Showing posts with label Healthy living - recipes and ideas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Healthy living - recipes and ideas. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Date Bark - Easy recipe and hacks by morEwish

 


If you love stuffed dates, this Date Bark recipe is about to become your new favorite treat!

This recipe went viral last year, and after finally trying it myself, I completely understand why. If you're a fan of stuffed dates, this method is a huge time saver compared to stuffing each individual date and honestly, it's just as delicious (maybe even better!).

Instead of filling dates one by one, you flatten them into a base, spread a generous filling, top with melted chocolate, and slice into pieces. Quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying.

Today I made two flavors:

Peanut Butter Date Bark

Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Chocolate Date Bark (my current obsession!)

The best part? The possibilities are endless. You can make it with Nutella, almond butter, tahini, pretzels, sea salt, sunflower seeds, or even protein spreads for extra nutrition.

I personally filled mine with a generous layer of filling so every bite is rich and satisfying, but you can easily adjust the thickness to your liking.


Why You'll Love This Date Bark


• Much faster than stuffing individual dates
• Naturally sweetened with dates
• Perfect Ramadan or Eid treat
• Great for gifting or dessert platters
• Easily customizable with endless flavors
• Freezer friendly

Flavor Variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. Try these combinations:

• Nutella Date Bark

• Almond Butter & Sea Salt

• Tahini & Dark Chocolate

• Pretzel Crunch Chocolate Date Bark

• Sunflower Seed Butter Bark

• Coconut & White Chocolate

• Peanut Butter Banana Date Bark


Tips

✔ Use soft Medjool dates for easy flattening

✔ Press the dates very tightly together so the bark holds well

✔ Add a pinch of flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch

✔ Chill completely before cutting for clean pieces


Instagram Reel:



Ingredients

For the Date Base

20 Medjool dates

Tools: Parchment paper and Rolling Pin

Step 1: Prepare the Date Base

  1. Slit the Medjool dates and remove the pits.
  2. Place them close together on parchment paper, cavity side facing up. This helps hold more filling.
  3. Once arranged tightly, place another parchment paper on top.
  4. Using a rolling pin, press firmly to flatten the dates into a sticky sheet.

Set aside while preparing the filling.


Peanut Butter Date Bark

Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter (chunky or smooth)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons salted peanuts (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Microwave the peanut butter for 30 seconds until soft and spreadable.
  2. Spread a generous layer over the flattened date base.
  3. Place the tray in the refrigerator while preparing the chocolate topping.

Melt the Chocolate

  1. Add chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave safe bowl.
  2. Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.

Assemble

  1. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer.
  2. Spread evenly.
  3. Sprinkle chopped salted peanuts on top.
  4. Refrigerate for about 1 hour until fully set.
  5. Cut into squares or bark pieces.



Dubai Pistachio Kunafa Date Bark

If you love the viral Dubai chocolate pistachio dessert, this version is absolutely irresistible.

It combines crispy toasted kataifi, creamy pistachio spread, tahini, chocolate, and sweet dates.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 100 gm kataifi (shredded phyllo dough), chopped
  • 3–4 tablespoons pistachio cream
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • Melted chocolate (same as above)
  • Chopped pistachios for garnish
  • White chocolate + pistachio cream for drizzle

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped kataifi and roast until golden and crispy. (This step takes patience but is completely worth it!)
  3. Add pistachio cream and tahini and mix well until combined.

Assemble

  1. Spread the pistachio kunafa mixture over the flattened date base.
  2. Pour melted chocolate over the top.
  3. Garnish with chopped pistachios.
  4. Drizzle white chocolate mixed with pistachio cream for extra flavor.
  5. Refrigerate until set, then slice into pieces



Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Best served slightly chilled for clean slices


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this healthier?

Yes! Use dark chocolate and natural nut butter with no added sugar.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes. Just use vegan chocolate chips.

Can I make it without chocolate?

Absolutely! You can top with granola, coconut flakes, or yogurt drizzle.


Final Thoughts

This Date Bark recipe is the easiest way to enjoy stuffed dates without the extra work.

It’s naturally sweet, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for Ramadan, Eid, gatherings, or a quick sweet snack.

And honestly… once you make it once, you'll start experimenting with all kinds of flavors!

If you try it, don’t forget to tag @morewishcuisine on Instagram so I can see your creations!



