Hot Date!: Sweet & Savory Recipes Celebrating the Date, from Party Food to Everyday Feasts
Overall Ranking: 2) Solid Swallow
Backgrounder: I am not sure where I first heard of this or why I was so drawn to it, but my quest for Hot Date! began, as all great quests do, with a pilgrimage. It was a random Saturday, and I was checking out all the cookbook specific bookstores in NYC and just enjoying the vibe. I walked in without any purpose, pulling out any cookbook that caught my eye.
Hot Date! wouldn't be available for purchase on Amazon for at several days, so I am unsure why but I asked if they had it. To my amazement, and the amazement of the owner, they did.
I walked out clutching Hot Date!, ready to embark on a date-filled culinary adventure. As I paid, the owner, a seasoned cookbook aficionado, gave my purchase a knowing look. "An interesting concept," he remarked, a hint of intrigue in his voice. "A major publisher taking a chance on a niche ingredient cookbook by an author I don't recognize. I'm curious to see how this plays out." Her words echoed in my mind as I headed home, a little seed of anticipation mixed with a touch of "will this be a hidden gem or a culinary flop?" Only time (and a lot of sticky, delicious dates) would tell.
But what even is Hot Date!?
Hot Date! is the brainchild of Yasmin Khan, a British-Pakistani cookbook author and passionate advocate for food as a bridge between cultures. Khan's work goes beyond sharing recipes; she uses food as a lens through which to explore history, culture, and the stories of the people she meets on her travels. Her previous cookbooks, Zaitoun and Ripe, explored the cuisines of Palestine and the Eastern Mediterranean, respectively, weaving together personal narratives, historical context, and vibrant recipes. With Hot Date!, Khan turns her attention to a seemingly humble ingredient – the date – revealing its surprising versatility and cultural significance across the globe. It is a celebration of a fruit that has nourished communities for centuries.
Khan's inspiration for Hot Date! stems from her own experiences traveling and cooking in regions where dates are a staple ingredient. She's fascinated by the date's ability to transcend cultural boundaries, appearing in both sweet and savory dishes from the Middle East to North Africa and beyond. She sees the date not just as a delicious fruit, but as a symbol of hospitality, community, and shared culinary heritage. Through her recipes and stories, Khan aims to introduce readers to the diverse world of date-based cuisine, showcasing its potential beyond the familiar Medjool and highlighting the unique ways different cultures use this versatile ingredient. She's not just teaching us how to cook with dates; she's inviting us to explore their rich history and cultural significance, fostering a deeper appreciation for this often-overlooked fruit.
Before you start cooking/baking
Special Equipment Needed
One of the most appealing aspects of Hot Date! is its accessibility. You won't need to invest in any fancy, specialized equipment to recreate these date-centric delights. Alkhatib keeps things refreshingly simple, relying on tools most home cooks already have in their kitchens. No need for a tagine, a mortar and pestle the size of your head, or a fancy date pitter (though, admittedly, that does sound kind of cool). Just your basic pots, pans, knives, and mixing bowls will do the trick. This makes the book incredibly approachable, encouraging you to jump right in and start experimenting with dates without feeling like you need to overhaul your entire kitchen. It's a welcome relief in a world of increasingly specialized kitchen gadgets.
The only issue you may run into is in the soups they have you use an immersion blender, but if you have a blender, you just use that. If you don't have a blender, we can't be friends. Just get one.
Potential Challenges You May Run Into:
This book is about exploration. It's about venturing beyond your comfort zone and discovering the incredible versatility of dates. And that means you're going to encounter some ingredients you might not find in your average grocery store. Think of it as a culinary treasure hunt! Yes, you might need to make a trip to a specialty shop, or perhaps click "add to cart" a few times on your favorite online purveyor of fine foods. But that's part of the adventure! Sourcing these unique ingredients isn't just a chore; it's an opportunity to expand your culinary horizons and discover new flavors. It's a chance to connect with the global tapestry of food and appreciate the diverse ingredients that make date-based cuisine so exciting. So, embrace the challenge, put on your explorer's hat, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey of ingredient discovery.
