
Dried Date
Dried dates are a naturally sweet and chewy treat harvested from date palm trees. These wrinkled, dark brown fruits offer a rich, caramel-like flavor with hints of honey and a slightly sticky texture. They are a great source of fiber and energy, making them a healthy and delicious snack. Often used in baking and desserts, dried dates add moisture and sweetness, and they are a popular ingredient in vegan and raw food recipes. When shopping, look for plump, moist dried dates without any added sugars or preservatives to enjoy the pure, natural sweetness.
Common Uses
- As a natural sweetener in smoothies and energy balls: Dried dates can be blended to create a sweet paste, perfect for adding natural sweetness and binding ingredients in healthy snacks like smoothies and homemade energy balls. - Stuffed with nuts and cheese for an elegant appetizer: Create a simple yet sophisticated appetizer by pitting dried dates and stuffing them with a variety of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, or soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese. - Chopped and added to baked goods for moisture and flavor: Incorporate chopped dried dates into muffins, breads, cakes, and cookies to enhance the sweetness, add a chewy texture, and improve the overall moisture content of the finished product. - Used in tagines and stews for sweet and savory depth: Introduce a unique sweet and savory element to North African tagines and stews by adding chopped dried dates during the cooking process. They'll soften and release their natural sugars, enriching the sauce and complementing the savory flavors of the dish. - As a healthy and convenient snack on their own: Enjoy dried dates straight from the package as a quick and satisfying snack. Their natural sweetness and chewy texture make them a great alternative to processed sweets, and they provide a boost of energy for busy days. - Blended into a date syrup for pancakes or desserts: Create a healthy date syrup by blending dried dates with a bit of warm water until smooth. This syrup makes a wonderful topping for pancakes, waffles, or desserts, providing natural sweetness without refined sugars.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
277.0kcal (13.85%)
Protein
1.8g (3.62%)
Carbs
75.0g (27.28%)
Sugars
63.4g (100%)
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
277.0kcal (13.85%)
Protein
1.8g (3.62%)
Carbs
75.0g (27.28%)
Sugars
63.4g (100%)
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
- Good source of natural sugars, providing a quick and sustained energy boost.
- High in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Contains essential minerals like potassium and magnesium, supporting heart health and muscle function.
- May help improve bone health due to its mineral content.
- Can aid in blood sugar control due to its low glycemic index compared to other sweeteners.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Dried dates should be stored in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out and hardening. For short-term storage (a few weeks), keep them at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For longer storage (several months), refrigerate them in an airtight container. Dates can also be frozen for even longer storage; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Before using frozen dates, allow them to thaw slightly at room temperature to soften.
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Australia