Irresistible Filipino Food for the Gods Bars

A Taste of the Divine: What is 'Food for the Gods'?

'Food for the Gods' is a traditional Filipino dessert that packs a flavor punch with its combination of walnuts and either prunes or dates. Each bite offers a heavenly balance between sweet, salty, and nutty profiles, truly deserving of its divine name. So, let's roll up our sleeves and get to the nuts and bolts of crafting this delicacy!

Heavenly Ingredients

To recreate this celestial delight at home, you'll need the following:

Note: If unsalted butter is your only option, don't fret. Just add 1/4 teaspoon of salt into the flour.

The Path to Gastronomic Bliss

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 F (170C). Grease and line two pieces 8X8 square pans, creating a non-stick surface that will make your life easier when the baking is done.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until it resembles a smooth, caramel-like mixture.
3. Crack in the eggs, one at a time, incorporating them thoroughly into your butter and sugar base.
4. Stir in the liquid glucose, which will give our dessert its unique, glossy appeal.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and baking soda (and the extra salt, if you're using unsalted butter). Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, creating a thick, sumptuous batter.
6. The final step before baking involves folding in the walnuts and your choice of prunes or dates. This not only infuses the batter with their delightful flavors but also gives the finished product a satisfying crunch.
7. Transfer the batter into your prepared pans, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
8. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top exterior is almost firm. Your kitchen will be filled with a sweet, toasty aroma that will have you checking the timer every few minutes!

Nutritional Breakdown

Each serving of 'Food for the Gods' (approximately 100 grams) contains the following:

• Calories: 330
• Carbohydrates: 46 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 50 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands of ingredients used.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Ensure not to overmix the batter to prevent your bar from getting hard.
• If you're not a fan of prunes or dates, dried figs or apricots can work as a delicious substitute!
• For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting your walnuts before adding them to the batter.
• While it's tempting to slice into your fresh-out-of-the-oven dessert, let it cool for a bit. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, enhancing your culinary experience.
• Use a plastic scraper instead of metal to avoid scratching your pan.
• After baking, you can flatten the bars so it would have a consistent height.
• The shelf life of "Food for the Gods" is up to 2 weeks outside if properly packed and up to a month or even two months inside the fridge.
• The liquid glucose is crucial in this recipe as it makes the bars chewy. There's no exact substitute for liquid glucose, so try to source it.

What to Serve with 'Food for the Gods'

This rich, sweet dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of strong, black coffee or a glass of milk. It can also be served alongside a light, citrusy salad to balance its decadence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 'Food for the Gods' be made vegan?

Yes, there are several substitutes available for eggs, butter, and liquid glucose to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

How can I store leftovers?

This dessert keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Can I freeze 'Food for the Gods'?

Yes, it freezes well. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw it thoroughly before serving.

What other nuts can I use?

While walnuts are traditional, pecans, hazelnuts, or almonds could also work beautifully in this recipe.

Can I use honey instead of liquid glucose?

Yes, honey or corn syrup can be used as a substitute, though it might slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Last Bite

In the realm of desserts, 'Food for the Gods' truly earns its divine status. The mingling of flavors and textures create a gastronomic experience that's out of this world. So, why not roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to a heavenly slice today?

You can watch Chef RV's YouTube clip here.