Have you ever heard of date fruits? Dates are edible fruit from the date palm tree and have been used for centuries as a food source.
Although dates are commonly known for their sweet taste, many different types of dates are available on the market.
This blog post will explore the different types of dates, their unique characteristics, and their potential health benefits.
Learn about the different varieties of dates, their flavors and textures, and how to use them in your recipes.
Keep reading to learn more about these incredible fruits!
1. Haleema Dates
Haleema Dates are the first on our list of different types of dates from Yemen, where they have been grown for hundreds of years.
They are considered the sweetest dates, with a bright yellow color and soft texture. They are commonly used to make desserts or for snacking on their own.
Haleema Dates are often drier than other types of dates and have a slightly bitter flavor.
This makes them great for baking, as the sweetness is more concentrated. They can also be used in savory dishes like stews, curries, and couscous dishes.
2. Fardh or Fard Dates
Fardh or Fard Dates are a type of date fruit that originates from Saudi Arabia and is usually known for its firm texture, dark reddish-brown color, and sweet flavor.
These dates are typically small in size and can be found both in the wild and cultivated in date farms.
They are known for their high fiber content, making them a great energy source and a satisfying snack.
Moreso, they are one of the different types of dates that is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Fardh Dates are also highly regarded as they are said to have powerful medicinal properties.
They have been used as traditional medicine in Saudi Arabia for many years.
They are believed to have health benefits such as improving digestion, aiding weight loss, boosting immunity, and relieving constipation.
3. Ambera Dates
Ambera dates are a popular type of date fruit grown in the Middle East. They are smaller than other dates and usually brown or yellowish.
The flavor of Ambera dates is sweet and caramel-like, making them popular for baking and desserts.
They are also used as an ingredient in Middle Eastern dishes such as muhammara and baba ganoush.
Ambera dates have a high nutritional value and are packed with essential minerals and vitamins.
They are also rich in antioxidants which help to fight free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.
Ambera dates have thick flesh and a chewy texture on this list of different types of dates.
They are great for snacking or adding to salads, yogurt, and cereal. They can also be used to make date paste or date syrup.
Ambera dates are a great source of dietary fiber and provide long-lasting energy when consumed.
They can also be dried and ground into date powder which can be used as an alternative sweetener in baking or as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, and smoothies.
4. Derrie or Dayri Dates
Derrie or Dayri dates are also one of the different types of dates and are popularly known for their large size and sweet flavor.
They are harvested from the trees of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and other Middle Eastern countries.
These dates are mostly oval in shape and have a light yellow color. The texture is soft and chewy.
Derrie or Dayri dates have a high sugar content, with a sweetness level of 15-18 Brix.
The combination of sweetness and soft texture makes them ideal for use in desserts, puddings, and even bread.
Their juicy nature makes them great for snacking or adding to salads.
Derrie or Dayri dates also have many health benefits, including antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
The large size and high sugar content of these dates also make them popular for baking and cooking.
They are a great addition to cakes, pies, and tarts as they will provide an extra sweetness boost to any recipe.
These dates can also be eaten on their own or chopped up to add to trail mixes or energy bars.
Derrie or Dayri dates are definitely a tasty and versatile type of dates that can be enjoyed in many different ways!
5. Mazafati Dates
Of the different types of dates, Mazafati dates are dark brown to black and have a sweet, moist flavor.
They are usually small in size and have a high moisture content. They are native to the town of Bam in Iran and have become one of the fruits of the most popular date in the Middle East and North Africa.
These dates are known for their luscious sweetness and are commonly used to make date-based desserts and jams.
They have thick flesh that can be easily removed from the seed. Mazafati dates are harvested during the summer when they are at their ripest.
They are usually available throughout the year in stores that sell dates. The popularity of Mazafati dates has grown due to their unique taste and texture.
They are considered healthy snacks and contain various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help promote overall health.
They can be consumed fresh or dried or used in recipes for a delicious treat.
