The Perfect Date

by WiredBerries Editors — December 27, 2007

This time of year it isn't hard to find sweet succulent dates . Their exotic, caramel flavor makes them a holiday favorite. Few other treats can be found in nature that are as rich and candy-like as dates. Just like candy, dates are high in calories and sugar, so they'll do the trick when you start craving sweets. However, unlike candy, dates don't contain questionable artificial ingredients and are high in nutritional value with significant amounts of fiber, antioxidants, and potassium.

Dates are an ancient and exotic pleasure that are found in more than 1500 varieties, although only a few are found regularly in stores in the US. Of these, Medjool and Deglet Noor are the most common, available year-round in dried form. Bari and Honey are two other varieties that are available sporadically in season. Fresh dates are marketed in greater variety but their availability is severely limited outside of southern California. The fresh date season runs from late summer through December.

Dried or fresh, dates are highly prized in desserts such as cakes, cookies, puddings, and sweet breads and are delicious eaten out of hand--dates rolled in shredded coconut are an especially divine treat--or added to breakfast cereal. But they also have an oft-neglected savory side. In North Africa, they are routinely used in stews or casseroles featuring chicken or lamb, steamed with couscous, or combined with citrus fruits and nuts in salads. Chopped dates are an exotic replacement for raisins.

Fortunately, dates have a much longer shelf life than most fruits, so it's easier to keep them handy for when your sweet tooth acts up. You can keep fresh dates covered in the refrigerator for 3 or 4 weeks. Dried dates should be kept in an airtight container either at room temperature (a cool, dark place is best) or in the refrigerator and will last for several months.