Date Cilantro Chutney

This sweet and a little bit spicy chutney is a great side relish to a cheese plate of Manchego, aged goat cheese and Asiago. Spread a little on a baguette slice and top with a thin slice of cheese.

Ingredients

• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 bunch cilantro
• 12 soft dates, like Medjool
• 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 limes
• 1/2 tsp Asian chile sauce (rooster or Siracha sauce)

Directions

Place the coconut in a bowl and cover with the 1/4 cup water. Let soak for 30 minutes.

In a food processor fitted with a metal blade, place the 2 garlic cloves. Pulse to mince the garlic fine. Remove all leaves from the bunch of cilantro and add to the garlic. Mince again.

Add the dates and the coconut and blend until a paste. Juice the 2 limes and add the juice along with the chile sauce. Blend again. Taste for spicyness and add more chile paste if desired.

Keep refrigerated, but serve at room temperature. 

Makes about 1 cup.

Recipe by Jane O’Riordan