Best Substitute For Pitted Dates
What can I use in place of dates in a recipe?
- Date paste
- Prunes
- Cranberries
- Cherries
- Rasins
Dates are a common fruit that comes from the Middle East. If you look for dates, you will discover that they come in many forms and may be substituted for one another. They have various dimensions and have a delicate texture with a sweet flavor. Dates are eaten worldwide, and they are used in place of sugar in savory dishes or baked products. They can also be made into a paste that is used in cooking.
Dates are very popular as snacks or desserts. You will often find them at grocery stores and convenience stores. They are available as fresh dates or dry dates. Dried dates are usually pitted and then stored in airtight containers. However, if you do not have any on hand or want to try something different in your recipe, is there a way to substitute the flavor of pitted dates? Well, of course!
You can substitute pitted dates with either date paste, prunes, dried cranberries, dried cherries, medjool dates, dried raisins, or dried figs. But before we get into that, let us get to know what dates are all about.
What are Dates?
Date is a common type of fruit that grows in the Middle East. It has been cultivated since ancient times. The name “date” comes from the Arabic word “dahyat,” meaning “fruit.” Dates grow on trees and are harvested when fully ripe. There are two varieties of dates: soft and hard. Soft dates are more common than hard ones. Hard dates are considered superior because they are firmer and sweeter.
Soft dates are generally smaller than hard dates. They have an orange-yellow color and smooth skin. On average, they weigh around 4 grams per piece. Soft dates are good sources of fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. They also contain a lot of water. This makes them perfect for keeping you hydrated throughout the day.
Hard dates are larger than soft dates. They have a yellowish color and rough skin. On average, hard dates weigh around 5 grams each. These fruits are higher in calories than soft dates but still provide health benefits. Hard dates are a good source of iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc, copper, phosphorus, manganese, and vitamin B6.
What Can You Substitute for Medjool Dates?
Don’t worry if you find it difficult to replace dates because of their natural sweetness and bulk. We’ve discovered the best substitutes so that you may preserve your meal while still providing the most delicious and appealing aroma.
Date Paste
This is a mixture of ground dates and spices. It can be used in baking recipes, sauces, and dressings. Date paste is easy to make and does not require much effort. All you need to do is combine equal parts of dates and spices. Add some salt and pepper to taste. Then grind the ingredients together using a food processor or blender.
Once you’ve finished, double-check that there aren’t any other items in the jar that could contaminate the paste. Before putting it into a container, remove leaves and pits, for example. You can keep your date paste in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze it indefinitely.
Prunes
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to dates, you should consider trying prune juice instead. Prunes are made from plums and are high in fiber, nutrients, and antioxidants. They are also low in sugar content and fat.
To prepare them, simply soak them overnight in warm water. Next, drain and rinse the prunes thoroughly. Once they have cooled down, blend them in a food processor until they form a fine powder. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Dried Cranberries
When making cakes, try replacing dates with dried cranberries, which have a similar texture and flavor to soft fruits but a hint of sourness on top. Blueberries are excellent for diabetics since they have low levels of iron.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using this fruit as a complement to other sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of regular ones. The same may be said about dried blueberries.
Dried Cherries
Cherries are another great option for a date replacement and for reducing their intake of added sugar and refined carbohydrates. They are very high in fiber and antioxidants. They also work as natural sweeteners in food and drinks. Dried cherries are available at most grocery stores. Put them in a bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them sit for 10 minutes before draining and rinsing them under cold running water. Dry them completely by placing them in a single layer on paper towels. When dry, store them in an airtight jar or plastic bag.
Medjool dates
Medjool dates are a common type of date whose use in recipes may be substituted for traditional dates. Medjool dates are softer than regular dates, but they are very similar in terms of taste and texture. The flavor of these dates is richer and chewier than the others. In most of the recipes that state for normal dates, you may use equal amounts. However, when substituting Medjool dates, you’ll need to add 1/3 cup more. This will compensate for the difference in moisture content between the two types of dates.
Dried Raisins
Raisins are one of the easiest substitutes for dates and one of the oldest known foods and were originally cultivated in Persia. Raisins are a good source of fiber, potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, iron, and copper. They contain no cholesterol, saturated fats, trans fats, or sodium. They are also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals.
The best way to make raisin cookies is to mix together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add butter and eggs, then stir in raisins. Bake them at 350°F (180°C) for 15–20 minutes.
You can use raisins as a substitute for dates in many recipes. Just remember to increase the number of raisins by 1/3 cup so that they don’t get too mushy.
Dried Figs
Figs are a popular snack all over the world. They are usually eaten fresh, but they can also be used in baked goods. They are high in fiber, calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and C. They are also rich manganese, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium sources.
To make figs into a healthy snack:
- Cut them lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Place them on a dehydrator tray lined with parchment paper and let them dry out for 4 hours at 110°F (45°C).
- Store them in an airtight container until needed. You can also freeze them.
You can also give the figs a special flavor with a dash of coconut oil.