OMedjool dates are very large, extremely sweet and exceptionally meaty. The glossy brown skin is tender and supple and encases dark amber interior. Slightly chewy and succulent, the meaty pulp surrounds an elongated pit that is occasionally removed before packaging. The Medjool is usually left to ripen on the tree so as to maximize its natural sugar development; echoing flavors of caramel, honey and cinnamon.
Dried Medjool dates are available year-round.
The date palm is in the family Arecaceae and the Medjool is a variety of date botanically classified as Phoenix dactylifera. Medjool dates originated in Morocco where they are also known as Mejhool dates. Considered to be the "king of dates" or the "crown jewel of dates", Medjools have earned such a reputation because of their superior flavor, consistency, size and availability. Of the three types of dates, dry, semi-dry and soft, the Medjool is considered to be a soft variety.
Medjool dates are highly nutritious and a rich source of dietary fiber. They contain iron, potassium, B-vitamins, flavonoids, antioxidants and almost all twenty amino acids. One cup of dates has about 500 calories, 4.5 grams of protein and around 135 carbohydrates.
The large size and meaty texture of the Medjool date makes it a perfect candidate for stuffing. Once pitted, they are easily filled with either sweet or savory combinations such as almonds, walnuts, pistachio, candied orange and lemon peel, marzipan, goat cheese, blue cheese and bacon. The Medjool adds a pleasant chewy texture and sweet element to green salads, rice dishes, stuffing for poultry or pork, bread dough and other baked goods. They hold their texture well in both raw and cooked applications yet still blend beautifully into purees. The Medjool is an easy to use, all-around go to date for almost any recipe.