Monday, September 15, 2025

Quick & Easy Alfredo Bake – A Perfect Weeknight Meal by morEwish


There are days when you just want dinner to be simple, comforting, and still a little wholesome. That’s when my Alfredo Bake comes to the rescue! It’s creamy, cheesy, packed with flavor, and comes together with just a few pantry staples. Best part? It’s a hit with the whole family, especially when I use egg noodles instead of regular pasta.


Why I Love This Recipe

This Alfredo Bake checks all the boxes:

✅ Quick and easy for weeknights

✅ Family-friendly comfort food

✅ Balanced with protein, veggies, and carbs

✅ Cozy and satisfying without hours in the kitchen

It’s definitely become one of those “save this for busy nights” kind of meals in our home. 💛



Notes & Tips

I use Ragu Alfredo Sauce because according to my research it’s vegetarian friendly, and generally considered fine for a halal diet, but please do your own research and use what you feel comfortable with.

This recipe is super adaptable! Add mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for variety.

Perfect for meal prep, leftovers heat up beautifully.


Blanch the broccoli 

Bring a pot of water to a boil.

Add broccoli florets and cook for 1–2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain well.


Instagram Reel:




Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken – 1 lb, cooked with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. (Shortcut: rotisserie chicken or leftovers work beautifully!)

Broccoli florets – about 1 cup, blanched

Egg noodles or pasta – 1 lb (16 oz), boiled (my family swears by egg noodles in this recipe!)

Ragu Alfredo Sauce – 2 jars (not sponsored, but I’d love to be! 🤍)

Chicken stock – 1 cup

Seasonings – 

  • ½ tsp black pepper, 
  • 1 tsp garlic powder, 
  • 1 tsp onion powder, 
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

Parmesan cheese – 1 cup (1/2 cup for mixing and 1/2 cup for topping)

Parsley – fresh or dried, for garnish


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the chicken – Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dice or shred it once cooked.

2. Blanch the broccoli – Just a quick dip in boiling water to keep it crisp and green.

3. Boil your noodles – Egg noodles are my personal favorite, but pasta works just fine.

4. Mix the sauce – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Alfredo sauce, chicken stock, and seasonings until smooth.

5. Combine everything – Add cooked chicken, broccoli, noodles, and ½ cup Parmesan into the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is coated.

6. Bake it – Transfer into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Parmesan over the top and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

7. Finish & enjoy – Garnish with parsley, serve warm, and watch it disappear!




Freezing & Make-Ahead Option

One of the best things about this Alfredo Bake is how well it holds up for meal prep:

To freeze before baking: Assemble everything in the casserole dish (including the sauce, chicken, broccoli, noodles, and Parmesan mixed in). Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top, then cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

To freeze after baking: Let the casserole cool completely. Portion into airtight containers or wrap the whole dish tightly. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Fridge option: If you just want to make it ahead, the unbaked casserole can sit in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking.


✨ So next time you’re short on time but still want a dinner that feels like a warm hug, give this Alfredo Bake a try. I’d love to know how you and your family like it tag me on Instagram at morEwish Cuisine if you make it!


Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Shrimp/Prawn Karhai recipe by morEwish

 


Some dishes are quick, effortless, and still leave your guests asking, “What’s your secret?” This Shrimp Karhai is exactly that — a fusion of bold coastal flavors, classic karhai essence, and a smooth creamy finish that makes it perfect for a weeknight treat or a weekend indulgence. The real game-changer? The premium-quality spices from The Spice Lane, each one transforming simple ingredients into a symphony of flavor.

Tips & Tricks


Avoid overcooking the shrimp — they only need a few minutes.

Use Kashmiri chili for vibrant color without too much heat.

Make sure yogurt is at room temperature to prevent curdling.

Wait for the oil to separate before adding shrimp — it's the sign of a perfectly cooked masala.

The cream is optional, but it adds a luxurious touch to the dish.


About The Spice Lane

This recipe is part of a flavorful series I’m creating in collaboration with The Spice Lane — a women-owned brand that delivers purity, boldness, and unbeatable aroma in every packet. Whether it’s their Kashmiri Lal Mirch or Zeera Powder, every spice brings your dish to life.


A Karhai That Comes Together in Moments

Start by heating a generous glug of oil in your pan. No onions here — just go straight in with chopped tomatoes, green chilies, ginger, and garlic paste. Let this mixture sizzle and soften.

