Mint Tea and Stuffed Dates
This Mint Tea and Stuffed Dates are served as a sign of welcome and because for many Arabic countries alcohol is forbidden. It is very refreshing though sweet. I like to put some mint in the glass as well as the pot and it is always poured from a great height into pretty glasses.
Serves 8
Preparation: 5 minutes
Cooking: 5 minutes
Ingredients
2 tablespoons Chinese green tea
1 large bunch fresh mint (spearmint is good)
5 cups (1.25l) boiling water
½-1 cup sugar cubes, according to taste
Method
- Swirl some boiling water around teapot and then drain. Drain the water from the pot. Place the tea in the pot; and half the mint. Pour over the boiling water and stand for 3 minutes.
- Stir in the sugar and stand for 3 more minutes. Pour some of the tea into a heatproof glass and then pour it back into the tea pot. Repeat this process and then pour into a small glass to taste. Add more sugar, if required.
- Place a sprig of mint in every glass and using a strainer, pour over tea. Do not overfill the glass.
 Â
Stuffed Dates
Dates can be served plain or stuffed with pieces of walnut, dried fig or almonds. Almonds make my favourite Stuffed Dates.
Serves 6-8
Preparation: 5 minutes
Ingredients
12 fresh dates
12 large or 24 small whole un-blanched almonds
Method
Cut a slit down one side of each date and poke in 1 whole almond or 2 small almonds so that one side is showing. Serve with Mint Tea or coffee.