*Tu Bishvat is a Jewish minor holiday, usually falling around January. I always liked when this holiday came around because my classmates brought dried fruits and nuts to class. Finally a holiday with a healthy theme! I always gained a couple pounds during Hannukah when you’re supposed to eat donuts. Consider this recipe kosher for Tu Bishvat.
Ingredients
1 chicken (3-4 lbs), quartered
salt, pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
2 onions, chopped
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
24 dates
Directions
1) Heat the oil in a pan. Add the onions, cinnamon, ginger, cilantro, salt and pepper. Saute for 3 minutes.
2) Add the chicken to the pot and cook for 3 minutes.
3) Add enough water to cover the chicken pieces. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
4) When chicken is done, remove from the pan and set aside.
5) Skim any fat off the sauce and add salt as needed.
6) Add dates to the sauce and let simmer 10 to 15 minutes.
7) Return chicken to the pan and heat through.
*Serve over couscous or rice.
*Recipe by Shelley Neese, vice president of The Jerusalem Connection. Click here for her articles and videos.
