Different types of dates are among the most popular foods associated with our Arab history and culture. They are considered natural foods rich in beneficial nutrients. These types vary greatly in taste, color, and texture, giving each type a distinct character and special health benefits.
What are the types of fresh dates? ?
Date varieties vary depending on the region and the natural characteristics of each type. The most famous types of soft dates that you can learn about are:
- Ruthana dates : a luxurious variety, characterised by their large size, rich sweet taste and soft texture.
- Khalas dates : Known for their sweet flavor and golden color, they are a favorite of many.
- Barhi dates : They have a distinct taste that ranges between sweet and bitter, and their colour tends towards golden yellow.
- Sakari dates : Known for their extreme sweetness and soft texture, they are considered one of the most popular types of dates in Saudi Arabia.
- Medjool dates : They are characterized by their large size and elegant shape, and are considered a date with a rich taste.
- Saqei dates : a unique variety known for its soft texture and mild sweet flavor.
Each of these varieties has its own characteristics that make it distinct in taste and use, giving you a wide range of options to choose from to suit your taste and nutritional needs.
How to choose the best types of fresh dates
If you're a fan of natural, fresh flavors, nothing beats the pleasure of eating fresh dates, which combine a sweet taste with health benefits. Here are some tips for choosing the best types:
- Proper ripeness: Choose soft dates that are tender but not too soft or wrinkled, with a uniform color that indicates full ripeness.
- Good smell: Make sure the dates have a fresh, natural smell, free from strange odors or acidity that may indicate spoilage.
- Appearance: Look for firm, undamaged or cracked kernels with a clean, shiny skin.
- Taste: If you can taste, choose the type that suits your taste, whether sweet or mild, because each type has its own taste.
- Trusted Source: Buy from trusted stores like Al Ansar Store, which guarantees the quality and freshness of the dates.
- Harvest and packaging date: Make sure you know the date your dates were harvested and packaged to ensure you get a fresh product.
Health benefits of different types of fresh dates
Fresh dates are one of the richest natural foods in health benefits. They provide the body with many essential nutrients. Here are their most important benefits:
- Rich in fiber, which improves digestion and prevents constipation.
- A natural source of energy thanks to healthy sugars.
- It contains important minerals such as potassium and magnesium to support heart health.
- It boosts immunity thanks to vitamins such as vitamin B6 and A.
- It contains antioxidants that fight inflammation and protect the body from chronic diseases.
- It helps to enhance physical and mental activity and strengthen the body.
The difference between types of wet dates And dates
To better understand dates, it is important to know the difference between fresh dates and dried dates, as each stage differs in taste, texture, and health benefits:
Dates
- It is the date in the soft and fresh stage immediately after harvest.
- It has a soft, watery texture.
- It tastes sweet and refreshing.
- Its color is usually yellow or red depending on the species.
- It is best eaten fresh before it starts to dry out.
Dates
- It is an advanced stage of ripening after the date, where the date begins to lose some of its moisture.
- Its texture becomes softer and more viscous than wet.
- It tastes sweeter and more concentrated due to the lower water content.
- Its color tends to be dark or light brown.
- It is used for fresh eating or preparing dried dates.
Number of calories in fresh dates
Fresh dates contain moderate calories compared to dry dates, with an average of 100 grams of fresh dates containing about 60 to 80 calories . These calories come mainly from natural sugars, which provide quick energy to the body.
This makes wet dates a healthy and convenient option for snacking or during exercise, especially for those looking for natural energy without a significant increase in calories.
Ideas for serving fresh dates at events and parties
To make your occasions and feasts special, we offer you the best ways to present fresh dates in delicious and attractive forms that will enchant your guests:
- Mixed Dates Platter: A selection of the most popular types of soft dates, such as Sukkari, Khalas, and Ruthana, are placed on an elegant platter with nuts such as almonds and pistachios.
- Stuffed dates: Stuffing fresh dates with nuts such as walnuts or almonds, or even cream cheese, makes a luxurious dish that guests will love.
- With coffee or tea: Serve fresh dates alongside Arabic coffee or tea as a classic and authentic welcome dish.
- Chocolate-dipped dates: Dip moist dates in dark or white chocolate, sprinkled with coconut or nuts for a unique taste.
- In oriental sweets: Use fresh dates as an ingredient in kunafa or maamoul to increase the sweetness and fresh taste.
- In fruit salads: Add fresh date pieces to fruit salad to enhance the taste and texture.
- Chilled dates: Serve fresh dates chilled with a little orange blossom or rose water to give them a refreshing flavor.
The best time of year to buy fresh wet dates
To obtain the finest fresh dates, it's important to know the harvest seasons and the best times to buy. Here are the most important points:
- The wet date season usually begins from late summer until early fall.
- The most popular harvest months are from August to October in most Arab countries.
- At this time the dates are soft and fresh with a sweet, refreshing flavor.
- Buying fresh dates in season ensures the best quality and lowest price.
- Refrigerated dates can be purchased during this period to keep them fresh for longer.
If you're looking for the best fresh and unique dates, Al Ansar Dates Store is your perfect destination. We offer a variety of the finest dates, such as Sukkari, Khalas, and Ruthana, all carefully selected to deliver the highest quality and irresistible taste. Don't miss the chance to experience the authentic taste of fresh dates and enjoy their amazing health benefits. Visit Al Ansar Store today and make dates a part of your healthy and delicious day.