6. Khenaizi
Khenaizi dates are considered to be one of the most popular different types of dates in the Middle East.
These dates come from a specific type of date palm tree and are usually found in the Persian Gulf region.
These dates are smaller than other types and have a unique color that ranges from light yellow to deep red.
The flavor of Khenaizi dates is sweet and a little tangy, with a hint of acidity that adds a nice complexity to the taste.
Khenaizi dates are often eaten as a snack or used as an ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes, such as kabob and tabouleh.
They can also be used in baking and added to smoothies for a nutritious energy boost.
7. Sellaj
Sellaj dates are one of the sweetest different types of dates and are believed to have originated in Iraq.
The Sellaj dates are known for their oval shape and light-brown color.
They have a soft texture and a mild sweet flavor, making them a favorite among date lovers.
Sellaj dates contain high levels of natural sugars, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that make them very nutritious.
They are excellent sources of fiber, iron, potassium, and magnesium, which make them a great choice for those looking to add more nutrients to their diet.
Sellaj dates can be eaten on their own or added to dishes to give them extra sweetness and flavor.
They are also popularly used in baking and as fillings in desserts.
8. Khudri Dates
Khudri dates are also one of the different dates originating from Saudi Arabia.
They are known for their soft texture, sweet taste, and succulent flavor. These dates are light brown and can be eaten either fresh or dried.
Khudri dates are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy and delicious snack.
The best time to eat Khudri dates is in the summer season when they are in their peak season.
Khudri dates can also be enjoyed with yogurt or added to salads and desserts.
Khudri dates are considered one of the top-tier varieties of dates in terms of flavor and sweetness.
They have a unique sweet flavor that is complemented by the light brown color and soft texture.
Compared to other types of dates, Khudri dates are highly sought after and known for their exceptional taste.
Khudri dates are also packed with beneficial nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and fiber, which can help promote good health.
So if you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious snack, look no further than Khudri dates!
9. Khadrawi or Khadrawy Dates
Khadrawi or Khadrawy dates are a type of date fruit originating from Tunisia and Algeria.
The date is oval-shaped and dark in color, and its flavor is sweet and distinct.
Its soft and chewy texture makes it an ideal addition to many dishes or as a snack. Its small size also makes it perfect for snacking on the go.
Because of their natural sweetness, Khadrawi dates are often used in desserts, especially when paired with fruits like figs or raisins.
They can also be used in savory dishes, like stews and tagines, adding a rich sweetness to the dish.
Khadrawi dates contain essential nutrients and vitamins, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
They are also high in antioxidants which help protect the body from diseases and boost immunity.
These dates are a great energy source and can be eaten throughout the day to keep you going.
To get the most out of your Khadrawi dates, make sure you buy them fresh and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to use them. Enjoy!
10. Hayany Dates
Hayany dates are a sweet, dark brown variety of different dates.
They are grown mainly in Iraq and are known for their soft texture and sweet taste. Hayany dates have thin skin, which makes them easy to eat.
They can also be cooked and used in baking recipes. Hayany dates have a rich, nutty flavor that makes them a great addition to any recipe.
Hayany dates are a great source of energy and nutrition. They contain a high amount of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, as well as antioxidants and phytonutrients.
Eating Hayany dates can help boost energy levels, aid digestion, and reduce the risk of heart disease and other health conditions.
They can also help to regulate blood sugar levels, which is especially beneficial for those with diabetes.
11. Piarom Dates
Piarom dates, also known as Maryami, are a special variety of the different types of dates found in the Middle East.
These dates are often considered to be the best dates in terms of flavor and texture. Piarom dates are elongated and dark brown, with a slight reddish hue.
They are exceptionally sweet, with hints of caramel and chocolate, making them a delicious and sought-after delicacy.
The high sugar content of these dates makes them a popular choice for desserts and baked goods.
Additionally, they are a great source of dietary fiber, providing essential nutrition and keeping you full for longer.
