Dátiles Rellenos (Stuffed Dates)

Dátiles rellenos

Dátiles rellenos are dates stuffed with creamy Manchego cheese and wrapped with smoky Ibérico bacon, two products that are icons of Spanish cooking. This appetizer is a mainstay of tapas menus but it is also simple to prepare at home. A true taste of Spain, dátiles rellenos are popularly enjoyed with a cold beer or cup of sangria. Recipe Servings: Serves 4

Prep Time

15 minutes
+ 5 minutes resting

Cook Time

10 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

Vegetarian

Vegan

Gluten Free

Dairy Free

Kosher

Halal

Ingredients

12 medjool dates, pitted
4 oz (115 g) manchego cheese
6 strips bacon, preferably ibérico ham

Directions

Divide the Manchego into 12 parts. Stuff each date with a piece of cheese.
Cut each strip of bacon in half and wrap a section around a stuffed date. Secure bacon with a toothpick inserted through the end of the bacon through the center of the date. Repeat the process with all of the dates and bacon.
Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over a medium flame and cook each dátil relleno until the bacon is browned on all sides.
Remove the dates to a towel to drain and cool for about 5 minutes before serving.