5 variations of the "Devils on Horseback" appetizer

A new take on a classic

Traditionally, this pork appetizer is made with pitted dates or prunes, larded with a sharp cheese (such as blue cheese), a slice of liver, and/or orange. The whole thing is then wrapped in bacon and baked until golden brown.

But every traditional recipe has its own twist. This puzzle-like appetizer offers the opportunity for unusual combinations.

Choose a combination to suit your taste

This appetizer can be made with a variety of dried fruits, cheeses, savory ingredients, and pork, and for a more vibrant flavor, we also add vinegar or syrup. Don't be afraid to try unusual combinations; for example, instead of nuts, add pickles to the ham and mustard. To get started, follow this diagram (ingredients listed from left to right):


Dried fruits: figs, dates, prunes, dried apricots, pears

Cheese: farmer's cheese, ricotta, Gruyere, goat's, blue cheese

Crispy ingredients: pistachios, cinnamon, gherkins, Marcona almonds, hazelnuts

Pork: prosciutto, bacon, boiled pork, serrano jamon, bacon

The finishing touch: lemon, maple syrup, mustard, sherry vinegar, balsamic vinegar

Assembling the dish

There are countless filling variations, but the preparation process is always the same. First, stuff the fruit with cheese. Then, place a nut (or something else, like a gherkin) inside, drizzle with the finishing ingredient, and wrap it in a slice of pork.

Traditionally, the appetizer is baked in the oven, but we offer options that are no less delicious raw (except for the bacon, which needs to be cooked).

1: For late breakfast

Maple syrup and bacon are a classic sweet-salty duo. Pair them with dates, ricotta, and cinnamon.

2: With a French twist

Gruyere cheese, gherkin, grainy mustard and ham—this European-style combination complements prunes well.

3: Sweet and Sunny Appetizer

Dried apricots, goat cheese, Marcona almonds, sherry vinegar and Serrano ham look very vibrant together.

4: Hot and spicy

Dried pear is the perfect base for boldly flavored ingredients like blue cheese, hazelnuts, balsamic vinegar, and prosciutto.

5: Amazing elegance

A refined combination of figs, goat cheese, pistachios and bacon, refreshed with lemon juice.