Dates

Dates are available year round, but because they are harvested in fall and early winter, they’re freshest then. There are three main categories of dates: soft, semisoft, and dry.

Dry dates, or bread dates, are not dates that have been deliberately dehydrated, as is the case with other kinds of dried fruits. Instead, they simply contain relatively little moisture when ripe.

Various Types of Dates from different origin

Ajwa: This is a combination of the soft and dry variety, sweet to eat and smooth in the mouth. These dates are known to have healing properties, and, in a hadith, the prophet is reported to have said that having seven ajwa dates in the morning protects a person from magic and poison until the evening.

Anbara: These large dates are a favourite due to their big, fleshy form and small seed. They’re also one of the most expensive varieties! They’re sweet, brown and full of protein.

Safawi: These black dates are sweet, fleshy and packed with vitamins. They are soft and cultivated in Madinah. These dates are known for their healing properties. If eaten on an empty stomach, they kill stomach worms. They’re also famous for their high mineral content.

Barhi: These are yellow and crunchy. The ripe date tastes like caramel and brown sugar. It’s sweet, like most dates, and totally worth it. These creamy dates are really delicate and often sold while they’re still on the thin branches. These seasonal dates can be frozen and stored for months.

Saghai: These crisp dates are cultivated in Riyadh. They are usually brown, and light yellow at the tip. They’re wrinkled but don’t flake, and are definitely must-haves!

Khudri: These dark brown dates are dry and sweet. They have wrinkled skin and may be either large or small. They’re one of the most exported dates because of their freshness and reasonable prices. They are one of the best dates to go for if you want to refresh and energize.

Sukkari: These are crisp and really sweet; a quality which gives them their name. These are known for their healing and nutritious properties. They lower cholesterol, prevent tooth decay and also help get rid of fatigue. These are cultivated in Al Qaseem region.

Zahidi: These golden, oval dates have a firm texture and nutty taste. They have thick skin, are semi dry and less sweet than other dates. They are high in fiber.

Mejdool: These are known as the ‘Queen of Dates’. They have a large, cushiony texture, strong and sweet flavour. They’re really popular in America and are often used in making shakes and smoothies. They’re usually available year round.

Kholas: These dates have a caramel flavour when cured. They’re sticky when they’re fresh and usually consumed with Arabic coffee. They have loose skin, and they originated in Al Qaseem and Al Kharj regions of our country.