Ranginak Persian Date Dessert

Ranginak is a traditional dessert from southern Iran — particularly popular in provinces like Bushehr, Fars, Hormozgan, Kerman, and Khuzestan. This rich treat gets its natural sweetness from dates and is packed with comforting flavors like cinnamon and toasted flour. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon snack or a warm, easy dessert after dinner, Ranginak is the perfect choice.

And the best part? Ranginak is an easy Persian dessert that anyone can make at home — no special equipment, no oven required. Just a few simple ingredients and you’re good to go.

Fun fact: In 2017, the city of Ab Pakhsh in Bushehr province made a Ranginak that measured 109 meters long, setting a Guinness World Record! That’s a whole lot of sweet, delicious dates.

How To Make Persian Ranginak?

Ranginak is a delicious and wholesome treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients like dates, flour, walnut kernels, cinnamon, and pistachios, this dessert brings a sweet and comforting taste that’s hard to resist. It’s often served during afternoon tea or at gatherings, and it’s the perfect snack to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or any hot beverage.

Not only does Ranginak satisfy your sweet tooth, but it also packs a punch of energy and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a sweet pick-me-up in the afternoon or a treat to share with friends and family, Ranginak is sure to impress.

Preparing the Ingredients

To make Ranginak, start by removing the pits from the dates, then stuff the dates with walnut halves. Afterward, close the dates back up. Arrange the dates vertically in a dish. Take the butter out of the refrigerator to soften.

Toasting the Flour

Place a medium-sized pan on low heat, add the flour, and gently toast it until it turns golden brown. Once the flour is golden, sift it to ensure it is smooth and uniform.

Making the Butter and Flour Mixture

Add the sifted flour into a pan, then add the softened butter. Stir the mixture until the butter completely melts and combines with the flour.

Adding Cinnamon

Add the cinnamon to the mixture and stir to release the cinnamon’s aroma. Continue to toast it briefly to ensure the flavor is well incorporated.

Spreading the Butter-Flour Mixture on the Dates

Evenly spread the butter and flour mixture over the dates. Sprinkle a little rose petal powder over the Ranginak for an added fragrance.

Cooling and Packing

Place the dish containing the Ranginak in the refrigerator for about 2 hours to allow it to set. After the Ranginak has firmed up, you can cut it into pieces.

This delightful and nutritious dessert is perfect for parties and gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea for a truly memorable experience!

Difference Between Rutab And Date

Rutab (fresh dates) and dates are both from the date palm tree, but they differ in ripeness and texture. 

– Rutab: These are semi-ripe, fresh dates, soft, juicy, and sweet. They are typically consumed before fully drying and are available in late summer to early fall.

– Dates: Fully ripe and dried dates, which can be soft or dry depending on the variety. They are sweeter, firmer, and have a longer shelf life than rutab.

In short, rutab is fresh, moist, and softer, while dates are fully ripe and can be dry or soft.

Note :

Rutab is traditionally used to make Ranginak, but since it’s not accessible to everyone, dates are also used as an alternative to prepare this delicious dessert.

Key Tips For Making Delicious Ranginak

• If you don’t have rutab, you can use regular dates instead.
• The mixture of flour, oil, and cinnamon should be poured warm over the dates.
• Choosing fresh, high-quality dates is very important. Fresh and moist dates will make your Ranginak taste better and enhance its final quality.
• When preparing the butter and flour mixture, the heat and toasting time are crucial for properly cooking the ingredients and achieving the desired flavor.
• Cooling before cutting: Before cutting the Ranginak, let it cool in the refrigerator for enough time so it becomes firm and easier to slice.
• To store Ranginak, cover it with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator.

Health Benefits of Ranginak

Ranginak, due to its nutritious ingredients such as iron, folic acid, and the antioxidants found in dates and walnuts, is beneficial for boosting the immune system and improving overall health.