Alkhatib understands that venturing into the world of date-centric cuisine might involve encountering some unfamiliar ingredients. That's why she's thoughtfully included an entire chapter dedicated to getting acquainted with the more specialized items you'll find throughout the book. Think of it as your handy glossary, a culinary Rosetta Stone that decodes the mysteries of ingredients like medjool dates (obviously!), barberries, or rosewater. So, if you stumble upon a recipe like the Bulgur Majadarra and find yourself wondering, "What on earth is that?", you can simply flip to this helpful chapter and quickly get up to speed. It's a brilliant way to demystify the ingredients and make the recipes feel less intimidating.
Alkhatib goes above and beyond by not only educating us on the many fascinating varietals of dates, but also providing valuable guidance on where to find them. She understands that sourcing these ingredients can sometimes be a challenge, so she thoughtfully includes a list of recommended suppliers. It's a huge help, especially for those of us who don't live near a bustling Middle Eastern market or a well-stocked specialty food store. She essentially gives you a roadmap to date-sourcing success, taking the guesswork out of the equation. I was fortunate that my local ShopRite had all the dates I needed. If you aren't as lucky, you can turn to page 260 for guidance. Here are some examples in the author's own words:
- Dates
- Bateel
- "Dubai-based fancy date retailer with some speicalties and innovatave or unusual date products: jams, mustards, vinegars, and roasted date seed coffee."
- Persian Basket
- "For saffron, Iranian flavors, dried fruit, and Mazafati dates"
- Sam Cobb Farms
- "Home of the Black Gold Date, a unique varietal."
- Date Lady
- "Source of quality date syrup and date sugar."
- Spices, Oils, and Other Things
- SOS Chefs
- "A magical store in NYC that has every type of spice you can imagine, one million types of pepper and salt, rare and hard to find cheffy ingredients."
- Diaspora Co
- "Turmeric, cumin, cardamom, ginger. Fair Trade and equitable spices, some of the most potent and delicious I have found."
- Canaan Palestine
- "Olive oil from landrace varietals; za'atar, freekah, and more, grown in Palestine on artisanal family farms"
- Ziyad Brand
- "Stocked in grocery stores nationwide, with a good range of Middle Eastern ingredients."
Please note that these are recommended by the author, Rawaan Alkhatib, not Books to Bowls. But, let's be clear: you absolutely do not have to shop from Alkhatib's recommended suppliers to enjoy the recipes in Hot Date! Most of the ingredients, even the more specialized ones, can likely be found at well-stocked grocery stores, specialty shops, or online retailers. However, if you can shop from her curated list, I highly recommend it. It's like getting a peek under the hood of a professional chef's kitchen. These are the suppliers she trusts, the sources she relies on for the highest quality ingredients. It's a rare and valuable glimpse into the world of a culinary expert, and it's an opportunity to experience the same ingredients that Alkhatib uses in her own cooking. Think of it as a masterclass in ingredient sourcing, a chance to elevate your dishes with the very best the culinary world has to offer. It's not essential, but it's definitely a treat.
Recipe Breakdown
- 10% Dependents*, 11 recipes
- 13% Breakfast, 13 recipes
- 19% Mains, 20 recipes
- 15% Soups and Sides, 15 recipes
- 24% Sweets, 25 recipes
- 15% Party Food, 15 recipes
- 4% Drinks, 4 recipes
Ingredient Affordability:
When it comes to your wallet, Hot Date! lands somewhere in the middle. Many of the base ingredients, like lentils and bulgur, are incredibly budget-friendly, often costing only a dollar or two per pound. It's the dates themselves that tend to bump up the overall price of the dishes. While not outrageously expensive, the cost of dates can add up, pushing the average meal cost closer to the norm. As I continue exploring the recipes, I suspect that dishes calling for more regional or unique date varieties might nudge the price point even higher. For now, however, comparing average ingredient costs across various cookbooks, Hot Date! generally hovers near the average. It's not the cheapest cookbook in your collection, but it's also not going to require you to take out a second mortgage
Here's a breakdown:
General BREAKFAST average total cost: $6.70
General DINNER/LUNCH average total: $14.41
Why I Love it/Like It/Pass on It/Avoid It:
Overall, I'm incredibly enthusiastic about Hot Date! It's a delightful and inspiring cookbook that has opened my eyes to the incredible versatility of dates. Alkhatib's passion for this ingredient shines through in every recipe, and her writing is warm, engaging, and informative. The book is beautifully photographed, and illustrated making each dish look as enticing as it tastes. While the ingredient list can be a bit daunting at times, the payoff is well worth the effort. The recipes are generally well-written and easy to follow, and the inclusion of a helpful ingredient glossary is a huge plus. It's a cookbook that encourages exploration and experimentation, inviting you to discover new flavors and expand your culinary horizons.
