Makes 1 1/2 cups

Look for Medjool dates at specialty food stores; they're softer than standard packaged dates.

===Ingredients===
  * 1/2 	cup unsalted shelled pistachios
  * 1/4 	cup sliced almonds
  * 1/4 	cup golden raisins
  * 12 	Medjool dates, pitted and finely chopped
  * 	Grated rind and juice of 1 orange
  * 1 	tablespoon port or sweet Passover wine
  * 1/4 	teaspoon ground cinnamon
	Salt and black pepper, to taste
	Cayenne pepper, to taste


===Technique===
  - Set the oven at 350 degrees. Spread the pistachios on a rimmed baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes. Add the almonds and toast 4 minutes more or until the nuts are slightly golden and aromatic. Cool to room temperature.
  - In a small bowl, combine the raisins and hot water to cover them; set aside to plump for 10 minutes. Drain.
  - n a food processor combine the pistachios and almonds. Pulse a few times to chop them coarsely. Add the raisins, dates, orange rind and juice, port or wine, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Pulse 3 more times, leaving the mixture chunky. Taste for seasoning and add more salt or black pepper, if you like. 



Source: Boston Globe April 16, 2008
Adapted from Michael Leviton

Tags: Passover