CONTENTS

• What are the properties of date syrup?
• Use of date syrup
• Homemade date syrup
• Who should not use date syrup – contraindications

Date syrup, also known as date honey, is a concentrated juice extracted from the fruit of the date palm, which is grown primarily in the Middle East (but also in Africa and the United States). Both dates and date syrup are very popular there and are used daily in cooking. Syrup is added to tea, cakes, desserts, and traditional dishes. In Poland, we are mainly familiar with the dried form of dates, while we are just beginning to get used to date syrup. So let's take a look at why this product is worth getting to know and how to use it.

What are the properties of date syrup?

Date syrup is dark, thick, and sticky. It has a pleasant, intensely sweet flavor with a slightly perceptible date aroma. It can be used as a sugar substitute, and most interestingly, its very important benefit is that it doesn't just supply the body with empty calories like white sugar. Furthermore, although very sweet, date syrup contains fewer calories than white sugar. The syrup is also a source of valuable minerals and nutrients for the human body. Its composition includes, among others:

• Potassium,
• Calcium,
• Magnesium,
• Vitamins A, C and E,
• B vitamins,
• Lutein and polyphenols .

Use of date syrup

Date syrup can be considered a healthier substitute for white sugar and can be added to tea. It can also be used to sweeten porridge, as well as natural yogurt and smoothies. It tastes great with all kinds of sweet cakes, waffles, and pancakes. You can also use it as an ice cream topping. It also works well in baking cakes, cookies, and gingerbread. It's also an excellent substitute for natural honey and can be used by people who are allergic to bee products. Interestingly, sweet date syrup is used in dry, spicy, and oriental dishes and salads, as well as in sauces and marinades.

Homemade date syrup

Nowadays, date syrup is readily available, even in organic form. However, if you have the time and enjoy preparing various specialties in the kitchen, you can also make it yourself at home. Simply pour a jar of dried dates (approx. 250 g) with water (approx. 0.5 l) and let it steep for 2 hours. After this time, cover the soaked fruits and simmer over low heat until they begin to completely disintegrate. Once cooled, puree the mixture, strain it, and pour it into a bottle or jar. Ready-made homemade syrup must be stored in the refrigerator. When making your own date syrup, make sure the dates you buy are organic and do not contain added sulfur, which is often added to dried fruits to preserve their intense color.

Who should not use date syrup – contraindications

The use of date syrup is generally safe, but there are contraindications for its use in certain groups. First of all, date syrup is not recommended for people with insulin resistance and diabetics. Its glycemic index is very high (GI=54). Furthermore, people with a date allergy should not consume it.