Spicy Stuffed Mandarins

Directions

1. 1
   Wash mandarins, cover with water and simmer 20 minutes.
2. 2
   Drain and cool enough to handle.
3. 3
   Cut off 1/4-inch top of mandarin.
4. 4
   Put half of date in core of each mandarin.
5. 5
   Mix all ingredients and heat to boiling, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
6. 6
   Place mandarins in a baking dish.
7. 7
   Pour 1/2 teaspoon of syrup over date and mandarin flesh, replace top.
8. 8
   Cover mandarins with remaining syrup, bake for 20 minutes in 350° oven. Cool mandarins in syrup, drain before serving.
9. 9
   Serves 8.