Malay-style Stuffed Dates with Beef Bacon

Ingredients

In this Malay adaptation, we substitute the traditional Spanish pork bacon with beef bacon to cater to the dietary preferences of Malay cuisine. Additionally, we infuse the stuffing mixture with Malay spices and herbs to enhance the flavors and give it a distinct Malay twist. We alse have the original recipe for Pincho dátiles con bacón, so you can check it out.

• 12 large dates, pitted 12 large dates, pitted
• 6 slices of beef bacon 6 slices of beef bacon
• 200g ground beef 200g ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 15g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in the ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are well incorporated.
4. 4.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro.
5. 5.
   Take each pitted date and stuff it with a small amount of the beef mixture.
6. 6.
   Wrap each stuffed date with a slice of beef bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
7. 7.
   Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the beef bacon is crispy and the dates are caramelized.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef bacon — Make sure to choose a high-quality beef bacon that is thinly sliced for better wrapping around the dates.
• Dates — Select plump and moist dates for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a small amount of grated coconut to the beef mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Serve the stuffed dates with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for a tangy kick.
• If you don't have beef bacon, you can use turkey bacon as a substitute.
• Make sure to soak the toothpicks in water before using them to prevent them from burning in the oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Malay-style Stuffed Dates with Beef Bacon as an appetizer at your next gathering. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an attractive presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal, you can sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the stuffed dates before serving. The contrast of the black sesame seeds against the golden-brown beef bacon will add an elegant touch to the dish.