Dates

Dates are the small oblong fruits of the date palm. They fall into three types: soft, semidry, and dry. Soft dates have a soft flesh with high moisture content, and low sugar content; Semidry ones have firm flesh, moderate moisture content; Dry ones have dry, and hard flesh, both semidry and dry dates have high sugar content. The Chinese often add dates in soups, for its good for health.

Dates

Fresh dates are in season in the late fall, but you can find dried dates stored in plastic bags in supermarkets year-round.

When choosing dates, select plump, soft ones with smooth skin. Remember to steer clear of shriveled ones or those with mould on the skin.

Soften the dried dates by soaking in warm water for 20 minutes, or until tender, then slit lengthwise, remove the hard seed. Dates are eaten out-of-hand, or stuffed with almonds, cheese, or walnuts. You can also find dates In Chinese soups.

Put fresh dates in plastic bags can refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Or put dried ones in an airtight container, place in a cool, and dry place, which can help to keep for up to 6 months, or if you put the container in a refrigerator, it will last for up to a year or so.

Dates may be administered for sore throat, colds, bronchial catarrh, and taken to relieve fever.

Dates soup