Shad Stuffed with Dates

Directions

1. 1
   Mix together the chopped almonds, rice, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch each of pepper and ginger, and knead with a little butter to hold everything together.
2. 2
   Pit the dates and stuff them with the almond-rice mixture.
3. 3
   Rub the fish all over with oil, salt, pepper, and a little ground ginger.
4. 4
   Open up the 2 top fillets and arrange the stuffed dates down the center, then replace the top fillets.
5. 5
   Place the fish on a large, well-oiled sheet of foil and sprinkle with the finely chopped onion.
6. 6
   Wrap the fish up neatly and seal the edges of the foil firmly.
7. 7
   (The foil allows you to omit sewing up the fish.)
8. 8
   Lay the parcel on a large baking pan.
9. 9
   Bake in a preheated 350F oven, about 15 minutes per pound, or until the flesh begins to flake when you cut into the thickest part with a pointed knife.
10. 10
    Then unwrap the foil and place the fish under the broiler to become crisply golden.
11. 11
    Serve dusted with cinnamon if you like.