Dates Poached in Spiced Wine Spooned over Fresh Ricotta

Author Notes

I like not-too-sweet Italian-style desserts. Several years ago, I was at a dinner party in Cambridge where the host made this wonderful dessert of poached dates with Apican spices served over vanilla ice cream. I was besotted. Apician dates are often stuffed with almonds and I've seen many different spice combinations used, but this is the combo I prefer. I also like something a bit lighter than ice cream, and so fresh ricotta has become the perfect vehicle. (Note: boyfriend seems to have eaten the whole batch already, scoundrel!) This makes what I might call a European sized serving of dessert -- just enough little bit of sweetness to satisfy you at the end of a meal =) - student epicure —student epicure

Test Kitchen Notes

This recipe from student epicure packs a deep, rich and complex flavor in a light but elegant dessert. Star anise, cinnamon, fennel and black peppercorns flavor the heavenly wine syrup and poached dates, to be served over creamy but not-too-rich ricotta. This recipe is most likely intended for soft dates like the Medjool variety. I used semisoft Deglet Noor, which took significantly longer to cook, and needed to have their rough, papery skins removed after poaching. I'll be making it again, taking care to use Medjool dates. It is a winning combination and a satisfying end to a fine meal. - AppleAnnie —AppleAnnie