Piarom dates are usually dried and sold whole, though they can also be processed into date paste or date syrup.
When purchasing these dates, it is important to check the label for freshness, as they have a short shelf life when exposed to air or sunlight. Piarom dates can last up to six months if properly stored in an airtight container.
Whether served fresh or processed into something else, Piarom dates are sure to tantalize your taste buds with their unique and flavorful sweetness.
12. Migraf Dates
Migraf dates are a type of date fruit that is smaller and firmer than many of its counterparts.
This date variety is native to the Middle East and is becoming increasingly popular due to its sweet taste.
These, on this list of different types of dates, can be eaten fresh, dried, or cooked in recipes.
The sweetness of Migraf dates makes them an ideal snack or dessert. They can also be added to breakfast cereals, muffins, and other baked goods.
Additionally, Migraf dates make a great topping for ice cream or yogurt. Migraf dates are a highly nutritious fruit with a high amount of potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus.
They also contain several essential vitamins and minerals. Eating these dates regularly can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Additionally, they are a good source of dietary fiber that can aid digestion and weight loss.
Migraf dates are a delicious and healthy way to satisfy a sweet tooth while receiving important nutritional benefits.
13. Sag‘ai Dates
Sag‘ai dates are one of the most popular different types of dates fruits in the Middle East and North Africa.
Their distinctive shape and flavor make them a favorite among foodies. They have a deep, dark color and a semi-firm texture. The flavor of the fruit is sweet and earthy with hints of honey.
These dates are often dried and can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or used in recipes such as date cake, date pudding, and date bars.
They can also be cooked with meats, added to couscous, or made into date syrup.
Sag‘ai dates are nutrient-dense and a good fiber, iron, and magnesium source. Additionally, they are high in antioxidants and provide various health benefits, from aiding digestion to improving heart health.
14. Deglet Noor Dates
Deglet Noor dates are one of the most popular date varieties in the world.
This date type is known for its soft texture, light brown color, and semi-dry consistency. They are a deliciously sweet and juicy snack that is also low in calories and fat.
Deglet Noor dates are often eaten fresh, but they can also be used in various recipes, such as pieces of bread, cookies, cakes, and jams.
These dates are also high in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy snack for anyone looking for a delicious treat.
Deglet Noor dates are grown mainly in North Africa and the Middle East, with Algeria producing some of the best dates available.
While these dates can be found in many grocery stores, you can also find them at farmers’ markets and specialty food stores.
When buying these dates, pick plump and moist ones, as these will be the freshest and most flavorful.
Enjoy these delicious dates as a snack, or use them in your favorite recipes for a sweet and nutritious treat!
15. Sukkari Dates
Still, on this list of different types of dates, sukkari dates are a type of date fruit that is semi-soft and has a unique sweet taste.
The Sukkari variety of date fruits is grown in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries. They have an orange-brown color and smooth, glossy surfaces.
Their size is typically bigger than other types of dates, and they have an almost-sticky consistency when eaten.
Sukkari dates are popular for snacking or baking due to their sweet flavor and high sugar content.
They’re also often enjoyed as a topping on salads and yogurt. When dried and pitted, Sukkari dates can be used as a substitute for raisins in baking recipes.
Sukkari dates are harvested in the late summer or early fall and can be found fresh or packaged in various forms, such as jellied date spreads, date paste, and date syrup.
While Sukkari dates are often available in stores, they can also be purchased online from specialty vendors.
Dates are known for their nutritional benefits, so eating them regularly can provide your body with beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Enjoying these treats can help keep you feeling satisfied while providing healthy nutrients to your diet.
16. Barhi Dates
Barhi dates are one of the most popular and delicious varieties of different types of dates.
They are known for their soft, succulent texture, intense sweetness, and unique flavor. Barhi dates are golden-yellow in color when ripe and feature thin skin and firm flesh.
They tend to have a semi-dry texture that ranges from chewy to crunchy, depending on how ripe they are.
