Mersu (MER-su)

Ancient Sumerian Pistachio Date Balls

Discover the simplicity and sweetness of Mersu, an ancient Sumerian delight. This two-ingredient treat is a testament to the culinary wisdom of one of the world's earliest civilizations. With no added sugars, these pistachio date balls offer a natural and wholesome indulgence

Recipe Directions

First, grind the 1/2 cup of pistachios into a fine powder and remove to a plate. Next, add your dates to the mortar and pestle and pour boiling water over them to cover. Let them soak for about 30 minutes. Now drain the water (don’t worry about getting every drop. A little left over water actually helps the recipe). Add the softened butter and mash into a paste, then add the cup of postachios and mash until smooth. Roll into 12 little balls (wet your hands with water if they get sticky) and roll each ball in the ground pistachios to coat. Chill before serving, and that’s that. Delicious, and I can’t stress enough, with zero added sugar.

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History

Mersu, deeply rooted in the gastronomy of ancient Sumer, showcases the enduring legacy of Mesopotamian cuisine. This recipe, simple yet rich in flavor, echoes the ingenuity of Sumerian cooks who mastered the art of sweets with limited ingredients. In the Sumerian tradition, Mersu was more than just a sweet treat; it was a part of rituals and offerings, symbolizing the sweetness of life and the bounty of the earth.

Servings

12

Prep Time (hours)

1

Items Needed

Mortar and pestle, Boiling water for soaking, Plate for ground pistachios

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Ingredients

1 cup dates, roughly chopped
1 cup + ½ cup pistachios
2 tablespoons butter

Item type

Consumable, Food / Drink

Creator

Ashur

Related ethnicities

• Sumerian

Source

Original Reference Site