Eggless Gingerbread

A relatively healthy and easy version of gingerbread to eat during the holidays. Dates in general are a good substitute for sugar, as mentioned in Chef AJ's green smoothie recipe.

• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 1-3/4 cups water
• 2 cups whole-wheat pastry flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sodium-free baking powder

1. Combine the raisins, dates, sugar, salt, spices, and water in a large saucepan, and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and cool completely (this is important).
2. Once cool, preheat oven to 350°F.
3. Stir the flour, baking soda, and baking powder together. Add to the cooled fruit mixture and stir to mix.
4. Spread into a 9- x 9-inch pan that has been lightly coated with a nonstick spray and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Recipe from Foods That Fight Pain by Neal D. Barnard, M.D