Emirati Al Madrooba Spread (Print Version)

Creamy sweet date and ghee spread offering a flavorful and nourishing start to your day.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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

# Recipe Steps:

01 - If using whole dates, remove pits and chop dates coarsely.
02 - Place ghee in a medium nonstick skillet over low heat until melted.
03 - Add chopped dates to the skillet. Mash and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture softens and thickens into a smooth paste.
04 - Sprinkle in ground cardamom and sea salt if using. Stir thoroughly until the paste is glossy and well combined.
05 - Remove the pan from heat and allow the paste to cool slightly before serving.
06 - Enjoy warm or at room temperature, accompanied by fresh flatbread or eaten by the spoonful.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It's ready in 15 minutes and tastes like you've been cooking all morning.
  • Pure, whole-food ingredients with no hidden surprises or processing.
  • One of those rare dishes that feels indulgent but actually nourishes your body for hours.
02 -
  • Never rush the heat—high temperature makes dates grainy instead of creamy, and you'll regret it.
  • If you want it silkier, blend the dates in a food processor before cooking; it changes everything about the texture.
03 -
  • Make a big batch and store it in a jar; it keeps for a week and tastes just as good on day four.
  • If your paste breaks or feels too oily, you added ghee too fast or the heat was too high next time.
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