Crafting the Perfect Date Shoniz for a Sweet Delight

In Iran, during the traditional Nowruz celebrations, alongside treats like chickpea cookies, Padrazi cookies, and sesame pastries, Date Shoniz can add an extra touch of sweetness to the festivities. Dates are also a staple food for those observing Ramadan.

Ingredients for Elegant Date Shoniz

• Dates: 16

• Tea biscuit (e.g., Digestive): ½ pack

• Walnuts: 6

• Boiling water: 1 cup

• Shredded coconut: As needed

• Food coloring: As desired

Instructions for Making Date Shoniz

1. Prepare the Dates:
   Pour boiling water over the dates and let them sit for 5–10 minutes until their skins soften. Drain and rinse the dates with cold water. Peel the dates with light pressure and remove the pits.

2. Process the Biscuits and Walnuts:
   Grind the biscuits into a fine powder using a food processor. If you don't have a food processor, place the biscuits in a sturdy plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin or meat tenderizer. Similarly, grind the walnuts in a food processor or crush them into a powder using a mortar and pestle.

3. Combine the Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered biscuits, ground walnuts, and pitted dates. Mix thoroughly. If mixing becomes difficult, use a handheld meat tenderizer to mash the mixture into a smooth paste.

4. Shape the Mixture:
   Wear gloves, lightly grease your hands, and take a portion of the mixture in your desired size. Roll it into a ball. Optionally, you can place a hazelnut or any nut of your choice in the center of each ball before shaping.

5. Color the Coconut Shreds:
   Divide the shredded coconut into several small bowls. Add food coloring to each bowl and mix well until the coconut is evenly colored. Lightly sprinkle a bit of water on the colored coconut to make it stick better. Roll the date balls in the colored coconut to coat them thoroughly.

6. Serve:
   Arrange the coated date balls on a serving platter and enjoy!

Key Tips for Making Date Shoniz

• Liquid food coloring works best for mixing with shredded coconut.

• If the dates are too dry, add a bit of tahini to the mixture.

• You can use any nuts you like in the filling or decoration.

• For a different twist, skip the shredded coconut and coat the balls in melted chocolate instead.

Enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends!