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- Dates have been cultivated for thousands of years in the Middle East.
- Introduced into Mexico and California in 1765 by Spanish explorers.
- Dates ripen in four stages: kimri-unripe, khalal-full size and crunchy, nutab-ripe, soft, tamir-ripe and sundried.
- Date palms bear fruit 4-7 years after planting.
- Date palms produce about 200 lbs of fruit per harvest season.
- Good source of dietary potassium.
- Used medicinally as as intestinal cleanser.
- Young dates are cooked and eaten as vegetables.
- Dried dates are fed to camels, horses and dogs.
The Medjool date, grown in the Tafilalt region, is considered the best date. The fruit is
large, sweet and succulent.
The fruit is versatile, it can be processed into cubes, paste, syrup, powder, vinegar and
alcohol.
Be creative...use dates in sweet or savory recipes.
Stuff dates with a variety of fillings: almonds or walnuts, marzipan or cream cheese.
In the US dates are a popular ingredient in desserts and bread recipes.
Whip dates with butter, a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg for a spread.
Add chopped dates to rice, couscous or bulgar to take a simple side to spectacular.
Pancakes and waffles can be jazzed with the addition of dates. The possibilities are
endless.
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