Step 1

Pour dates into a medium sized glass or ceramic bowl.  Add water to a medium sized saucepan and bring to a boil.  You want to add enough water to cover your dates completely when you pour the water over them.

Step 2

Bring water to a boil and then carefully pour hot water over the dates in the bowl.  Let sit for about 30 minutes.  Drain the water from the dates, but reserve the liquid.

Step 3

Add the dates to a food processor or blender, turn on and then slowly drizzle in your reserved date soaking water.  Depending on what you are using your date paste for you can make it as thin or as thick as you like.  I usually add a few tablespoons of water and make mine thick enough to be able to spread on a slice of bread.

Step 4

You can use your date paste immediately or you can store it for use later on.  Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about a month and in the freezer for about a year.  If frozen, thaw on the counter or in the refrigerator before using.