Sesame Fig Nut Bites

This recipe began with a small rescue mission — a forgotten bag of dried figs sitting quietly in the fridge. It reminded me of how Mom used to make date balls, sometimes mixing them with nuts and biscuits or rolling them in coconut flakes. This version is a little different, born from the same instinct to turn what’s left behind into something good — a small bite to nibble on every day. You can play around with the mix: use any nuts or seeds you like, maybe even a hint of caraway, fennel, or dill for a deeper aroma. All you need to do is soak the figs in boiling water until they plump up, then blend them with your chosen mix. It’s simple, fragrant, and a little way of using what you have — which, to me, is the best kind of recipe.

Ingredients

• 300 g dried figs (about 2 cups when chopped)

• 120 g mixed nuts, roughly chopped (about 1 cup)

• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom — or any warm spice you prefer (cinnamon works beautifully)

• 1 tablespoon fennel, caraway, aniseed, or dill seeds (choose one — they add aroma and depth)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Toasted sesame seeds, for coating

Method

1. Place the figs in a heatproof bowl and cover with freshly boiled water.

Let them soak for 15 minutes, just until softened.

2. Drain well, then pulse the figs in a food processor to form a thick, sticky purée.

3. Transfer the fig mixture to a bowl. Add the chopped nuts, cardamom, the seed you chose, and olive oil.

Mix well with your hands — it helps the mixture come together.

4. Roll the mixture into 12 walnut-sized balls, or make them smaller or larger depending on what you prefer.

Coat each ball generously in sesame seeds.

5. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 days.