Dried Dates

Dried dates are the fruit of the date palm, dried so they keep well, with a dense, chewy texture and a naturally sweet taste. In Lebanese homes they are often eaten on their own alongside coffee or tea, offered to guests, and used to break the fast during Ramadan. They also find their way into baking and desserts, serve as a filling for pastries such as maamoul, and can be chopped into oats, yogurt or salads or blended into drinks. Dried dates are sold by the kilo at Dekenet Al Nes in Baaqline, in the Chouf. As a package-free grocery store, Dekenet Al Nes encourages customers to bring their own containers or bags and take just the amount they need, which helps cut down on plastic waste and single-use packaging.