Muslims all around the world break their fasts during Ramadan with dates. While dates are a staple in most households during Ramadan, did you know of the various types of dates available? If you don’t, let us show you!
Ajwa
The Ajwa date, which originated in the Saudi Arabian city of Medina and is cultivated in limited quantities, is celebrated as the ‘Holy date’ and a revered variety associated with centuries-old Islamic faith.
It has a prune-like texture and is black with fine wrinkled lines. These dates are pleasantly soft and mildly sweet. Despite the fact that Ajwa is typically dry, it has a fruity flavour profile.
Khidri
The Khidri date, which originated in Egypt, is the most well-known Bateel variety. This date has a large cylindrical and elongated shape, is amber to dark brown in colour, and has wrinkled flaky skin. It’s soft and chewy, with a sweet raisin-like flavour and a caramel aftertaste.
Kholas
Kholas dates are consumed at various stages of maturity, including balah (unripe), rhutab (semi-ripe), and tamr (ripe) (fully ripe). The frozen rhutab with soft flesh is a high-end treat.
This date has an oval shape with semi-translucent dark to golden-brown skin. Kholas dates are soft and smooth, with a rich, toffee-flavored flesh that is often served with Arabic coffee.
Medjool
The Medjool, also known as the California date, is one of the world’s most popular date varieties.
It has a thick outer skin and a deep brown colour, and its large elongated shape and pointed end make it easy to identify. It’s plump, moist, and luscious, with a distinct caramel flavour and hints of vanilla flavour.
Segai
Segai dates are native to Saudi Arabia and have a distinct multi-hued appearance.
The Segai is elongated in shape, with the base wider than the tip, and has a light beige rim with a saffron to dark orange body. The rim is firm and crunchy, with a flavour profile similar to warm brown sugar, and the base is juicy, soft, and mildly sweet.
Sokari
The Sokari variety, also known as the ‘Royal Date,’ stays true to its Arabic translation of ‘sugar.’
This cone-shaped date with prominent creases in yellow to dark gold skin is available in both soft and hard varieties and has a mildly sugary flesh. When presented in its hard form, the Sokari has crystallised sugars and a crisp, caramel flavour.
Wanan
The Wanan is Bateel’s signature date and is a true delight for date connoisseurs.
Wanan dates are distinguished by their long, cone-shaped bodies and dark wrinkled skin. Deliciously sweet and extremely filling.
Now that you can differentiate between the various types of dates available, be sure to try each one out!
