Hilwah Al-Jouf Dates: A Staple On Ramadan Iftar Tables In The Al-Jouf Region

Al-Jouf is famous for its rich date production, offering over eleven types grown on its farms. These dates are celebrated annually at a festival in Dumat Al Jandal. The National Center for Palm and Dates reports that Al-Jouf has 984,048 palm trees, with 798,649 being productive, yielding 43,203 tons of dates.

During Ramadan, dates are essential for breaking the fast at iftar tables. Hilwah Al-Jouf dates are preserved after harvest through cleaning, pit removal, and drying. They are then packed into large containers weighing up to 15 kg or smaller packs for daily use. Known for their large size, these dates are also made into a molasses-like treat called Al-Majrash.

Families proudly serve Hilwah Al-Jouf at iftar and often share them with relatives and neighbors. Farmer Marwan Al-Mofarij highlights the increased demand for these dates during Ramadan as they are a cherished part of the meal. They are typically paired with local items like samh plant and sheep's milk butter.

Al-Jouf's date varieties include Sagai, Medjool, and Sukkari. These dates have also become popular in desserts such as date cakes, Qashd, and Al-Bakila. The region's agricultural lands contribute significantly to the local market with their diverse date offerings.

The preservation process of Hilwah Al-Jouf begins once the palm trees bear fruit. This involves meticulous cleaning and drying before packaging them into various sizes for consumption. The community values this tradition as it enhances the Ramadan experience by adding a special touch to meals.

The annual festival in Dumat Al Jandal celebrates these diverse date varieties, showcasing their importance to the region's culture and economy. This event highlights the significance of dates in local traditions and their role in fostering community bonds through shared harvests.

With inputs from SPA