History and Major Characteristics of Barhi Dates
Are you searching for a comprehensive guide to Barhi dates? The Barhi date, also popularly known as Barhee, is a luscious, juicy and luxurious date variety loved by many around the world. Interestingly, in the Arabic language, this date is called "Khalal". Its beautiful sweet taste and succulent texture have made it a popular delicacy in European, Asian and Arabian countries.The name "Barhi" has an interesting origin. It is derived from the Arabic word "Barh," which means "Hot Wind". This name came from the fact that the Barhi date originated in a place where hot winds were frequent, and they played a crucial role in ripening the fruit. It is believed that Barhi dates have been cultivated in Iraq for centuries and have recently gained a global reach. Unlike other date varieties, Barhi dates have a unique shape and color. As a result, food lovers get curious about trying this exceptional fruit. Moreover, Barhi dates come in three ripeness stages -- Khalal or Khark, Rutab and Tamar. From Khalal's semi-ripe stage to Tamar's slightly dried and wrinkled stage, they offer a distinctive taste, which is worth relishing. One of the fascinating aspects of Barhi dates is that they can be consumed early in the Khalal stage which is rare among date varieties.
Barhi Dates are a type of fruit that is categorized as being fresh. These delicious dates contain a maximum of 80% moisture, making them the perfect snack for those who enjoy a slightly moist texture. The shape of these dates is typically round with curved and blunt ends. The color of Barhi Dates varies depending on the stage of ripeness. When they are in the Khalal stage, they have a beautiful golden yellow color. As they mature, they turn into a lovely Amber color known as the Rutab stage. When fully ripe, the dates take on a light brown color known as the Tamar stage.
The taste of Barhi Dates is naturally sweet, with a delightful caramel-like flavor that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The texture of the skin is smooth, thick, and has a matte finish with a fibrous consistency. When fully ripe, the skin is slightly wrinkled. The flesh of Barhi Dates is soft, thick, and has a crunchy apple-like texture. This flesh fully clings to the core but can be separated easily if desired.
Barhi Dates are typically small to medium in size, weighing approximately 8 grams and measuring 2-4 cm in length. They have a shelf time of 4-5 days at room temperature. However, they can last a few weeks in a cool, dry place such as a refrigerator.
Barhi Dates, a Good and Healthy Diet
Barhi dates are an exceptionally nutritious fruit, offering a variety of benefits for your health and wellbeing. Not only are they a delicious snack, but they are also packed full of essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function at its best. For example, these dates are a rich source of potassium and magnesium, which can help to boost your energy levels and regulate blood pressure. Additionally, they are high in fiber, which can aid in digestion, promote healthy skin, and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. These incredible fruits also contain minerals like calcium and phosphorus, essential for strong bones, and provide your body with antioxidants, known for reducing cholesterol levels and preventing constipation. Furthermore, Barhi dates are an excellent choice for pregnant women due to their high folate content. So why not add some Barhi dates to your diet today and enjoy their many benefits as a natural and tasty alternative to processed sugars? Whether you include them in savory or sweet dishes, they are sure to make a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal!
Item | Description |
|---|---|
All Names | Barhi, Barhee, Khalal |
Category | Fresh |
Moisture | Max 80% |
Shape | Round, Curved and blunt ends, Sometimes it has a piece of the stem still attached |
Color | Khalal (Semi-ripe): golden yellow Rutab (Fully-ripe): amber Tamar (Slightly dried and wrinkled): light brown |
Taste | Sweet, Caramel-like |
Skin | Smooth, Thick, Matte, Fibrous consistency, Slightly wrinkled when they are fully ripe |
Flesh | Soft, Thick, Crunchy apple-like texture, Fully cling to the core (can be separated easily) |
Kernel | One Core, Oval, Hard |
Weight | Around 8 gr |
Size | Small to medium |
Length | 2-4 cm |
Harvest Time | Khark: first half of August Fully ripe: late September |
Shelf Life | 4-5 days at room temperature, A few weeks in a cool and dry place like the refrigerator |