Date And Nut Bread
["3/4 c. chopped nuts", "1 c. chopped dates", "1 1/2 tsp. baking soda", "1/2 tsp. salt", "1/4 c. shortening", "3/4 c. boiling water", "2 eggs", "1/2 tsp. vanilla", "1 c. sugar", "1 1/2 c. sifted all-purpose flour"]
["Combine nuts, dates, soda and salt in a mixing bowl.", "Add shortening and boiling water.", "Allow this mixture to stand for 15 minutes.", "Stir to blend.", "In a separate bowl, beat the eggs slightly and add vanilla.", "Stir in sugar and flour.", "Add to date mixture.", "Do not overmix.", "Place in a greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.", "Bake for 1 hour in 350\u00b0 (moderate) oven.", "When done, toothpick inserted in the center will come out clean.", "Cool before removing.", "Loosen sides with a spatula.", "For perfect slicing, allow the loaf to cool several hours."]
["nuts", "dates", "baking soda", "salt", "shortening", "boiling water", "eggs", "vanilla", "sugar", "flour"]