These dates are native to the Middle East and grow best in hot, dry climates. Barhi dates can be enjoyed fresh or dried and are often used in baking, cooking, and as a snack.
Barhi dates contain essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, vitamin A, magnesium, and fiber.
They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from harmful free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Barhi dates are also low in calories and fat, making them an excellent snack choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
Whether you enjoy them fresh or dried, Barhi dates can make a delicious addition to your diet.
17. Zahidi Dates
Zahidi dates are a type of date that is characterized by its oval shape and light golden color.
This date type has a sweet buttery flavor, making it a great choice for snacking or baking.
These dates have a thick and chewy texture and can be eaten dried or in various recipes.
They are low in calories and are rich in dietary fiber, which helps to promote digestive health.
Zahidi dates also provide several minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and iron.
Additionally, they are a good source of antioxidants, which help to protect the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
This list of the different types of dates isn’t complete without the Zahidi Dates!
18. Empress Dates
Empress Dates are a type of date fruit that is grown in the desert regions of Morocco and Tunisia.
They have a creamy, soft texture and a sweet, nutty flavor. Empress Dates are typically sold in their dried form but can also be found as fresh dates or preserved in syrup.
The sweet flavor of Empress Dates, which is also one of the different types of dates, makes them ideal for snacking and baking.
They can be added to oatmeal, granola, trail mix, yogurt, and smoothies or enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat.
Empress Dates are also a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.
19. Iteema Dates
Iteema dates are likewise one of the different types of dates commonly found in the Middle East.
They are small, oval-shaped fruit with a sweet and nutty taste. They have a creamy texture and are a popular snack for those looking for a healthy and delicious treat.
The taste of Iteema dates can range from mildly sweet to quite sugar, depending on their ripeness.
Also, they are packed with essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, iron, potassium, and Vitamin A.
These dates make an excellent addition to smoothies, salads, or baked goods. Due to their size and texture, Iteema dates are best for eating fresh or making juice.
When cooked or processed, these dates tend to break down and lose some of their natural sweetness.
However, they still make an excellent addition to any recipe. As with any date, it’s important to store Iteema dates in a cool, dark place to maintain their optimal freshness and taste.
20. Maktoom Dates
Maktoom dates, also known as Deglet Noor dates, are one of the most popular date varieties in the world.
They are smaller and darker in color than other date varieties. Maktoom dates have a light sweetness with a hint of citrus flavor, making them very popular for eating and baking.
These dates are highly nutritious and provide a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
They also contain natural antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Maktoom dates have a long shelf life when stored properly and make an excellent addition to any diet.
Maktoom dates are widely available in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as in global markets.
They are easy to incorporate into snacks and recipes to add flavor, texture, and nutrition to your dishes.
Whether you eat them whole or add them to your favorite desserts and smoothies, Maktoom dates can be a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without packing on the calories.
21. Kenta Dates
Kenta dates are considered to be the finest and most expensive of all the different types of dates.
They originate from Saudi Arabia and have a sweet yet slightly acidic flavor. They have a long shelf life, making them popular for food service and retail operations.
The exterior has a soft golden color with a slight purplish hue, while the flesh is firm and yellowish.
These dates are an excellent source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals and are often enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.
Kenta dates are available year-round and are usually purchased dried or in syrup form.
They can be used in various dishes, including smoothies, milkshakes, and salads, and served as a snack or dessert.
Meanwhile, they can also be cooked and served with other ingredients to make desserts such as date cake or date cookies.
With their high sugar content and unique flavor, Kenta dates are sure to please anyone’s palate.
22. Khola Dates
Khola dates are among the most popular and widely-cultivated varieties among the different types of dates.
These sweet and fleshy fruits have a unique taste that makes them highly sought after by date lovers worldwide.
They have a deep, rich flavor with a slightly nutty undertone that adds complexity to their taste. Khola dates have dark brown skin and creamy yellow to light brown flesh.
