Dried jujube fruit, commonly referred to as Chinese dates or red dates (hóng zǎo – 红枣), is an essential component in numerous Chinese dishes. These fruits are celebrated not only for their culinary adaptability but also for their health benefits.
What are Jujubes?
Jujubes (pronounced “joo-joo-bes”), also known as Chinese red dates, are small red fruits that grow on deciduous shrubs or small trees native to southern Asia.
When fresh, they have a crisp texture similar to that of an apple, accompanied by a mild, sweet flavor (be cautious of the pit in the center!). However, they are most commonly utilized in their dried form in Chinese cuisine, where they develop a chewy texture and a rich, caramel-like sweetness akin to dates.
During their season, which spans late summer to early fall, fresh jujube fruit can sometimes be found in well-stocked Chinese markets. The fresh fruit varies in color from green to a blend of green and reddish-brown.
As they ripen on the tree, the jujubes turn red. Once dried, their skin becomes deep red, shiny, and wrinkled.
At this stage, they can be stored for an extended period in a sealed container in a cool, dry place—lasting up to a year, or even longer if kept in a vacuum-sealed bag in the refrigerator.
It’s important not to confuse these with Mediterranean dates, which are more familiar to Westerners. Although they may look similar when dried, Chinese red dates and Mediterranean dates belong to entirely different plant families. Chinese dates are less meaty and not as sweet.
Dried Chinese red dates possess:
- A lightly sweet, fruity flavor with hints of caramel and apple
- A chewy, somewhat dense texture (which becomes softer when rehydrated)
- A mild, pleasant aroma
Health Benefits
For thousands of years, Chinese red dates have been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine. They are considered warming in nature and are believed to:
- Replenish blood and enhance circulation, making them particularly beneficial for women after menstruation or childbirth
- Boost energy levels and combat fatigue
- Support digestive health
- Calm the mind and improve sleep quality
Incorporate them into daily teas and soups for energy support without caffeine, especially during the colder months for their warming effects. They are also a great source of iron and are rich in antioxidants. Jujubes are often referred to as a “natural vitamin C pill,” containing five times the Vitamin C of strawberries and twenty times that of citrus fruits!
There’s an old Chinese saying: “一天三颗枣，青春永不老,” which translates to: eat three dates a day, and you will remain youthful forever!
(Always consult your healthcare provider before using any food for specific or long-term therapeutic purposes, particularly if you are on medication or have chronic health conditions.)
How to Use Chinese Dates
Now, let’s explore how to incorporate them into your cooking. For a fruit, Chinese red dates are remarkably versatile in Chinese cuisine and can be prepared in various ways.
To prepare the dates, slice them in half or open them up to remove the pit in the center.
Even if you intend to use them whole, it’s advisable to slice each one open to allow the flavor and nutrients to be released.
Here are some delicious ways to use them:
- Sweet Soups: A traditional use for red dates is in sweet soups like Red Bean Soup or Snow Fungus Soup. They pair wonderfully with ingredients such as lotus seeds, dried longan, and goji berries.
- Porridge: Add whole or chopped red dates to both savory and sweet congee for natural sweetness and added nutrition.
- Glutinous Rice Desserts: Incorporate them into Chinese New Year sticky rice cakes or Eight Treasures Rice (八宝饭), often used as decorative elements on top.
- Red Date Tea: Simmer whole dates with ginger slices and/or goji berries for a warming, caffeine-free tea.
- Soups: The dates add a subtle sweetness to soups with fish, chicken, or pork.
- Other Desserts: Add chopped dates to traditional steamed cakes for natural sweetness. They can also be cooked down and mashed to create a filling for baked goods.
- As a Natural Sweetener: Use them as a natural sweetener in everyday cooking by adding them to any dish that requires a touch of sweetness. Finely chopping them will help distribute their flavor evenly!
Where to Buy
Chinese red dates can be found in most Chinese or Asian grocery stores, typically located in the dried goods section. They are also becoming more available in health food stores and online. When purchasing, look for plump dates with a vibrant red-brown color, avoiding any that show signs of mold. You may find them either pitted or unpitted.
How to Store
Store dried Chinese red dates in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year. For extended storage, consider keeping them in the refrigerator or freezer.
Recipes Using Dried Jujubes
Dried jujubes feature prominently in many of our recipes. Explore our collection to discover how to incorporate these nutritious fruits into your meals!