While some recipes could benefit from a bit more "oomph" (look at my feedback on the recipes I have tried for more context), the vast majority are delicious and satisfying. The book's organization makes it easy to find what you're looking for, and the detailed information on date varietals and sourcing is invaluable. It's a cookbook that I know I'll be cooking from for years to come, and I can't wait to continue exploring its pages and discovering new date-infused delights. If you're looking for a cookbook that's both informative and inspiring, one that will introduce you to a world of flavor you never knew existed, then Hot Date! is a must-have for your collection. It's a celebration of dates, a culinary adventure, and a testament to the power of a single ingredient to transform the way we cook and eat.
Strengths:
- Inspiring and Educational: Hot Date! is a fabulous culinary education on the versatility and cultural significance of dates. It inspires creativity and encourages exploration in the kitchen.
- Beautiful Photography: The stunning photography makes each dish look incredibly appealing, motivating you to try new recipes.
- Accessible Approach: Despite featuring some unique ingredients, the recipes are generally easy to follow and don't require specialized equipment. The ingredient glossary and sourcing information are invaluable.
- Thoughtful Organization: The book's structure makes it easy to find recipes for different occasions, from breakfast to party snacks.
- Focus on a Single Ingredient: The deep dive into dates allows for a comprehensive exploration of their culinary potential, showcasing their versatility in both sweet and savory dishes.
- Global Inspiration: The recipes draw inspiration from various cuisines, offering a diverse range of flavors and culinary traditions.
Weaknesses:
- Ingredient Sourcing: While the author provides sourcing information, some ingredients may be difficult to find in certain areas, requiring trips to specialty stores or online orders.
- Recipe Fine-tuning: While most recipes are delicious, some could benefit from a little more "oomph" in terms of flavor intensity (take a look at the Bulgur MAjadara recipe below.). They offer a great base but could be improved with some tweaking.
- Potential Cost: The cost of some specialized ingredients, particularly unique date varieties, could be a factor for budget-conscious cooks.
- Page Number Placement: Definitely personal preference, but its impossible to ignore. The page numbers are located near the book's spine, making it frustrating to quickly flip between recipes or refer to the ingredient glossary.
Overall, I would rank Hot Date! as a 2) Solid Swallow. Hot Date! is a solid choice for adventurous eaters and those who enjoy a touch of earthy sweetness in their meals. If you're someone who likes to experiment in the kitchen and explore new flavor profiles, this cookbook offers a wealth of inspiration. The focus on dates provides a unique lens through which to view both familiar and unfamiliar dishes. The earthy sweetness of dates adds a subtle complexity that can elevate everyday meals and create truly memorable culinary experiences. It's a good pick for cooks who are willing to source some potentially new ingredients and are looking for a fresh perspective on a versatile ingredient. While it might not be an essential cookbook for every kitchen shelf, it's definitely worth exploring. At the very least, borrow it from a friend or snag it from the library. It's a culinary journey that's sure to spark some new ideas and broaden your appreciation for the humble date
Recipes that wowed or grossed me out: (with pictures)
Bulgur Majudarra
The Bulgur Majauarra was my first foray into the main dishes of Hot Date!, and it was a delightful surprise. I initially raised an eyebrow at the seemingly simple seasoning of just cumin, but Alkhatib proved me wrong. This dish is a testament to the power of a few well-chosen ingredients. The sweetness of the dates, the savory depth of the caramelized onions (which, admittedly, took me nearly 40 minutes to achieve that perfect golden-brown hue – keep a close eye on those onions!), the earthy warmth of the cumin, and the hearty texture of the bulgur come together in a harmonious blend of flavors that truly impressed me. This recipe makes a lot of food – easily enough for four people. It's surprisingly easy to prepare, just be sure to give those onions the attention they deserve. I was surprised that cumin was the only seasoning, but it works incredibly well, tying together the earthy nuttiness of the lentils and bulgur and adding a bright pop of flavor. The arugula added a refreshing element, though the texture felt a little out of place; it's good with or without it.