They are considered a semi-dry variety, meaning they are not as sweet as other types of dates.
Khola dates are high in nutrients such as fiber, calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. They are also a good source of vitamins A, C, B6, and E.
23. Mabroom Dates
Mabroom dates are a type of date fruit from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman.
They have a unique dark brown color, and their taste is sweet and pleasant.
These dates are known for their high levels of nutrients, including vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and potassium.
They are one of the different types of dates that also contain a high amount of dietary fiber and antioxidants.
Mabroom dates are an excellent energy source and can be enjoyed fresh or dried as a snack.
They also make a great addition to salads, baked goods, and other recipes.
24. Thoory Dates
Thoory dates are a type of date fruit that originates from Saudi Arabia.
They are considered to be among the most popular dates in the Middle East and are known for their sweet, syrupy taste.
Thoory dates have a reddish-brown color and are oval in shape. They are crunchy when first picked and become softer as they ripen.
They are a very popular ingredient in Middle Eastern desserts and cakes and can also be used to make date syrup or date paste.
Thoory dates are believed to be beneficial to health due to their high levels of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
These dates are harvested during summer and can be found in many grocery and specialty stores. They can also be bought online.
When buying thoory dates, selecting ones that are free from blemishes and have a glossy sheen is important.
The fruit should also be soft and pliable and have a strong aroma. Thoory dates, on this list of different types of dates, are usually eaten on their own or as part of a dessert or cake.
They can also be added to yogurt or cereal for a sweet and nutritious snack.
25. Helwah Dates
Helwah Dates are large, round dates that come from the Middle Eastern country of Iraq. They are known for their sweet taste and firm texture.
Helwah Dates are light brown, with slightly glossy skin. The flesh of these dates is relatively firm and has an extremely sweet flavor.
The seeds in the dates are small and easy to remove, making them ideal for snacking or baking.
Because of their larger size, Helwah Dates are often used for date rolls, date paste, or eaten as-is.
In terms of health benefits, Helwah Dates have a variety of vitamins and minerals such as iron, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
They also contain dietary fiber, which is important for proper digestion.
Additionally, these dates are rich in antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and fight against free radicals.
Whether eaten as a snack or used to make delicious recipes, Helwah Dates are sure to be a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet!
26. Dabbas Dates
Dabbas dates are a popular date variety from Saudi Arabia, known for their rich flavor and high sugar content.
The fruit’s flesh is soft and sweet with a dark amber color. They have a slightly wrinkled appearance and tend to be smaller in size than other varieties of dates.
Dabbas dates are commonly used to make various types of desserts, such as cakes, cookies, and ice cream.
The dates, which are not left out of this list of different types of dates, can also be eaten dried or cooked in syrup.
They have a unique flavor that is different from any other type of date fruit, making them an excellent addition to any dish.
These dates are highly nutritious and contain various minerals and vitamins, including Vitamin C, Potassium, Calcium, Iron, and Magnesium.
They are also packed with dietary fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Eating Dabbas dates regularly can help to regulate blood sugar levels, improve digestion, and reduce cholesterol levels.
In addition, they are a great energy source and can help keep you feeling full for longer.
27. Saidy Dates
Different types of dates? Saidy dates are medium-sized, slightly oval-shaped dates originating from Saudi Arabia.
They have a reddish-brown color and are chewy, sweet, and soft on the inside. Saidy dates are an excellent source of fiber, calcium, and vitamins, making them a healthy snack choice.
They also contain phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium, which help maintain healthy bones and teeth.
The dark skin color and sweetness of the flesh make Saidy dates a popular choice for desserts and for eating out of hand.
Saidy dates can be used in various recipes like smoothies, ice creams, cookies, cakes, and pudding.
They are also popularly used to sweeten a variety of Middle Eastern dishes.
Dates are known for their high sugar content and energy-boosting properties, which makes them a great addition to any diet.
Furthermore, they can be added to salads or mixed with other fruits to create delicious snacks.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a delicious dessert ingredient, Saidy dates are a perfect option!
