Dates
Dates are small oblong fruits of the date palm. They fall into three categories: soft, semidry, and dry. Soft ones have a soft flesh with high moisture content, while low in sugar content; Semidry dates have firm flesh, moderate moisture content; Dry ones have dry hard flesh, both semidry and dry dates are high in sugar content. In Chinese cooking, dates are usually added into soups, as the health benefits.
Season:
Fresh dates are in season in the late fall, but you can find dried ones stored in plastic bags in supermarkets or Asian stores year-round.
Purchasing tips:
When choosing, select sofy, plump ones with smooth skin. Steer clear of shriveled ones or those with mould on the skin.
Usage:
Soften the dried dates by soaking in warm water for about 20 minutes, or until tender, then slit lengthwise and then discard the hard seed inside. Dates are eaten out-of-hand, or stuffed with almonds, cheese, or walnuts.
Storage:
Put fresh dates in plastic bags can refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. You can also put dried ones in airtight containers, and store in a cool dry place, which can help to keep for up to 6 months, or if you put the container in refrigerator, it will last for up to a year or so.
Nutritional and Health benefits:
Dates may be administered for sore throat, colds, bronchial catarrh, and taken to relieve fever.
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