Date syrup, also known as date honey or date molasses, has deep roots that are closely linked to Middle Eastern and North African cultures dating back thousands of years.
Date syrup is an integral part of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine. It is used to sweeten food, desserts and drinks. It is also used as a natural alternative to refined sugar.
Benefits:
Nutrition – Date syrup is rich in essential nutrients such as potassium, magnesium and iron. It is also a source of natural sugars, mainly glucose and fructose, which provide a fast energy supply.
Digestion – this syrup is a source of fibre, which aids digestion and can help with constipation.
Natural sweetener – unlike refined sugar, date syrup retains its natural vitamin and mineral properties.
Antioxidants – contains antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids and phenolic acid derivatives, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
High sugar content, colouring:
Although date syrup contains natural sugars, excessive consumption can lead to problems such as weight gain and high blood sugar levels. Date syrup has a lower glycaemic index than refined sugar, but diabetics still need to watch their intake.
Usage:
Date bars – blend chopped dates, sunflower seeds, oats, cinnamon and date syrup. Place the mixture in a mould, smooth and cut into bars. Refrigerate until firm and ready to eat.
Date sweetener – add date syrup to a cup of warm drink to taste. Mix and enjoy the natural and delicious sweetness.
Date dessert – bake apples in the oven with cinnamon and a little date syrup until soft and juicy. Serve with vanilla ice cream.
Date cake – add date syrup instead of refined sugar to baked goods or cakes for a natural sweetness and delicate date flavour.
Date marinade – make a date syrup marinade by mixing dates with a mixture of oil, vinegar, garlic and herbs. Marinate vegetables before roasting or grilling to give them a delicate sweetness and flavour.
Date and nut snack – mix date syrup with cashew or almond butter and spread thinly on crackers or bread. Garnish with chopped nuts and seeds.
Children will love flavoured porridge or pancakes with a little date syrup.
