Our family recently had the pleasure of hosting a biblical feast. The foods served were accurate to ancient times; dried and fresh fruit, nuts, vegetables, lamb and, as a non-meat alternative, lentil stew. To top off the meal, and much to my delight, we even had dessert in the form of Charoset. I had never heard of this dish but it was one of the suggested items to prepare. According to the info I received it is a traditional Passover element and a “marvelous” Middle Eastern chutney for dipping bread. This chutney like paste represents the mortar for the bricks made by the Israelites during their captivity, and how God turned their suffering into sweetness. I love how many of these ingredients have health benefits as well. One of our young guests equated it to apple pie without the crust. Enjoy!



Charoset

3 apples (Golden Delicious or Granny Smith), cored, peeled, diced
1 1/2 c. finely chopped walnuts
¾ c. chopped dates (use kitchen scissors)
1/3 c. honey (add more if needed to coat completely)
¼ c. white grape juice
1 ½ tsp. cinnamon

Mix all ingredients together and enjoy with pita bread or alone. Keep refrigerated. This recipe makes approx.5- 6 cups.

by Lorrie of WitsEndDesign