Medjool or Deglet Nour, How They Compare

Medjool and Deglet Nour are two of the best-known dates, and they are quite different. Knowing how they compare makes it easy to choose the right one for the job.

Texture and look

Medjool is large, plump and soft, with a moist, almost fudgy bite. Deglet Nour is smaller, firmer and drier, with a semi-translucent, amber flesh, which is why it is often called the “date of light”.

Flavour and sweetness

Medjool is richly sweet with deep caramel and toffee notes. Deglet Nour is more delicate and less sugary, with a subtle, nutty character.

Best uses

• Snacking and gifting: Medjool, for its size and softness.
• Stuffing and coating: Medjool, which holds a filling well.
• Chopping into baking or salads: Deglet Nour, which stays firmer and separates easily.

Which do we offer?

At Al Freihat we focus on Medjool, Ajwa and Balah Barhi. If you want a large, soft, sweet date, Medjool is the closest of the three to what people look for in a premium eating date. For a full in-house comparison, see Medjool vs Ajwa vs Barhi.