Most people enjoy the sweet, soft flesh of dates and immediately throw away the seeds. But date seeds are often overlooked, even though they contain fiber, plant compounds, minerals, and natural antioxidants that have attracted growing interest.
One of the easiest ways to make use of date seeds is to roast them and prepare a caffeine-free drink with a rich, nutty flavor. It can be enjoyed as a warm beverage on its own or combined with cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger for extra flavor.
To prepare roasted date seed drink, begin by collecting the seeds from several dates. Wash them thoroughly to remove any remaining fruit and allow them to dry completely. Once dry, spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking tray.
Roast them in a preheated oven at about 180°C (350°F) for approximately 20–30 minutes, stirring once or twice. They should become darker and develop a pleasant roasted aroma, but they should not be completely burned.
Allow the roasted seeds to cool before grinding them. Because date seeds are extremely hard, use a strong spice grinder or coffee grinder and work in small batches. The resulting powder can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
To make the drink, add about 1 teaspoon of roasted date seed powder to a cup of hot water. Simmer gently for 5–10 minutes, then strain into a cup. For a richer flavor, add a small pinch of cinnamon or cardamom. If you prefer sweetness, a small amount of date syrup or honey can be added.
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