How to choose the best dates
Dates are stored well in order to sell fresh and dried out type. It isn’t always easy to tell the difference between the two, since fresh dates may appear somewhat wrinkly, and both types are generally packed in cellophane or plastic containers. The dates that are commonly available in stores are fresh or partly dried, and do not include any preservatives. So it is very important to choose the best dates out of the fresh and dried.
Both new and dried dates should be smooth-skinned, shiny, and fleshy. They should not be broken, cracked, dry, or shrunken, although they may be slightly wrinkled. Avoid those that smell acerbic or have crystallized sugar on their surface. Dried dates should not be rock hard.
Dates sold as pitted, may seldom contain a pit and the labels on their packages often carry warnings about this possibility. Check each date before you eat it.
What to consider before you buy dates
There are a number of things to consider before you choose the best dates. The main thing before choosing a date is to confirm what you are going to do with the date. Another important thing is to decide who will be eating your creation.
If you’re baking for a load of kids who are not normally known for their support of fine and expensive ingredients, it is decided to use cheaper dates.
For baking most other dishes where large quantities of dates are needed, the dried dates are suitable. They are easy to chop and throw straight into a scone mix or a tagine but if you need them to be more moist, you can soak them in boiling water before use.
And if you only need a small quantity, choose the best dates by spending a few dollars on excellent dates to top a salad, or a cake, can be presented a huge different look, the texture and the taste of your creation.