Passover Recipe: Yemenite Charoset with Dates and Figs

Looking for a rich and meaningful charoset for your Passover Seder? This Yemeni-style charoset is deeply flavorful, naturally sweet, and infused with warm spices that give it a bold and traditional character.

Made with dates, dried figs, and a fragrant spice blend, this version captures the essence of classic Yemeni charoset while remaining simple and approachable. It’s thick, slightly textured, and perfect for spreading on matzah during the Seder.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup dates, chopped

• 1/4 cup dried figs, chopped

• 1/4 cup sweet red wine

• 1 tablespoon matzah meal

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon ground or freshly grated ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Pinch of ground cloves or black pepper

• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Blend the fruit
   Place the chopped dates and dried figs in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped and combined into a thick, paste-like mixture.

2. Add remaining ingredients
   Add the wine, matzah meal, sesame seeds, ginger, cinnamon, cloves or black pepper, and walnuts if using.

3. Mix
   Blend or stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick, rich, and slightly textured.

4. Adjust texture
   If needed, add a small splash of wine to loosen the mixture to your desired consistency.

5. Chill
   Transfer to a container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

6. Serve
   Serve chilled or at room temperature as part of your Passover Seder.

Tips for Best Results

• Use soft, high-quality dates for the best natural sweetness

• Adjust spices to taste depending on how bold you want the flavor

• For a more traditional version, keep the mixture thick and concentrated

• This charoset tastes even better after a few hours or overnight in the fridge

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside matzah during the Seder or as part of your Passover meal. It pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory dishes and adds a deeply traditional touch to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Yemeni-style charoset is rich, aromatic, and full of depth. The combination of dried fruit and warm spices creates a bold, memorable flavor that brings tradition and meaning to your Passover celebration.