TIPS

1

To remove the pit from a date, make a small cut on the end and squeeze the pit out. Alternatively, cut the date through the long side and remove pit with the tip of a knife.

2

To boost flavour and moisture, dried dates can be coated in honey or soaked in a liquid such as tea or various types of alcohol.

3

It is best to store both fresh and dried dates in the refrigerator. In an airtight container, fresh dates can last up to two weeks, while dried dates can last up to a year.

4

When purchasing dates, look for ones that have a shiny, smooth skin and avoid those that appear shrivelled or have sugar crystals on their surface.