Stuffing dates is one of the oldest and most treasured customs in the Al-Jouf region of Saudi Arabia. Fresh dates picked in the summer can be kept by this generation-old method allowing them to be enjoyed all winter long.
Many households in Al-Jouf still uphold this age-old custom despite the advent of contemporary farming practices and factory production. Ahmed Al-Arfaj and his family are one of them they meticulously preserve their farm’s annual produce. He believes in teaching the process to his children so that the custom will last for generations to come.
The family mainly works with Hilwah Al-Jouf dates. The process begins with “Al-Laqat” or “Al-Haddad,” terms used for picking and harvesting. After collectio
n the dates are spread under the sun to dry fully which helps remove any remaining moisture.
Once dried the next stage is “Al-Taqmi‘ (sorting). During this step, the pits are removed and any spoiled or unsuitable dates are discarded. The good dates are then packed and tightly sealed in containers.Large clay containers known as “Al-Khawabi” were once utilized for storage, although more contemporary techniques are now employed.
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