If you find yourself driving along Highway 111, known as "The Date Highway," in the Coachella Valley, then you will see dozens of billboards advertising "world famous date shakes." Stop and get one. You won't be disappointed. If you're not planning on being on Highway 111, then here's a recipe you can make at home. Though some date shakes are made with date sugar or date crystals, I prefer actual dates. Since Medjools have a thinner skin and plumper flesh, they're ideal. Have a spoon nearby to scoop up any date pieces that fall to the bottom of your glass.
Makes 2 servings
10 Medjool dates, pitted and coarsely chopped
1 cup whole milk
2 cups vanilla ice cream
Place dates and milk in a blender; blend on high until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add ice cream and blend another 15 to 20 seconds on low so the ice cream doesn't melt too much. It should be thick and frothy.
Date and Banana Breakfast Shake
I love date shakes for breakfast but not with ice cream. In fact, by adding some protein powder, you can turn this into a great post-workout drink.
Makes 2 servings
10 Medjool dates, pitted and coarsely chopped
2 cups skim milk
1 large very ripe banana
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon, optional
6 tablespoons protein powder, optional
Place dates and milk in a blender and blend on high until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add banana, cinnamon and protein powder (if using). Blend another 15 to 20 seconds on high until thick and frothy.
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