Stuffed dates were indeed a popular delicacy in ancient Rome, often served as a sweet appetizer or part of a dessert course. This dish typically involved dates filled with nuts, cheese, or spices and then drizzled with honey. Here’s a simple way to recreate this Roman treat:
Roman-Style Stuffed Dates Recipe
Ingredients
- 12-16 Medjool dates (pitted)
- 12-16 whole almonds or walnuts
- Fresh ricotta or goat cheese (optional)
- Honey (for drizzling)
- Ground black pepper (for garnish, optional)
- Salt (a pinch)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: Carefully slice each date lengthwise and remove the pits.
- Stuff with Nuts: Insert an almond or walnut into the center of each date. For a creamier version, add a small spoonful of ricotta or goat cheese along with the nut.
- Drizzle with Honey: Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter and drizzle with honey.
- Season Lightly: For authenticity, add a light sprinkle of ground black pepper and a tiny pinch of salt over the top to enhance the flavors.
This simple recipe captures the essence of ancient Roman cuisine, highlighting the contrast of sweet and savory with a rich, satisfying texture.
