Emirati Al Madrooba Delight (Print Version)

A smooth, creamy blend of dates and ghee offering a rich, flavorful breakfast boost.

# What You 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 Make:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes barely 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for mornings when you need something sustaining but have no time.
  • The creamy, luxurious texture comes from just three ingredients—there's no fuss, no fancy technique required.
  • It's naturally sweet and satisfying, filling you with steady energy instead of the crash that comes from refined sugar.
02 -
  • The mashing is what creates the creamy texture—don't skip this step or use high heat expecting it to work faster; low heat and patience turn dates into silk.
  • If your dates seem too dry or the paste won't smooth out, add a tiny splash of warm water, one teaspoon at a time, to loosen it without making it runny.
03 -
  • Don't use a food processor for the entire process—mashing by hand in the warm ghee is what creates the silky, luxurious texture that makes this dish special.
  • Serve it warm with flatbread that's still slightly soft, and the bread will catch every golden spoonful, making breakfast feel like an occasion.
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