Date Syrup

1. Bring the water to a boil, and pour it over the dates in a heat-proof bowl.

2. Let the dates soak for around half an hour.

3. Use a blender to purée the date-water mixture.

4. Transfer the mixture to a pot, and simmer over medium heat for 1 hour.

5. Remove the mixture from the heat and allow to cool to room temperature.

6. Strain the mixture through several layers of cheesecloth or a nut milk bag.

7. Return the strained liquid to a pot, and simmer until it reaches your desired syrup consistency. Keep in mind that it will thicken after cooling—if you have a thermometer, you can use it to monitor the sugar concentration, aiming for somewhere between 104–113°C (219–235°F).

8. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.