Maraba Tamer (Date Jam)

I love North African flavors, they always offer enticing and exotic (for me) things that add a real sparkle to everyday foods. This little treat comes from: "From the Lands of Figs and Olives" by Habeeb Salloum and James Peters and it's the easiest jam you'll ever make.

• Ready In: 27 mins
• Yields: 1 quart

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups water
• 2  cups sugar
• 10  whole cloves
• 2  cups  finely chopped dates
• 3  tablespoons lemon juice
• 1⁄4 cup  blanched almond, finely chopped
• 1⁄4 cup walnuts, finely chopped

Directions

1. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
2. Add the sugar and cloves and, stirring all the time, bring the water to a boil again.
3. Stir in the dates and turn the heat to low; then cook for about 10 minutes or until a paste is formed.
4. Add the lemon juice, almonds and walnuts; then cook for a few more minutes.
5. Remove and allow to cool; then store in a glass jar.