Dates Wrapped in Bacon with Marcona Almonds

• 1/2 pound large Medjool dates, carefully pitted
• 1/2 cup Marcona almonds (substitution: blanched almonds)
• 1/2 pound Valdeon cheese (substitution: Maytag or Stilton)
• 1/2 pound sliced bacon, each slice cut in 1/2 (roughly 4-inch lengths)
• 6 cups canola oil
• Special equipment: 6- inch bamboo skewers

1. Heat canola oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 475 degrees F.
2. Split each date in half and stuff with 1 almond and 1/2 teaspoon of Valdeon cheese, and close carefully.
3. Lay a strip of bacon on a cutting board, place a stuffed date at the bottom of the bacon, and wrap with the bacon, making sure to pull the bacon tightly towards you while rolling.
4. Add 3 dates onto each skewer.
5. Carefully submerge the skewers one by one in the oil and fry until golden, about 1 minute.
6. Remove to a plate lined with paper towels and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

dates, marcona almonds, cheese, bacon, canola oil, bamboo skewers

Taken from www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/dates-wrapped-in-bacon-with-marcona-almonds-recipe.html (may not work)