Dates are a popular fruit that is high in fiber and potassium. They can be eaten raw, baked, or used to make desserts such as date squares and date balls. Dates must be stored correctly to maintain freshness. If they are not stored properly, they will spoil quickly. The following are some ways to store dates for an extended period of time.
How to store dates at home?
Fresh dates can be stored at room temperature for about 1-2 weeks.
Protected from sun light with an opaque plastic bag or container
Dates will last up to 3 months if stored in the fridge, they’ll plump up but become firmer and sweeter. They can also be stored in the freezer for use within 6 months.
Freezer packs are readily available that slow down any change of texture or taste. Be sure all air is squeezed out of the pack before freezing your fruit. To defrost, simply leave it on the counter at room temperature until soft enough to cut open without breaking apart (usually 2-3 hours).
How do you keep dates from drying out?
I always put them in an airtight container with some honey and toasted sesame seeds and it seems to work great.
An airtight container works best. Keep it out of the sun, too, your dates otherwise will dry up! Store unopened packages of dates at room temperature or refrigerate for longer storage. I recommend using a freezer bag lined with parchment paper – you can freeze individual serving sizes this way and add about 1 tablespoon of honey when ready to eat (it helps return freshness).
Do dates need to be refrigerated after opening?
Dates can be stored at room temperature until they are past their season, though it is best to refrigerate them once opened if you do not intend on using them within a few days.
Can I store dates in a jar?
It’s not necessary to store them this way, but freezing your dates (if you don’t want to eat them right away) will keep them fresh for much longer than the usual refrigerator storing method. Frozen fruit is recommended by many people because of its low cost and convenience; if you buy produce at the peak of harvest season, there are miles traveled before the produce is finally available for purchase (namely last mile).
Do dates need to be washed?
Dates that are imported into the United States are usually washed; however, they should still be rinsed with water before eating. If “the box doesn’t say” they were washed, it is recommended to rinse the dates in water, drain off any excess water and wrap them tightly in plastic or tinfoil. You can also buy individually wrapped pitted dates or dates with seeds removed.
Another great option for avoiding wetness is to purchase your dates from a bulk bins refrigerated by dry ice so you can finish as much as you want at once – no need for refrigeration – just eat!
Conclusion
Dates are a great sweetener for cereal, desserts, and baked goods. They’re also a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin B6. It is important to know how to store dates in order to prevent them from going bad. Here we’ve shown you some tips on how to store dates properly.
See Also: How to Transition to a Plant-Based Diet and How to Eat Vegan on a Budget
