Image Source from adrianagtrejo

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Dates: A Perfect Appetiser

When it comes to distinctive appetisers that impress at any gathering, bacon wrapped dates stand out as a delightful choice. Combining the sweetness of dates with the savoury crunch of bacon creates an explosion of flavours that has made this dish a favourite in many households. In recent years, the air fryer has gained popularity for its ability to cook meals quickly while achieving that satisfying crispness we all crave. So, why not use this handy gadget to create some mouthwatering air fryer bacon wrapped dates?

Ingredients Required

To whip up these delectable bites, you will need the following ingredients:

• 12 Medjool dates
• 6 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)
• Optional: Soft cheese (such as cream cheese or goat cheese) for stuffing
• Optional: Chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for added texture
• Black pepper or other spices for seasoning (to taste)

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (392°F). This will ensure that your bacon gets nice and crispy.

2. Prepare the Dates: If you’re using pitted Medjool dates, you can skip this step. However, if your dates still have pits, carefully slice them open along one side and remove the pit. If you like, stuff the cavity with a small amount of soft cheese or a chopped nut before proceeding.

3. Wrap with Bacon: Cut each slice of bacon in half and tightly wrap each half around a date. Ensure that the seam of the bacon is secured underneath the date to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.

4. Season: Lightly sprinkle black pepper or your preferred spices over the wrapped dates for a bit of extra flavour.

5. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the bacon wrapped dates in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this may prevent even cooking.

6. Cooking Time: Air fry the dates for about 10-12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. It’s a good idea to turn them halfway through the cooking time for even crispness.

7. Finishing Touches: Once cooked, carefully remove the dates from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This will help the cheese set a bit if you’ve decided to use it.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer bacon wrapped dates make a stunning starter or snack. Arrange them on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or coriander for a pop of colour. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, providing a great contrast in flavours and textures. Think fig jam for a sweet complement or a zesty dipping sauce to offer a bit of a kick.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer not only reduces cooking time but also lessens the amount of oil needed compared to traditional frying methods; hence, you can enjoy these delectable bites with a lighter touch. Additionally, air frying helps render the fat from the bacon without resulting in greasy results, ensuring a crispy delight with every bite.

Conclusion

Air fryer bacon wrapped dates are an undeniably simple yet sophisticated appetiser that will tantalise taste buds at your next gathering. Whether enjoyed at a casual evening with friends or served at a festive celebration, these bites are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and indulge in the sweet and salty goodness of this delightful dish!