In the heart of Southern Libya, where palm groves abound, the craft of date syrup making is passed down through generations, this golden syrup being an integral part of the local cuisine. Hajja Medina Iqrish, from the Al-Bayt Al-Aseel Association in Sabha, reveals the secrets of this traditional industry, which begins with cleaning the date bunches and boiling them for long hours until their sweet extract concentrates.
Iqrish points out that this industry is not just a food preparation process but a heritage of rituals. Grandmothers used to be careful to prepare the syrup at specific times and on rooftops, fearing that the rising scent of dates during boiling would spoil the process. She emphasizes that selecting specific types of dates is the secret to obtaining a perfectly textured and flavored syrup.
The use of date syrup is not limited to popular dishes like “aseeda” but extends to traditional medicinal recipes, where it is believed to carry numerous health benefits. Despite the developments in the culinary world, the date syrup industry still maintains its position as an authentic part of Southern heritage, reflecting the residents’ adherence to their ancient traditions in the face of modern changes.
