1 (7 oz.) pkg. dates
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. hot water
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. shortening
2 eggs
1 3/4 c. flour
1 tsp. cocoa
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts

Cut dates in small pieces. Add water. Bring to a boil. Let cool, drain, saving the water. Cream shortening with sugar, add vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Alternately add dry ingredients with date water. Add the dates with the last addition of dry ingredients.

Pour in a 9 x 9 inch greased pan. Sprinkle nuts and chocolate chips over the top of the batter. Bake at 350 degrees about 45 minutes. Requires no frosting