Date Syrup

Ingredients

• 1 cup pitted dates, Medjool preferred, or any soft variety
• 1 cup water, adjust as needed for consistency
• ½ tsp lemon juice, optional, for brightness and preservationSkip
• 1 pinch salt, optional, enhances flavorSkip
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract, optional, for depthSkip

Steps

1. 1.If your dates are dry, soak them in hot water for 10–15 minutes, then drain.
2. 2.Put 1 cup pitted dates and 1 cup water in a blender or food processor, with ½ tsp lemon juice, 1 pinch salt and ¼ tsp vanilla if using.
3. 3.Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Add more water a tablespoon at a time if it's too thick.
4. 4.Optional: simmer the blended mixture in a saucepan on low for 10–15 minutes until thickened and glossy, stirring now and then.
5. 5.Let cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.