Bacon
Wrapped Dates
Ingredients -- Most definitely not vegetarian
The combination of dates
with oven-broiled bacon produces a complex mix of
flavors. These can be enjoyed as a snack or a part
of a small light meal, just about any time of day.
Of course the dates are low-glycemic.
- Pitted Dates (any variety, choose your
quantity)
- Sweet (hulled) nuts of your choice, such as
whole Pecans, or Walnuts
- Bacon (preferably thin sliced)
- toothpicks
Set oven to a low broil.
Be sure your dates are pitted, then replace the pits with one
half of a whole nut (such as a pecan or walnut) inside each
date for a crunchy center.
Take a standard long slice of raw bacon and cut it in half
crosswise. One date requires about a half-a-piece of
bacon. If it's thin sliced, handle the bacon carefully
so it doesn't rip.
Wrap the raw bacon all around the outside of the date such
that a minimal amount of date is showing. It's
preferable that the date is mostly only wrapped with one
layer of bacon, not more.
Then use one toothpick to spear it all the way through (both
sides of the bacon, piercing the nutty center) to stabilize it
and keep it wrapped.
Arrange all your wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with
parchment paper or tinfoil. Fill the baking sheet with
only one layer of the dates, keep them separated. Place
the sheet of treats under your broiler and cook them for the
usual time to broil bacon in the oven. Cook the bacon as
to your preference in terms of done-ness. For me, this
is roughly 12 minutes, then flip them to the other side, then
about 12 minutes more. Don't let them burn, but the
toothpick will get a little charred.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool. I prefer to
remove the toothpick before serving or storing the
treats. Refrigerate to store. Best served somewhat
warm or at least at room temperature.