Ask ten date lovers which is better and you will get ten passionate answers. We think the honest answer is: they are different, and both deserve a place in your pantry.
Ajwa
Small, almost black and gently wrinkled. Ajwa is soft but not sticky, with a mild, prune-like sweetness and a faint dry finish. It is traditionally eaten a few at a time, often first thing in the morning. Ours come in a 400 g gift tin that makes an elegant Eid or Diwali present.
Medjool
Large, plump and amber-brown, with a rich caramel and honey flavour. One Medjool is practically a dessert on its own. Our Medjool Dates come from the Jordan Valley and are packed soft, never dried out.
How to serve them
- Stuff a Medjool with a Mamra almond for an instant festive sweet.
- Blend two Medjool dates into a banana smoothie instead of sugar.
- Serve Ajwa simply, with a glass of water or warm milk.
Storage
Keep dates in an airtight container in a cool cupboard for up to a month, or in the fridge for up to six. Bring them to room temperature before eating — they taste far sweeter.
