DUBAI: Founded in Saudi Arabia, the Bateel cafe and store is synonymous with luxury dates and known for its innovative approach to using the fruit in its dishes.
According to Bernard Charles, culinary director of gourmet and confectionary, this is deeply rooted in the fruit itself. As Ramadan draws to a close, we take a closer look at a staple that is so closely tied to the holy month and the region in general.
“Bateel grows seven organic date varieties: Khidri, Segai, Wanan, Medjool, Sokari, Kholas and Ajwa,” Charles explained. “These are cultivated on Bateel’s own farms in Al Ghat, Saudi Arabia, where dates have been grown since 1936.”
When it comes to designing new dishes, he said each type of date comes with its own flavor profile: “What makes each variety unique is its distinct flavor profile, texture, and natural sweetness — which is why certain dates are better suited to particular dishes. While size can play a role, the true differentiators are taste, moisture level, and structure. Some varieties are soft and caramel-like, others are firmer with subtle honey or toffee notes.”
Both Charles and Nicholas Cuadrado, senior director of culinary food and beverage strategy and development, seek to use dates in new, unexpected ways.
