From snacks to meals: 5 ways dried apricots enhance recipes
What's the story
Dried apricots are a secret weapon in the kitchen, adding a burst of flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. Packed with nutrients and fiber, they're a healthy choice for elevating meals or snacks. Discover five creative ways to use dried apricots in your cooking, highlighting their versatility in vegan recipes.
Snack
Apricot energy balls
Turn dried apricots into a healthy and delicious snack by creating apricot energy balls! Simply process them with dates, almonds, and coconut flakes in a food processor until the mixture becomes sticky. Then, roll the mixture into small balls and chill for an hour before serving. These energy balls are the perfect mid-day snack or post-workout treat, offering natural sweetness and a boost of energy.
Main course
Apricot-stuffed acorn squash
Take your dinner to the next level with this apricot-stuffed acorn squash. Simply cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Then, combine chopped dried apricots with cooked quinoa, cranberries, pecans, and your favorite spices. Stuff the squash halves with this flavorful filling and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. Voila! You have a sweet and savory masterpiece.
Side dish
Apricot glazed Brussels sprouts
Give Brussels sprouts a whole new appeal by introducing a sweet twist with an apricot glaze. Simply simmer chopped dried apricots in orange juice until they soften. Then, blend this mixture into a smooth glaze. Finally, toss the glaze with roasted Brussels sprouts just before serving. This dish brings a welcome touch of sweetness, perfectly countering the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.
Dessert
Vegan apricot tart
Whip up a vegan dessert everyone will love by making a beautiful apricot tart. Just use vegan pastry dough as your base, then arrange sliced dried apricots on top. Create a glaze by heating apricot jam until it melts, then brush it over the apricots before baking at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes. This tart is as pretty as a picture, and even yummier!
Sauce
Apricot curry sauce
Elevate your curry game with a sweet apricot curry sauce that adds a fruity twist to balance the heat of spices. Simply puree soaked dried apricots with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, curry powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice until smooth. Then, simmer the sauce over low heat until slightly thickened. Use it as a flavorful base for vegetable curries or as a unique dip for appetizers.