And the dates? They're the star of the show. That perfect bite – lentils, bulgur, onion, and date – is truly something special. The sweet and savory combination just works. However, the proportions as written don't quite deliver that perfect bite often enough. Increasing the onion and date quantities would make this dish truly exceptional, but I can also see how that would increase the cost, especially with the dates. My solution? I'll likely reduce the amount of lentils and bulgur in future iterations and serve this as a side dish instead of a main course. That would be incredible. One thing to note: you might have a bit of a treasure hunt on your hands trying to find the bulgur. It was available at my local grocery store, but it took some searching. Be prepared to explore the aisles a bit!
⏰ Total Time: 45 minutes
💰 Total cost: ~$14.00
🍳Total Dirty Dishes: 9
Main Ingredients 🥚
Onion
Bulgur
Lentils
Arugula
Dates
This is a dish I would absolutely make again. It's relatively easy to prepare, it's packed with flavor, and it's a great way to introduce friends to the magic of date-based cuisine. It's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or any occasion where you want to share something a little different and a lot delicious. I can already picture serving this to friends, watching their faces light up with surprise at the unexpected flavor combinations. It's a crowd-pleaser, a conversation starter, and a delicious way to showcase the versatility of dates.
Moroccan Breakfast Smoothies
The Moroccan Breakfast Smoothies were a revelation. Almond-forward, creamy, and perfectly sweet, they're a delightful way to kickstart the day. I didn't even know I could eat two avocados in one sitting, but this smoothie proved me wrong – and I enjoyed every single bite. It's a surprisingly satisfying breakfast, but it isn't meant to be chugged. Its decand enough that eating this too quickly may not be enjoyable, but eaten slowly I think it shines as a morning pick-me-up. But my mind is far from breakfast as it is already racing with dessert possibilities. I'm not quite sure what form it will take, but I know this smoothie has dessert potential, and when I unlock that secret, it's game over. Seriously, this Moroccan Avocado Smoothie recipe from Hot Date! is a must-try. It's quick, easy (just chop some dates and avocados, then blend!), and a fantastic way to use up those avocados that are just begging to be eaten. Think of it as a thick, creamy, almond-infused breakfast treat. The level of sweetness is spot-on, and as I mentioned, my brain is buzzing with dessert ideas. This one got me so excited to keep exploring Hot Date! after these two successful recipes. My expectations are officially high for the rest of the cookbook.
⏰ Total Time: 5 minutes
💰 Total cost: ~$5.00
🍳Total Dirty Dishes: 3
Ingredients 🥚
Avocado
Dates
Ice
Almond Milk
Almond Meal/Almond Essence
Double Ginger Carrot Soup
The Double Ginger Carrot Soup from Hot Date! paired with a date grilled cheese? Immense. Absolutely immaculate. This is a culinary power couple, a symphony of flavors that just works. The soup itself is incredibly easy to throw together, surprisingly filling, and delivers a complex savory experience that belies its simplicity. It's got that deeply earthy, smooth, and undeniably carrot-forward taste that's both comforting and satisfying. On its own, it's good. But with a few additions – a sprinkle of seeds for crunch, a dollop of yogurt for tang, a scattering of cilantro for freshness – it elevates to very good.
⏰ Total Time: 40 minutes
💰 Total cost: ~$12.00
🍳Total Dirty Dishes: 4
Ingredients 🥚
Leek
Ginger
Carrot
Dates
Garlic
Cinnoman
Coconut mill
Stock
Dependent: Date & Kashkaval Grilled Cheese
But the real magic happens when you introduce the Date & Kashkaval Grilled Cheese. Dipping that sweet, cheesy goodness into the savory soup? That's where the "awesome" kicks in. The sweetness from the grilled cheese cuts through the earthiness of the soup, creating a delightful contrast that's both unexpected and utterly delicious. It's a textural and flavor experience that I'm completely hooked on. I'm a sucker for this pairing. It's the kind of meal that makes you feel like you've created something truly special, even though it's deceptively simple to prepare.
⏰ Total Time: 5 minutes
💰 Total cost: ~$5.00
🍳Total Dirty Dishes: 5
Ingredients 🥚
Cheese
Bread
Butter
Dates
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