Wrap dates in bacon to make a sweet-and-salty appetizer.
Dates are as close to candy as nature gets. So, as appetizers, dates can be cloyingly sweet. Thus, the addition of bacon and goat cheese provides a perfect balance. Goat cheese, or chevre, is a tangy, creamy cheese that complements the sweetness of dates and the saltiness of bacon without overpowering them. Throw in some chopped almonds for crunch and this appetizer is equally perfect for a cocktail party or an afternoon barbecue.
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Slit the dates lengthwise along one side using a sharp paring knife. Gently remove the pits and discard.
2. Combine the cheese and chopped almonds. Put 1 tsp. of filling into the cavity of each date.
3. Place bacon in a cold skillet. Pan-fry the bacon over medium heat until it no longer sticks to the skillet and releases easily. Turn the bacon and continue to cook until the edges just begin to brown and the slices are about half done. Remove the bacon from the pan while still limp. Drain on paper towels.
4. Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise. Wrap one slice around each date. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to keep it in place.
5. Mix the soy sauce and brown sugar in a small bowl. Place the wrapped dates on the rack of a broiling pan. Using a pastry brush, lightly swab the wrapped dates with the soy sauce mixture.
6. Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove from oven. Turn the appetizers and brush the soy mixture on the other side. Continue to bake until your bacon wrapped date appetizers are golden brown and crispy, about 10 minutes more.
Tags: about minutes, chopped almonds, each date, wrapped dates