Once the raw smell is gone, stir in all the seasoning: The Spice Lane’s cumin, turmeric, red chili powders (both regular and Kashmiri), coriander powder, and salt. Splash in a little water to help the spices bloom without burning, then cover and let everything simmer.

Cook this mixture on a low flame, patiently, until the tomatoes break down completely and you see oil separating on top — that’s when you know it’s ready.

Now, it’s time to add the shrimp. Gently fold them in and increase the flame to medium. Prawns cook fast — you want them just curled and opaque.

Lower the heat again and add a few tablespoons of whisked yogurt. Let it cook for another minute or two, just until the yogurt settles into the masala and everything looks glossy and rich.

For garnish, I tossed in fresh chopped green chilies and a handful of cilantro. And — I was feeling a little fancy — so I added a splash of whipping cream at the end for that luxurious finish.


Instagram Reel:



Ingredients

1 lb prawns/shrimp (cleaned & deveined)
3 medium tomatoes (blended or chopped)
3-4 green chillies (slit or chopped)
2-3 tbsp whisked yogurt
4 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 tsp ginger paste
1 tsp garlic paste
Spices (all from The Spice Lane):
  • 1 tsp Zeera Powder (Cumin Powder)
  • 1 tsp Kashmiri Lal Mirch (Kashmiri Red Chili Powder)
  • ½ tsp Lal Mirch (Red Chili Powder) or to taste
  • ½ tsp Haldi Powder (Turmeric)
  • 1 tsp Dhania Powder (Coriander Powder)
1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
4-5 tbsp cooking oil



Serving Suggestions


Serve this sizzling karhai straight from the pan with warm naan or paratha. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a fragrant zeera rice. It’s a crowd-pleaser either way.

This recipe is part of my ongoing series with The Spice Lane — a brand that’s as obsessed with flavor as I am. Their masalas bring every recipe to life.
Order your spice collection today at https://thespicelane.com/ and don’t forget to follow them on Instagram @the.spice.lane for recipes, product drops, and cooking inspiration!


Monday, February 24, 2025

Dubai Viral Chocolate Dates Recipe (Easy Iftar Dessert with Pistachio & Kunafa) recipe by morEwish

Dubai viral chocolate stuffed dates with pistachio and kunafa for Ramadan iftar
 

Updated on February 2026

Ramadan is a time of reflection, spirituality, and of course, delicious food shared with loved ones. Every year, I look forward to trying something new for my Iftar table, and this time, the viral chocolate flavored dates from Dubai have caught my attention! There’s something magical about combining tradition with innovation, and these dates do just that melding the natural sweetness of dates with a crispy, nutty filling and a luxurious chocolate coating.


Dubai viral chocolate stuffed dates with pistachio and kunafa for Ramadan iftar


Why Dubai Chocolate Dates Went Viral

At first, I wasn’t sure if I’d get hooked on this flavor, but after trying them, I knew they had to be part of my filled dates platter for Iftar. The crunch from the Kataifi, the creamy pistachio center, and the smooth chocolate shell create an irresistible combination. If you’re looking for a show stopping treat that’s easy to make and bound to impress, this is it!


Dubai viral chocolate stuffed dates with pistachio and kunafa for Ramadan iftar

Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Dates:

Choose the Right Dates – Medjool dates work best because they’re plump, soft, and naturally sweet.

Don’t Skip Chilling – Refrigerating the stuffed dates before dipping helps keep the filling intact and prevents mess.

Use Quality Chocolate – Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich and balanced flavor.

Customize the Filling – Swap pistachio cream with almond or hazelnut spread for a different flavor twist.

Garnish Creatively – Sprinkle shredded Kataifi, crushed pistachios, or edible gold dust for an elegant touch.


Instagram Reel:


Ingredients You’ll Need:


Dates (preferably Medjool dates)
1 tbsp butter
100 gm Kataifi pastry, finely chopped
3-4 tbsp pistachio cream
1 tsp tahini
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate
1 tsp coconut oil
Chopped pistachios for garnish

How to Make Chocolate Stuffed Dates (Step-by-Step):


1. Prepare the Dates – Wash and pat dry the dates. Make a slit and remove the pit.

2. Prepare the Filling – In a pan, melt the butter and add finely chopped Kataifi pastry. Cook until golden brown, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Transfer to a bowl and mix in pistachio cream and tahini. Let it cool completely.

