You'll Need:

CAKE: 5 C. + 1 T. unsweetened apple juice
1 C. chopped dates (Medjool are good)
pinch of salt
2 C. uncooked whole-grain couscous
finely grated zest of one lemon (or to taste)

TOPPING:
3/4 C. unsweetened apple juice
1/4 C. lemon juice
2 T. maple syrup
1 T. kudzu or arrowroot powder dissolved in 1 T. apple juice

Procedure:

In a large saucepan, heat apple juice to boiling. Add dates and salt. Cover, reduce heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes. While dates are simmering, heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium- low heat. Add couscous and cook 5-10 minutes, until lightly toasted. Stir as necessary. Gradually add toasted couscous to simmering apple juice and dates, stirring constantly. Cook, stirring, 3 to 4 minutes, until mixture thickens. Stir in lemon zest and remove from heat. Rinse a 10-inch round or 9-inch square glass or ceramic baking pan with water. Shake out excess water, do not dry. Spread couscous mixture evenly in pan. Set aside to cool. TOPPING: In a small saucepan, whisk apple juice and maple syrup. Heat just to simmer and add dissolved kudzu, whisking constantly. Cook briefly, whisking until thick. Spread on cooled couscous.

Category: Cakes