Garlic-Saffron Dates with Pistachio Samneh Drizzle
Details
Sweet meets savory: garlicky saffron paste caresses caramelized dates for a luxe Qatari-inspired nibble.
Ingredients
For the garlic-saffron paste
For the dates
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic-Saffron Paste
Toast saffron threads lightly in a dry pan for 20 seconds, cover with 2 tbsp warm water and let bloom for 5 minutes, then mash or blend with the grated garlic, melted samneh, and a pinch of salt until a smooth, fragrant paste forms.
Warm and Spice the Dates
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the halved dates cut-side down and sprinkle with cardamom and lemon zest; cook 2–3 minutes until glossy and slightly softened, turning once.
Glaze with Garlic-Saffron
Spoon the garlic-saffron paste into the pan with the dates and gently toss to coat for 1 minute—the oil will carry the aroma without overwhelming the dates; remove from heat before the paste browns.
Toast the Pistachios
In a small dry skillet toast the pistachios over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until aromatic and slightly darkened, then chop roughly.
Assemble
Arrange the warm, glazed dates on a serving platter, drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice and honey if using, scatter the toasted pistachios and parsley leaves over the top.
Serve
Offer warm or at room temperature as a starter or meze; provide small forks or toothpicks and crusty flatbread to scoop up the garlicky, saffron-scented bite.
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