TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Dates are always a favorite during Ramadan, and it feels like breaking the fast isn't complete without this fruit. Besides being synonymous with breaking the fast, a single date can provide instant energy to overcome fatigue after a day of fasting or strenuous activity. Yes, not only are they rich in nutrients, some date varieties are also considered luxury commodities, with prices that can soar.
This fantastic price is influenced by various factors, with cultivation location being a key determinant. According to a report by Gulf News, inland desert areas with low humidity tend to produce larger, superior-quality dates than coastal areas. Furthermore, post-harvest processes, such as drying techniques and packaging methods, play a significant role in increasing the selling price of dates on the global market.
Here are some of the most expensive and luxurious varieties of dates in the world:
1. Ajwa (Saudi Arabia)
Dubbed the "Sacred Dates of Medina," Ajwa has a soft texture with a caramel flavor and hints of spice. Its limited production and the need for precise irrigation make this date relatively expensive, as reviewed by Travel + Leisure.
2. Medjool (Morocco & global)
Known as the King of Dates, Medjool was once an exclusive treat for royal families. It has a very sweet taste with thick flesh. Originating from the Tafilalt region of Morocco, Medjool is now also cultivated in various other countries.
3. Piarom (Iran)
Often referred to as "chocolate dates," Piarom has a thin skin and a distinctive flavor resembling toffee and burnt caramel. This variety is known for being very exclusive and even sweeter than Barhi and Medjool.
4. Deglet Nour (Algeria)
This variety is nicknamed the Queen of Dates due to its semi-transparent golden yellow color. Its light, honey-like flavor makes it widely used as a natural sweetener. It originates from the Tolga oasis and is now also cultivated in North Africa and the interior oases of the United States.
5. Sukkari (Saudi Arabia)
Having a crunchy texture that melts instantly in the mouth, its name comes from the word "sukkur," meaning sugar, reflecting its high level of sweetness. Sukkari comes in two varieties: the semi-dry Rutab and the fully dry Mufattal, both of which are highly prized premium dates.
6. Khalas (United Arab Emirates & Saudi Arabia)
This type of date is a symbol of Middle Eastern hospitality and is commonly served with Arabic coffee. Its sweetness, balanced with a slightly starchy texture and a touch of creamy, buttery caramel, makes it a favorite at various occasions.
7. Mabroom (Saudi Arabia)
Elongated with a chewy, fibrous texture, Mabroom has a mildly sweet taste with a distinctive toffee finish. The Barari Mabroom date variety is known to be higher in protein and lower in calories, making it suitable for those limiting their sugar intake.
8. Barhi (Iraq)
Barhi's specialty lies in its flexibility in ripening. When unripe, it has a crunchy texture with a mild, apple-like sweetness, but as it ripens, its color darkens and the flavor transforms into a rich caramel and toffee flavor.
9. Safavid (Saudi Arabia)
Often paired with Ajwa, Safawi offers a sweet taste that is balanced and not excessive. Many rate its sweetness level even surpassing that of Medjool, with nutritional content that supports digestive health.
10. Kheanaizi
Known as “Four Everyday Black Dates”, this variety has a lower sweetness level. Not only that, this type of date is also rich in minerals such as iron, potassium and sodium, and contains fiber and amino acids which are good for the digestive system.
Read: 10 of the Most Expensive Dates in the World to Enjoy During Ramadan
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