Ajwa dates are known to originate from Medina, Saudi Arabia, and are often referred to as holy dates. They have been consumed for over 8,000 years in Arabia.
They are blackish, round in shape, and firm in texture. Ajwa dates have a chocolate amber taste that goes well with a cup of coffee or tea. These dates are very unique in taste and a great option for a healthy snack.
Flavor & Texture
Ajwa dates have notes of chocolate, amber, and caramel. They are not overly sweet nor overly mushy like Sukkari dates. Depending on the amount of time these dates have been stored, they can be drier and less moist.
These dates have a color similar to prunes and a texture similar to raisins.
Ajwa vs. Medjool
Ajwa dates are smaller in size than Medjool dates. They are also darker in color, rounder in shape, and less sweet. I wouldn't say that one is better than the other, they are just different in taste and texture.
Where To Find Ajwa Dates
If you live in the Gulf region, these dates are fairly easy to find. I live in Abu Dhabi, and I can find them at the grocery store, date market, Bateel, etc.
If you live in the US or can receive shipments internationally, Amazon US sells Ajwa dates on their website. I have not found these dates in the grocery store, but you might get lucky at a specialty Middle Eastern grocery store.
How To Eat
I prefer eating these dates just as they are. I don't find them particularly sweet enough to add to my strawberry banana smoothie, nor are they moist enough to use for the cookie dough date balls. I've enjoyed eating these dates with a pour-over Columbian medium roast black coffee and also with a Moroccan mint tea. Dried dates are nature's candy, after all, so you don't really need to dress them up in order to enjoy them.
Sometimes, I eat these dates with a few pieces of dark chocolate when I'm really craving something sweet. Or, I eat these dates along with a few other date varieties. When I eat these next to other types of dates, I can really tell a difference in their flavor and taste.
How To Store
Store these dates in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months, or in the fridge for up to 6 months. Another way of storing these dates is in the freezer for up to a year.
Sue says
I bought some dates at the Gilgamesh Bakery in Springfield, Virginia (great little place, by the way--yummy prepared foods and a nice selection of groceries), and I'd never had that type before. The person at the cash register didn't know what type they were, but based on your description here, I'm sure they were Ajwa dates--I just LOVED them and will be seeking them out again. Thanks so much!
Lily says
There are so many types of dates, which I was unaware of, until living in the Gulf region. I fell in love with going to the date market in Abu Dhabi and trying all of the different types of dates. Mabroom, khalas, and ajwa dates are my favorite besides Medjool!
Jenny says
I absolutely love the taste of ajwa dates. It’s unique and kind of chocolate like in taste. I tried these on my trip to the UAE, and I found some in a niche grocery store. They were a little drier but also delicious.
Lily says
The dates in the UAE are the best I've had. I've also liked Saudi dates. I can find some great Medjool dates at Costco, but I've struggled to find good Ajwa dates.