Dates are a popular and naturally sweet fruit that people around the world enjoy. Medjool dates and pitted dates are two common types of dates in the market. Although they look similar, they are not exactly the same.
What is the difference between Medjool dates and pitted dates? Medjool dates are a specific variety of dates that are large and have a soft texture and rich caramel-like flavor. Pitted dates, on the other hand, simply refer to any dates that have had their seed (or pits) removed.
Key Areas Covered
1. What are Medjool Dates
– Definition, Features
2. What are Pitted Dates
– Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Medjool Dates and Pitted Dates
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Medjool Dates and Pitted Dates
– Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Medjool Dates and Pitted Dates
– Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Key Terms
Dates, Medjool Dates, Pitted Dates
What are Medjool Dates
Medjool dates are a large, sweet type of fruit that comes from the date palm tree. Unlike what many people think, Medjool dates are not dried fruit. They are actually a fresh fruit. They’re picked from the tree, then cleaned, sorted, and packaged without any drying or processing. They are generally in the produce section of the grocery store. To keep Medjool dates fresh, you can store them in your pantry. But they’ll stay softer and juicier for longer if you keep them in the fridge or freezer.
These dates have a rich, caramel-like flavor and soft, chewy texture. Therefore, they are different from regular dates like Deglet Noor, which are smaller, firmer, and have a lighter, more delicate taste.
Medjool dates originally come from the Tafilalt region in Morocco. However, today they are also grown in the U.S., Israel, Palestine, Iran, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Jordan. They’re one of the most popular varieties. In fact, they make up about 25% of the global date trade.
What are Pitted Dates
Pitted dates are just regular dates that have had their hard inner seed (or pit) removed. This makes them easier to eat and cook with. The pit can be taken out by hand using a knife or by machines in larger factories. At the same time, they try to keep the soft fruit as whole as possible.
People love pitted dates because they are ready to eat straight from the package. You don’t have to do any extra work to remove the pit. Therefore, you can use them as a quick snack or an easy ingredient in cooking or baking.
Even without the pit, pitted dates still have the same sweet flavor and chewy texture. However, they can sometimes become a bit dry or shriveled. If that happens, you can soak them in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes. This makes them soft and plump again.
Similarities Between Medjool Dates and Pitted Dates
- Both are real dates that come from the date palm tree.
- They are sweet and chewy.
- Both are healthy and offer natural sugar, fiber, and nutrients.
- They can be used in baking, smoothies, or energy bites.
Difference Between Medjool Dates and Pitted Dates
Definition
- Medjool dates are a specific variety of date that is large, soft, and very sweet, whereas pitted dates simply means the pit (seed) has been removed, and can be any variety, including Medjool.
Texture and Taste
- Medjool dates are soft, chewy, and taste like caramel, while pitted dates can be soft or dry, depending on the type and storage.
Freshness
- Medjool dates are usually sold as a fresh fruit, while pitted dates are often dried and found in packages, sometimes in the baking aisle.
FAQ: Medjool Dates and Pitted Dates
1. Are Medjool dates better than pitted dates?
Medjool dates are fresh, soft, and very sweet, while pitted dates are just regular dates after the removal of seeds. You can even buy pitted Medjool dates.
2. Can pitted dates be substituted for Medjool dates?
Yes, you can use pitted dates instead of Medjool dates, but they may be smaller, drier, and less sweet. If needed, you can soak them in warm water to make them softer and easier to use.
3. Are whole Medjool dates pitted?
No, whole Medjool dates are not generally pitted. They still have the hard seed (pit) inside. If you need them without the pit, look for packages labeled “pitted Medjool dates.”
4. Which date is better, ajwa or Medjool?
Ajwa dates are smaller, less sweet, and have religious value, while Medjool dates are bigger, softer, and very sweet.
Reference:
1. “Everything You Need to Know About Medjool Dates.” Eating Bird Food.
2. “What Are Pitted Dates?” Joolies – California Superfood.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Świeży daktyle odmiany MEDJOOL” By ORGANIChouse – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Pitted dates” By I, BrokenSphere (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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