Devils on Horseback

Devils on Horseback Recipe - Classic British Appetizer

Region / culture: United Kingdom | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Devils on Horseback is a classic appetizer that combines the sweet and savory flavors of prunes, bacon, and mango chutney. This dish is perfect for serving at parties or as a delicious snack.

History

Devils on Horseback is believed to have originated in England in the 19th century. The name of the dish is said to have been inspired by the contrast between the sweet prunes and the salty bacon, which was thought to resemble the devil riding on the back of a horse.

Ingredients

24 prunes, soaked in boiling water for at least 30 minutes
4 tbsp mango chutney
12 rinded streaky bacon rashers
12 small slices of toast
enough butter to butter the toast
1 bunch of watercress

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F / Gas 6.2.
Remove the pits from the prunes.
Fill each prune with a teaspoon of mango chutney.
Stretch the bacon slices to prevent shrinking during cooking. Use the back of a knife to do this.
Cut each bacon rasher in half.
Wrap a piece of bacon around each prune.
Place the wrapped prunes on a baking sheet, making sure they are tightly packed to prevent unraveling.
Bake the prunes in the oven for approximately 8 minutes.
Spread butter on the toast.
Arrange 2 devils on each piece of toast and garnish with watercress.

Variations

Substitute the mango chutney with apricot jam for a different flavor profile.
Use pancetta instead of bacon for a slightly different taste.
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top for extra crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the prunes in water before filling them with mango chutney to prevent them from drying out during baking.

- Stretching the bacon slices before wrapping them around the prunes will help prevent them from shrinking too much during cooking.

- Arrange the devils tightly on the baking sheet to ensure they stay wrapped while baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Devils on Horseback as a tasty appetizer at your next dinner party or as a delicious snack for a special occasion.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use dried apricots or figs instead of prunes.

- Substitute the mango chutney with any other fruit chutney of your choice.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Devils on Horseback ahead of time and bake them just before serving to ensure they are hot and crispy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Devils on Horseback on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Devils on Horseback with a glass of sparkling wine or a crisp cider for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Devils on Horseback in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C / 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Devils on Horseback contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Devils on Horseback contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Devils on Horseback contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Devils on Horseback contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Devils on Horseback are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the toast and may contain sulfites from the prunes.

Summary

Devils on Horseback are a delicious appetizer that is relatively high in fats and carbohydrates but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Devils on Horseback are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the sweet and savory flavors of prunes, bacon, and mango chutney. Serve them at your next gathering for a tasty and impressive dish that is sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was a sunny Sunday afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for tea. As we chatted and sipped our tea, she brought out a plate of these delicious appetizers she called "Devils on Horseback."

I had never heard of this dish before, and I was intrigued by the name. Margaret explained that they were dates stuffed with blue cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon. I couldn't believe how delicious they were! The sweet dates paired perfectly with the tangy cheese and smoky bacon. I immediately asked Margaret for the recipe, and she was more than happy to share it with me.

As I made these Devils on Horseback for the first time in my own kitchen, I couldn't help but think about all the different recipes I had learned over the years. Some came from cookbooks, others from family members, and some, like this one, from dear friends. It always amazed me how food had the power to bring people together and create lasting memories.

I continued to make these Devils on Horseback for special occasions and gatherings with friends and family. They were always a hit, and everyone would ask for the recipe. I loved being able to share this delicious dish with others and pass on the tradition of making it.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. Each time I make them, I am transported back to that sunny Sunday afternoon with Margaret, enjoying tea and discovering a new favorite dish.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the recipes I have collected and shared over the years, I am grateful for the joy that cooking has brought into my life. From learning to make my grandmother's famous apple pie to mastering the art of making homemade pasta, each recipe tells a story and holds a special place in my heart.

So, the next time you are gathered with loved ones, sharing a meal and creating memories, remember the power of a good recipe. It has the ability to bring people together, evoke cherished memories, and nourish both body and soul. And who knows, maybe you'll discover a new favorite dish, like I did with these delightful Devils on Horseback. Happy cooking!