Small, sweet, healthy and full of nutrients and energy – dates are a miracle of nature and taste simply delicious. However, there is not just one, but hundreds of date varieties that differ in colour, shape, size and consistency.
Dates thrive in hot and dry climates in different regions of the world. Many regions grow varieties that only exist there and are perfectly adapted to the local conditions. Many of them are not grown commercially and are practically unknown. Others, such as Medjool, grow in different countries and even on different continents. These varieties are better known.
We would like to introduce some date varieties to you here. Many of them are available in our online shop and we hope to be able to offer an even larger selection of varieties in the future.
Khidri, the “tall, dark, and mysterious” dates, are largely known for their distinct deep chestnut red hue, uniform in colour. They have a light and flaky skin and sweet, chewy flesh reminiscent of raisins, are moderately sweet and have a warm, intense aftertaste.
Medjool are the largest date variety. Their flesh is both moist and plump and they have a thin, soft skin. Medjool are chewy and sweet. Their rich flavor tastes like caramel.
Mabroom dates are deliciously sweet and sticky, with light red-bronze skin and a lingering toffee-like taste on the palate. They have a smooth and pleasant flavour but are much firmer than other date varieties. Some may even find them quite hard to chew, like a candy. We think that’s exactly what makes Mabroom special. Plus, they contain multiple natural fibres and minerals which contribute to a healthy body and mind.
Safawi dates have a beautiful dark brown colour. They are rather firm and have a fine taste, slightly reminiscent of coffee. Their aftertaste is not as sweet as other date varieties. That is why you can eat very many in a row.
Anbara are dark colored dates with a lightly structured skin. They’re juicy, soft and very aromatic. The flesh is tender yet almost slightly crispy. Anbara are quite big in size, but very light and not too sweet, which makes them a perfect snack any time of the day.
Known as royal dates, Sukari dates are cone-shaped with marked folds in their skin. A rich brown in colour, with golden-yellowish tones, Sukari dates have a caramelised and fruity taste and a soft, silky aftertaste of honey. Originating in Al-Qasim, Saudi Arabia, these dates are a pure, delectable treat. Neither dry nor too sweet, they are ideal for use in pastries, cakes, salads, smoothies, or cooked dishes.
Segai are medium-sized, two-toned dates. Those juicy dates are soft while at the same time chewy and have a golden, slightly dry and crunchy base. Their taste is mild and fruity and they’re less sweet than other date varieties. Segai are so good that they can easily become your new favorite date!
Our delicious Astaka dates are large and round with soft flesh and crisp skin. Their colour ranges from dark yellow to brown. The lighter fruits are firmer, meaty and crunchy, while the darker ones are soft and creamy. Astaka are soft in taste and not too sweet. As they are very fresh dates, they should always be kept in the freezer. They taste great ice cold too!
That the consistency of the Astaka dates varies is normal and never all will be exactly the same. It happens that the dates further down in the box are softer and somewhat crushed. This is quite natural and not a sign of poor quality.
Barhi dates are small with wrinkled skin, similar to sukari. They are very soft, almost creamy, and really melt in your mouth. They are medium sweet and have a lovely lingering taste of caramel.
As Barhi are very soft dates, it is possible that some may be slightly crushed by the weight of the dates resting on top or by the lid of the box. This is not a sign of lower quality, but quite natural and does not affect the taste.
Our Bawalini dates are very juicy and sweet. Their skin is a bit crunchy and their pulp is extremely tender. Their taste is similar to that of the Sukari Soft but they’re less sweet. They’re so tender that they melt in your mouth, leaving a wonderful hint of caramel. They’re perfect to eat any time of the day, just as they are. Bawalini should be stored in the fridge so they remain juicy and fresh.
Mazafati dates are juicy and sweet. Those wonderfully sugary dates melt in your mouth and are irresistible for everyone with a sweet tooth.
Deglet Nour (Arabic دقلة نور “finger of light” , also “Deglet Noor” ) grow in North Africa, especially in Algeria. They are relatively large, uniformly brown dates. They have a very thin skin and are soft and crispy at the same time. They have a very pleasant taste, sweet and fruity. Deglet Nour are best taken out of the refrigerator. Deglet Nour are harvested with their branch.
Ajwa dates are a distinctive variety from the Madinah region of Saudi Arabia. They have a unique round form and a deep crimson hue that is almost black. With their rich flavor and fine texture, Ajwa are a distinctly drier variety of date with a smooth, silky sweetness that melts in the mouth. These dates are revered for their health properties as a natural resource for essential nutritients.
