Fig, Date, and Walnut Quick Bread

Dried fruits like figs and dates are good sources of potassium and fiber. Here they are combined with heart-healthy walnuts and a mixture of wholemeal and white flour. One slice of this sweet, rich bread adds 227 milligrams of potassium to your daily allowance.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.Heat the first 4 ingredients in a small heavy saucepan over medium-high heat until bubbles begin to form around the edges (do not bring to a boil). Remove from heat; add figs and dates. Let stand for 20 minutes or until the fruit is tender.Combine the sugar, butter, and eggs in a large bowl; beat with a whisk until smooth. Add the cooled milk mixture.Lightly pour the flour into dry measuring cups; smooth with a knife. Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl; make a well in the center of the mixture. Add the milk mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until it becomes moist. Spoon the batter into an 8-inch x 4-inch bread pan greased with cooking spray. Sprinkle the dough evenly with walnuts. Bake at 350 ° C for 40 minutes or until a wooden stick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes in the pan on a wire rack; remove from the pan. Cool completely on a wire rack.