Emirati Al Madrooba Delight (Print Version)

Creamy blend of dates and ghee with cardamom for a rich and energizing start to your day.

# What You'll Need:

→ Date Paste

01 - 14 oz pitted Medjool dates (soft and fresh preferred)

→ Fat

02 - 3 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)

→ Flavoring (optional)

03 - 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
04 - Pinch of sea salt

# How To:

01 - If using whole dates, remove pits and chop coarsely.
02 - In a medium nonstick pan, melt the ghee over low heat.
03 - Add the dates to the pan. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mash and stir continuously for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture softens and forms a thick, smooth paste.
04 - Sprinkle ground cardamom and sea salt, if using. Stir until fully incorporated and the paste becomes glossy and creamy.
05 - Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
06 - Enjoy warm or at room temperature with fresh flatbread or by the spoonful.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in minutes, transforming humble ingredients into something that tastes like comfort itself.
  • The natural sweetness of dates means you're eating pure energy without any processed sugar.
  • One batch lasts days in the refrigerator, making mornings feel easier when you already have this waiting.
02 -
  • High heat is your enemy here—it can make the dates grainy and the ghee separate, so resist the urge to hurry and keep that flame low and patient.
  • The paste thickens as it cools, so what looks a little loose in the pan will set beautifully once it reaches room temperature.
03 -
  • Room-temperature ghee is easier to work with than cold, so let it sit on the counter for a few minutes before you start cooking.
  • The moment the paste turns glossy and pulls away from the sides of the pan slightly is when you know it's done—don't overthink it or cook it longer than necessary.
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