There are numerous types of dates grown throughout the world, with variations in size, shape, color, texture, and flavor. While the exact number of date varieties is difficult to determine, estimates suggest that there are over 3,000 cultivars of dates grown worldwide.
Some of the most popular date varieties include:
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Medjool Dates: Often referred to as the "king of dates," Medjool dates are large, plump, and have a caramel-like flavor.
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Deglet Noor Dates: These dates are smaller than Medjool dates and have a firm, chewy texture and a sweet, nutty flavor.
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Barhi Dates: These are soft, tender dates that are often eaten fresh. They have a delicate, honey-like flavor and a slightly grainy texture.
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Halawy Dates: These are small to medium-sized dates with a soft, creamy texture and a caramel-like flavor.
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Zahidi Dates: These are medium-sized dates that are firm and chewy with a sweet, nutty flavor.
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Khadrawy Dates: These are medium-sized dates that are soft and sweet with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
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Dayri Dates: These are large, oblong-shaped dates with a soft, chewy texture and a sweet, nutty flavor.
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Thoory Dates: These are small to medium-sized dates that are firm and chewy with a sweet, nutty flavor.
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Hayani Dates: These are medium-sized dates that are soft and sweet with a mild, honey-like flavor.
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Mazafati Dates: These dates are grown in Iran and are known for their soft, juicy texture and rich, caramel-like flavor.
References:
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El-Sohaimy, S. A., & Hafez, E. E. (2015). Dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.): An Overview of Potential Health Benefits. In Nutritional and therapeutic interventions for diabetes and metabolic syndrome (pp. 121-133). Academic Press.
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Mokhtari, M., & Karimi, R. (2016). Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.): Cultivation, Uses, and Economics in Iran. In Handbook of major palm pests: biology and management (pp. 491-504). Springer.
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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2021). Dates. Retrieved from http://www.fao.org/traditional-crops/date-palm/en/
