Iranian Dates: A Comprehensive List with Descriptions
Dates, the sweet and nutritious fruits of the date palm tree, have been cultivated in the Middle East for centuries. Iran, with its diverse climate and fertile soil, is a major producer of dates, boasting an abundance of varieties that differ in taste, texture, shape, and color. In this article, we explore the top 10 most popular Iranian dates and introduce a few lesser-known varieties.
Top 10 Iranian Dates
- Mazafati / Kimia / Bam: These dates are known for their delicate texture, honey-like flavor, and deep brown to black color. They are often eaten fresh or used in desserts.
- Pyarom / Piarom: This type of date is characterized by its thin skin and unique taste. It is slightly drier than Mazafati dates and has a slightly lower moisture content.
- Zahedi / Zahidi: These dates are light brown in color and have a soft, chewy texture. They are often used in making date vinegar and alcohol.
- Rabbi: This variety of date is large and oval-shaped, with a dark brown, shiny skin. It has a semi-dry texture and a mellow sweet flavor.
- Lulu: These dates are small and round, with a dark brown color. They have a semi-dry texture and a sweet flavor similar to Pyarom dates.
- Sayer / Estamaran: This variety of date is oval-shaped and reddish brown in color. It has a semi-dry texture and a high sugar content.
- Kabkab: These dates are oval-shaped and have a semi-dry texture. They are often used in making date molasses.
- Kali / Kaliteh / Kaloute: These dates are similar to Mazafati dates but have a lower moisture level, sweetness, and darker color.
- Barhi: These dates are small and golden yellow in color. They have a sweet flavor that is ripe. However, the sweetness varies as per ripeness.
- Medjool: These dates are known as the “queen of dates” and are prized for their honey-like flavor and soft texture.