How to Make Date Paste: A Healthy Sweetener Alternative
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Date paste is a healthy natural alternative sweetener and an excellent substitute in baked goods. A perfect smoothie add-in for natural sweetness.
Let’s talk about dates. What are they first if all? Dates are tree grown fruits found in the Middle East. These delectable fruits grow on date palm trees in clusters similar to grapes. They are distinctively sweet with a sticky squishy flesh and shiny wrinkly outer skin.
The taste is really good but can be a bit too sweet to eat in abundance in my opinion. You will often find recipes using them as a sweetener for that reason. Some people add a savory element to the dates just to cut the sweetness. But that sweetness is what makes them perfect for a sugar alternative.
Now y’all know I’m in no way against sugar. I use it without shame. But there are times when I make a choice to limit processed sugar as much as possible. During those times, I rely on natural sweeteners like dates.
Types of Dates
There are several types of dates and to be honest, I’m not very versed in any of them. I do know however that I use the most commonly found date which is the Medjool date. Other varieties have different tastes and range in sweetness according to Harvest to Table.
Sweets with Benefits
Dates are also really nutrient rich and fibrous. These tiny fruits are packed with vitamins that provide all sorts of benefits. Potassium, vitamin B6, iron, and magnesium are just a few of the many nutrients found in dates for a healthy diet. Dates have also been proven to fight inflammation and provide cell protection from antioxidants. (Source)
How to Make Date Paste
Making date paste couldn’t be easier. It requires dates, water, and a blender.
First I remove the pits. Then cover them with hot water to soak for a few hours. Once they’ve softened, I pour everything into a blender and blend until smooth.
Watch out for Bad Dates
No, not that kind, lol. I mean the dates that are dried out. The sugars are pretty much crusted over and crumbly. Be sure to toss those out. If you have more than a few in a container, I would suggest taking the whole container back for a replacement.
Storage
Storing the date paste in a glass jar with lid will keep in the fridge for a couple of weeks.
Date Paste
Ingredients
- 1 lb medjool dates pitted
- 1 1/2 c hot water
Instructions
- Remove the pits from the dates. Place them in a bowl and cover them water. Let them soak for 2-4 hours. Add the dates and the soaking liquid to a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Store the date paste in a glass jar with a lid. It will keep in the fridge for a couple of weeks.