Do you know Your Dates (Kurma)?

Every Ramadan, dates become the must have on every table during breaking fast. Usually, people eat an odd number of dates during breaking fast. Some even drink “air nabeez” which is water infused with dates or raisins during suhoor.

Nevertheless, what many do not realize is dates are not supposed to be too sweet. The too sweet ones are usually glazed with honey and sugar. The best test to determine if the dates are sweetened artificially is to leave it out. If ants come, you know it has been glazed with sugar. Natural dates should not attract ants as ants are only attracted to glucose. Dates is made off fructose.

Types of Dates

There are hundreds of varieties of dates and they come in different shapes, sizes and flavors. Below are the 8 main type of dates that are found in the market:

1. Medjool Dates

Medjool dates are the most exported dates (up to 25% of dates exported worldwide). This also makes it the most consumed dates.

Taste Profile: Large, plump, have a soft, chewy texture and caramel like flavor.

2. Deglet Noor Dates

Deglet Noor are semi-dry and semi-sweet dates. They are usually golden in colour and smaller and firmer than Medjool dates. The dates also have lower moisture content making it a suitable choice for baking and cooking as it can retain its shape better.

Taste Profile: They have a slightly nutty flavour, lighter and not too sweet.

3. Barhi Dates

Barhi dates are small, round, soft, and creamy. They can be eaten at all stages of growing from unripe, semi-ripe to fully ripe.

Taste Profile: When they are young and yellow, they are crunchy and mildly sweet. They become soft and syrupy with a rich, honey-like flavour as they ripen.

4. Ajwa Dates

Ajwa dates are smaller and darker than other dates (usually black skin).

Taste Profile: Have distinctive sweet and earthy flavour

5. Zahidi Dates

Zahidi dates have thick golden skin and a firm texture.

Taste Profile: They are less sweet making them a good option for those who prefer a less sugary taste. Due to their thick consistency, this dates are often used in date pastes and spreads.

6. Halawy Dates

Halawy dates are soft and caramel-like, similar to Medjool dates but smaller.

Taste Profile: They have a rich, toffee-like flavour that makes them perfect for snacking or adding to desserts.

7. Sukkary Dates

Sukkary dates are highly prized in the Middle East and are often gifted during special occasions.

Taste Profile: Sukkary (translated to English: sugary) are known for their extreme sweetness and soft texture.

8. Mazafati Dates

Mazafati dates, also known as Bam dates, are native to Iran and are known for their rich, dark colour and soft, moist texture.

Taste Profile: They have a sweet and chocolatey flavour.

Selecting Fresh Dates

Most dates that come to Malaysia usually arrive 1-2 months later after being plucked. By then, many of them would have been laden with preservatives. Hence, when the dates are opened, they usually have a white sheen on them indicating some preservative have been applied. Hence, soak any purchased dates before eating them.

Here are a few tips to check if your dates are still fresh and edible once the box is opened:

1. Buy from Reputable Stores

Buy dates from reputable stores and not at the market. Most reputable stores have proper storage methods as they do not want to risk their reputation selling moldy dates.

2. Check the Skin

The date’s skin should be uniform in color, smooth and unbroken. There should be no signs of mold or discoloration. Avoid dates with cracked or wrinkled skin, as this can indicate that they are old or have been improperly stored.

3. Feel the Texture

Gently squeeze the dates to check the texture. Fresh dates should feel soft and a bit sticky but not mushy. If the date feels stiff or dry, it may be old. On the other hand, if the date is too soft and squishy, it could be overripe.

4. Smell the Dates

Fresh dates should have a sweet, pleasant aroma. If the dates smell off, it may be spoiled or infected by fungus.

5. Check for Pits

With pitted dates, ensure that the pit has been removed cleanly, with no pieces left behind. Whole dates with pits tend to stay fresher longer hence this is the best option for those who want to store the dates for a longer time.

Dates are a versatile and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways. You can enjoy the best dates by understanding the different varieties and how to select, store, and incorporate them into your diet or snack.

Reference:
Butterkicap. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Choose the Best Dates to Eat.