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Air Fryer Dates with Bacon: A Delectable Treat

In recent years, air fryers have soared in popularity, transforming how we cook a variety of foods while promoting healthier eating habits. One delightful dish that has emerged as a firm favourite among air fryer aficionados is the tantalising combination of dates and bacon. The sweet, sticky nature of the dates perfectly complements the salty, crispy bacon, making this dish an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether served as a starter or a moreish snack, air fryer dates with bacon are sure to impress your family and friends.

The Appeal of Air Frying

Before we delve into the recipe, it’s worth noting why air frying has gained such traction in the culinary world. Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, producing a crispy exterior while requiring significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This means you can enjoy indulgent flavours with a fraction of the fat, making air frying a healthier alternative for cooking up your favourite snacks.

Ingredients

To create mouth-watering air fryer dates with bacon, you will need the following ingredients:

• 12 large Medjool dates (or your preferred variety)
• 6 slices of streaky bacon
• Optional: a sprinkle of black pepper or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for finishing

Preparation

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (around 400°F) for about 5 minutes. This will help achieve that perfect crispy finish on the bacon.

2. Prepare the Dates: If your dates are not pitted, carefully make a small incision lengthwise and remove the pit. This step is crucial as it allows for easy stuffing later.

3. Wrap the Dates: Take a slice of bacon and cut it in half. Wrap a piece around each date, ensuring it covers as much of the surface as possible. The sweetness of the date paired with the savouriness of the bacon creates an extraordinary flavour profile. Secure the bacon in place using a toothpick if necessary.

4. Seasoning (Optional): If you want to add an extra touch of flavour, you can sprinkle some black pepper over the wrapped dates before air frying. Alternatively, reserve a drizzle of balsamic glaze for serving.

Cooking

1. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the wrapped dates in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd them; this will ensure even cooking and crispiness.

2. Air Fry: Set the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and cook for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them as cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model. You want the bacon to be perfectly crispy and the dates warmed through.

3. Serve: Once cooked, remove the dates from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. For a special touch, drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with fresh herbs for added colour and flavour.

Why You’ll Love Them

Air fryer dates with bacon are not only easy to prepare, but they also pack a flavour punch. The contrast between the sweet, rich dates and the salty, crispy bacon creates an explosion of taste in every bite. They make for an excellent appetiser at dinner parties, a fun addition to a picnic, or simply a comforting snack to enjoy at home.

In conclusion, air fryer dates with bacon are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a gourmet treat with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why these little morsels quickly become a household favourite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these delightful bites are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy!