Fresh dates

Also called: Timir qoyan (Soomaali) · Dattes fraîches (Français) · بلح طازج (العربية)

What to look for

Fresh dates should be plump and shiny with tight skin. Yellow or red ones are crunchy and slightly astringent; half-brown ones are turning soft and sweet. Avoid any that are leaking, sour-smelling or mouldy.