3. Stuff the Dates – Take a spoonful of the cooled Kataifi pistachio filling and fill the cavity of each date. Place the filled dates in the fridge to firm up. Chilling them makes them easier to handle when dipping in chocolate.

4. Melt the Chocolate – In a bowl, combine chocolate chips or chopped chocolate with coconut oil. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, and continue microwaving in 10-second intervals until smooth.

5. Coat the Dates – Remove the dates from the fridge. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each date into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.

6. Garnish and Set – Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top before the chocolate hardens. Keep them in the fridge until ready to serve.


Dubai viral chocolate stuffed dates with pistachio and kunafa for Ramadan iftar


Frequently Asked Questions


Can I make chocolate dates ahead of time?
Yes! These dates store well in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them perfect for Ramadan prep.

Can I skip kunafa?
Absolutely. You can replace it with crushed biscuits, nuts, or coconut.

Are chocolate dates healthy?
Dates are naturally sweet and nutrient rich, making them a better dessert option when enjoyed in moderation.

If you love easy Dubai Chocolate desserts, you’ll also enjoy my




These chocolate flavored dates are not just a viral sensation but a delightful addition to your Iftar spread. Whether you serve them as a treat for your family or gift them to loved ones, they’re bound to impress. Give them a try this Ramadan and enjoy a bite of this Middle Eastern-inspired indulgence!

Let me know if you get hooked on this flavor too! 
#Alhumdulilah #morEwish #morEwishCuisine



Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Make-Ahead Garlic Herb Chicken and Greek-Style Chicken recipe by morEwish


Ramadan Meal Prep: Make-Ahead Garlic Herb Chicken and Greek-Style Chicken

Ramadan is just around the corner, and with shorter fasts this year, I’m getting a head start on meal prep to keep things simple yet delicious. These two chicken recipes – Garlic Herb Chicken and Greek-Style Chicken – are versatile, flavorful, and perfect for a variety of meals throughout the month. Whether you pair them with salad, steamed rice, daal chawal, or use them in sandwiches and wraps, these recipes will make your suhoor and iftar effortless and satisfying.


Why These Recipes Work

The beauty of these recipes lies in their simplicity and flexibility. You can prep them in advance, freeze them, and cook them straight from the freezer. For these recipes, I’m collaborating with Golden Steer Italian Herb Seasoning – Table 40. This seasoning blend is crafted from whole, garden-fresh dried herbs combined with granulated tomato powder, bringing bold flavors to your cooking.

You can even grab 10% off your purchase of the seasonin with my code! And let’s not forget, I’m using Golden Steer’s beautiful Golden Spoon to make the meal prep feel extra special.



Meal Prep Tips

Freezer-Friendly: Place the marinated chicken in a ziplock bag, flatten it, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Cooking Options: Steam, air-fry, or bake. I steamed the chicken today, which kept it tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestions: My family loves to drizzle the extra cooking juices over salad, but these recipes work beautifully in any dish you like.

Instagram Reel:


Garlic Herb Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs skinless chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp Golden Steer Italian Herb Seasoning (or substitute with:
    • 1 Tbsp minced fresh oregano
    • 1 Tbsp minced fresh rosemary
    • 2 tsp minced fresh thyme)
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic (extra flavor is always a win!)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

Directions:

1. In a ziplock bag, combine the chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

2. Seal the bag and mix everything well to coat the chicken evenly.

3. Lay the bag flat in the freezer, or refrigerate for at least 2 hours if cooking immediately.

4. To cook: Steam, bake, or air-fry. I steam-cooked the chicken in a heated pan, covering and simmering until tender. Increase the heat to evaporate excess water, leaving a little for added flavor.


Greek-Style Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 4 Tbsp Greek yogurt
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 Tbsp Golden Steer Italian Herb Seasoning (or substitute with:
    • 2 tsp oregano
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (for an extra kick!)
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

Directions:

1. In a ziplock bag, combine the chicken, olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt.

2. Seal and mix to coat the chicken evenly.

3. Lay the bag flat in the freezer, or marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

4. To cook: Steam, bake, or air-fry. For today’s meal, I steamed the chicken until tender and kept a bit of the broth to drizzle over my salad.



These recipes are not just quick and easy, but they’re packed with flavor and ideal for Ramadan meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a crowd for iftar or just preparing a simple suhoor, these chicken dishes will make your life easier and tastier this Ramadan.

Happy prepping!