28. Halawy Dates
Halawy dates are popular Middle Eastern varieties of dates grown in Egypt and Iraq. These dates have a firm texture, sweet taste, and a unique honey-like flavor.
They are large in size, with a deep yellow to reddish-brown color. Halawy dates are usually eaten fresh but can also be dried or used as ingredients in recipes.
The date has a relatively high sugar content and dietary fiber and vitamins. As such, it can be a healthy snack for those looking for an energy boost or a source of nutrition.
Halawy dates can be used in baking, desserts, salads, and even as an ingredient in sauces.
29. Ajwah Dates
Ajwah dates are various types of dates originating from Saudi Arabia.
They are among the most popular date fruits in the world and are often called the “King of Dates” because of their distinctive sweet taste and firm texture.
These dates are large, reddish-brown in color, and have a very soft and chewy texture.
The Ajwah dates have a unique sweet taste that is often compared to caramel or honey.
The dates are also known for their nutritional benefits and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Additionally, they are high in fiber and can help improve digestion.
Ajwah dates can be consumed either fresh or dried. When eaten fresh, these dates are soft and delicious.
Dried Ajwah dates can be enjoyed as a snack or used in recipes such as cakes, cookies, and smoothies. These dates are also commonly used to make jams, chutneys, and other sauces.
Whether fresh or dried, Ajwah dates offer numerous health benefits. They can help reduce blood sugar levels, boost immunity, and aid in weight loss.
Eating Ajwah dates regularly can also provide protection against heart disease and cancer.
30. Medjool Dates
Medjool dates are a type of soft, sweet dates that are one of the most popular and sought-after varieties of dates.
They originated in Morocco and have since become a staple in many diets worldwide.
They are known for their natural sweetness and texture and can be found in many forms, from pitted to dried and even as a spreadable paste.
Medjool dates are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
They are one of the different types of dates and are also a great source of dietary fiber and B vitamins.
As a natural sweetener, they are a great alternative to sugar, providing an added layer of nutrition to meals.
As a dried fruit, Medjool dates can be eaten alone as a snack or used as an ingredient in recipes. They make a great addition to fresh salads, smoothies, and other dishes.
They can be used when baking and making desserts like cakes, cookies, and muffins when dried.
Because of their flavor and versatility, Medjool dates are incredibly popular among chefs and home cooks.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or want to add some natural sweetness to your recipes, Medjool dates are an excellent choice.
31. Safawi Dates
Safawi dates are a type of date fruit native to the Middle East and North Africa. They are known for their dark, wrinkled skin and soft flesh.
They are sweet and flavorful, with a hint of caramel and honey flavors. When ripe, they are golden in color and have a juicy texture.
Safawi dates are an excellent source of dietary fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals.
They can be eaten fresh or dried, used as an ingredient in dishes or jams, and enjoyed in many different ways.
In addition, these dates can be stored for up to six months in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
For those looking to add some extra sweetness to their diet, Safawi dates are a delicious option!
32. Kalmi Dates
Kalmi dates are a type of date that come from the Middle East. These dates are larger than some other types and have a unique sweet flavor similar to honey.
Kalmi dates have a chewy texture and can be eaten fresh or dried. They contain high fiber, protein, and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium.
The seeds can also be used for medicinal purposes. For example, they can be used to reduce fevers or even to treat constipation.
Because of their rich flavor and high nutritional content, Kalmi dates are often used in salads, cakes, puddings, and ice creams.
Additionally, they can be used as a sugar substitute in many recipes. We’ll wrap up our list of the different types of dates here!
Conclusion
Dates are one of the most popular and widely consumed fruits in the world, with a long history that dates back thousands of years. But did you know that many different types of dates vary in taste and texture?
Here, we discussed the different types of dates you may not have heard of and how they can be used in various dishes and recipes.
Read the above to discover the wide array of date fruits that are available for you to enjoy!
