Habeh anab (حبه عناب), also known as Iranian jujube cubes, is a popular traditional sweet originating from Iran. It is made from the fruit of the jujube plant (Chinese date or red date).
Although jujube itself originally comes from China and is widespread in other parts of Asia and the world, the form and preparation method of habeh anab are uniquely Iranian.
Habeh anab comes in the form of small cubes or granules, made by drying and then compressing the pulp of the jujube fruit into a solid shape. The cubes are dark red to brown in color, have a firm texture, and a sweet, pleasantly fruity flavor reminiscent of dates.
Habeh anab is commonly consumed on its own as a healthier alternative to candies or sweets. Authentic habeh anab typically contains no added sugars, preservatives, or other additives. Its sweetness comes naturally from the jujube fruit (which contains sugar in the form of fructose and glucose). It can also be used to sweeten tea, herbal drinks, or desserts.
If you’re looking to shed the extra kilos you might gain in Iran but don’t want to give up snacking, habeh anab might be the perfect Iranian food souvenir 😉
Bon appétit!
