Layers of chocolate, crunchy nuts and date caramel evoke Middle Eastern luxury. Perfectly elegant, fusion-style treats.
# Components:
→ Chocolate Base
01 - 7 ounces premium dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
02 - 3.5 ounces milk chocolate, chopped
03 - 2.8 ounces unsalted butter
04 - 2.7 fluid ounces heavy cream
→ Crunch Layer
05 - 2.8 ounces crushed pistachios
06 - 2.1 ounces crushed digestive biscuits
07 - 1.1 ounces toasted coconut flakes
→ Spiced Date Caramel
08 - 4.2 ounces Medjool dates, pitted
09 - 2.0 fluid ounces water
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
11 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
→ Garnish
12 - Edible gold leaf (optional)
13 - 2 tablespoons chopped dried rose petals
14 - Extra chopped pistachios
# Method:
01 - Combine dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and unsalted butter in a heatproof bowl. Melt gently over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in heavy cream. Allow to cool slightly.
02 - Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. Distribute the chocolate mixture evenly into the pan.
03 - Scatter crushed pistachios, digestive biscuits, and coconut flakes over the chocolate base. Press gently with a spatula to embed the layer.
04 - Simmer dates, water, cardamom, and salt in a small saucepan over low heat until dates soften and water is mostly absorbed, about 5 minutes. Puree until completely smooth using a blender or immersion blender.
05 - Drop spoonfuls or swirl the caramel over the crunchy chocolate base. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
06 - Unmold and cut into bars or squares. Top with edible gold leaf, dried rose petals, and additional pistachios just before serving.
