Emirati Al Madrooba Delight (Printable Version)

Smooth blend of sweet dates and ghee creates a rich, creamy spread perfect for breakfast or snacks.

# What You'll Need:

→ Date Paste

01 - 14 oz pitted Medjool dates, soft and fresh

→ Fat

02 - 3 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)

→ Flavoring (optional)

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

# Directions:

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. Mash and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture softens and forms a thick, smooth paste.
04 - Sprinkle in ground cardamom and a pinch of sea salt if using. Stir until well combined and the paste is glossy and creamy.
05 - Remove the pan from heat and let the paste cool slightly before serving.
06 - Enjoy warm or at room temperature with fresh flatbread or as a spoonable spread.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes 15 minutes total but tastes like you've been cooking all morning.
  • One bowl, one spoon, and you've got a breakfast that feels indulgent and grounding at the same time.
  • The dates do the heavy lifting here—no complicated technique, just patience and good ghee.
02 -
  • Low heat is non-negotiable—high temperature will scorch your ghee and make the dates taste bitter instead of luxurious, and there's no fixing that.
  • The paste will thicken even more as it cools, so don't panic if it seems loose on the stove; trust the process and pull it off heat while it's still slightly softer than you think it should be.
03 -
  • If you want extra-smooth paste, blend your dates briefly in a food processor before cooking—it cuts the stirring time in half and delivers a silkier result.
  • Save the ghee jar for next time: this recipe only uses three tablespoons, so you'll have plenty left for other dishes, and the lingering date flavor makes everything better.
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