Paleo Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Let’s address the elephant—or in this case, the bacon—in the room. “Paleo Bacon-Wrapped Dates” and vegan don’t normally hang out together. Since bacon is very much not vegan, we’ll give this classic sweet-and-salty favorite a plant-based makeover. Think smoky, chewy, caramel-sweet goodness—without the piggy guilt trip. Below is your hilariously sassy, totally vegan take on a dish that usually makes vegans run for the kale. Ready? Let’s do this.
Paleo Bacon-Wrapped Dates
This vegan version of Paleo Bacon-Wrapped Dates uses smoky, marinated eggplant "bacon" to hug soft, gooey dates like a culinary cuddle.
Ingredients
For the “Bacon” Wrap:
- 1 medium eggplant
- 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
- 8 Medjool dates pitted
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch
Instructions
- Slice eggplant into thin, bacon-like strips. Not too thick unless you like floppy snacks.
- Mix tamari, maple syrup, paprika, garlic, and oil. Dunk eggplant slices like they owe you money.
- Let marinate for 10 minutes. Use this time to admire your own brilliance.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray.
- Stuff each date with a nut (or not, your call). Wrap each in a strip of marinated eggplant.
- Place seam side down on the tray. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway so both sides get golden and sassy.
- Serve warm. Try not to eat them all before your guests arrive.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving – 2 Dates):
- Calories: 130
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
Key Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving):
- Potassium: 10%
- Vitamin A: 6%
- Iron: 8%
- Magnesium: 7%
- Vitamin B6: 5%
Flavor Notes & Tips:
- Use liquid smoke in the marinade if you’re feeling extra dramatic.
- Add crushed red pepper for a sweet-heat combo.
- Not into eggplant? Try rice paper bacon or smoky coconut flakes.
- Prep ahead and reheat in the oven before serving.
- Perfect with a glass of wine and zero regrets.
Final Thoughts: You just turned a bacon-wrapped cliché into a vegan masterpiece. Go ahead—take a bow. Then take another bite.
