3/4 c. chopped nuts
1 c. chopped dates
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 c. shortening
3/4 c. boiling water
2 eggs
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 c. sugar
1 1/2 c. sifted all purpose flour

Combine nuts, dates, soda and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the shortening and boiling water. Allow this mixture to stand for 15 minutes. Stir to blend, beat the eggs slightly, add the vanilla. Stir in the sugar and the sifted flour. Add to date mixture. Do not over mix. Place in greased 9 x 5 x 3′ loaf pan. Bake fo 1 hour at 350 degrees. When done, toothpick inserted in the center wil come out clean. Cool before removing. Loosen sides with a spatula. For perfect slicing, allow the load fo cool several hours. -Fran Pollack