Tofu bacon-wrapped dates are perfect packages of sweetness, saltiness, crispness, and chewiness. No animals are arteries are harmed and you still get to taste an edible harmony!
Let’s fancify Pigs-In-A-Blanket! Aren’t dates technically “pits in a blanket?” Hyuck, hyuck.
No added fat or sugar! Whoopee! That’s a snack that won’t attack you or the animals. If you aren’t a tofu fan, feel free to use store-bought tofu bacon (Lightlife is a flexible option) in place of the homemade stuff. That also cuts down on marinading time, but it won’t be as “wholesome” anymore. Still impressive, though!
Speaking of impressive… STUFF SOME BRIE-GONZOLA INSIDE THE DATES! My favorite way to serve these is with an optional jalapeno rub. Then, you have- prepare yourself for this- Ahem…
Tofu-bacon-wrapped-brie-gonzola-stuffed-jalapeno-rubbed dates.
But that title is too long and not great for SEO (whatever the heck that is. The Internet and I are in a constant tango of intelligence, always trying to outsmart each other. I’m on a losing streak.)
Tofu Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Makes 8 appetizers, easily multiplied
- 8 small Medjool dates (or Deglet Noor, but they ARE inferior. Fight me. No, don’t. Let’s dance.)
- 1/2 package (7 oz or 200g) firm tofu, pressed*
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar**
- 1 tablespoon vegetable stock or water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 teaspoon each: smoked paprika and onion granules (no need to measure unless the thought of free-handing spices makes you sweat.)
- Pit the dates. Duh.
- Whisk or fork-stir the tofu bacon marinade.
- Thinly slice your tofu into eight strips (give or take.)
- Lay the tofu into the sauce. Tuck them in on both sides so they are both coated in smoky, savory, BBQ-y pajamas. Let them take a nap of at least 3 hours.
- Channel delicate touch. Wrap the dates in the flimsy-yet-flavorful fakin’ bacon. Pin with a toothpick so they don’t unravel. Cook for 10-15 minutes on a grill pan or skillet, turning thrice to crisp all sides.
- Optional Bonus Points: before cooking, stuff the split dates with my vegan brie/gorgonzola spreadable cheese. While cooking, rub fresh jalapeno slices on the wrapped dates!
Nutrition Facts per 1 roll: 100 calories (technically 97, but what’s 3 calories between friends?) | 3g protein | 18g carbs | 2g fat
*Every tofu brand is different. Some “extra firms” are more fragile than the “mediocre” firm stuff. Just don’t use silken tofu. I didn’t have to tell you that though, right? I use the Whole Foods stuff because it’s the cheapest. Shhh…. don’t buy out their stock! Keep tofu cheap. Oh, excuse me- #keeptofucheap.
**Red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white vinegar will work in a pinch. I simply LOVE the balsamic bacon flavor.
Dates are nutritious. Agree to disagree, low-carb die-hards. Yes, I eat on a child’s Wonder Woman plate. After going vegan, I felt so mighty and wonderful and had to make my cutlery and serving dishes reflect that.
For whom will you be serving these gourmet morsels?
Best Dishes,
The Hippie Happy Foodistâ„¢
Leave a Reply