The Raw Truth

Banana-Date Pudding

This dish was originally inspired by a banana-date-tofu pudding at an Asian vegetarian restaurant in New York City. I never did get the recipe for

it, but this creation is an amazingly close raw version. (Pictured here)

SERVES 2 TO 4

6 dates, seeded

½ cup filtered water

Seeds from ¼ of a split vanilla bean

6 bananas, peeled and halved crosswise

Chopped walnuts, for garnish

Shredded coconut, for garnish

Place the dates in a small bowl, cover with the water, and soak for about 1 hour, or until soft. In a food processor, blend the dates, their soaking
water, and the vanilla seeds until smooth. Add the bananas and process until smooth. Spoon the pudding into individual serving bowls. Cover and
refrigerate for 2 hours, or until chilled. Garnish with the chopped walnuts and coconut and serve.