Smoked Feta & Harissa Stuffed Dates
Succulent Medjool dates are pitted and generously filled with a vibrant mixture of crumbled smoked feta cheese and spicy, savory harissa paste. These flavor bombs offer a delightful contrast of sweet, smoky, salty, and spicy notes, making them an addictive Mediterranean snack.
Prep Time
45 min
Difficulty
Hard
Servings
12
Calories
180 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the smoked feta: Place the feta cheese in a shallow dish and set up your smoking gun with wood chips. Smoke the feta for 10-15 minutes, ensuring it is evenly coated with smoke.
~15 min - 2
While the feta is smoking, prepare the dates: Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Remove the pit.
~5 min - 3
Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, crumble the smoked feta cheese. Add the harissa paste, finely chopped mint leaves, lemon zest, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
~5 min - 4
Gently mix all filling ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
~2 min - 5
Stuff the dates: Using a small spoon or your fingers, carefully fill each pitted date with the smoked feta and harissa mixture. Press gently to ensure the filling is secure.
~8 min - 6
Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter. For an extra layer of flavor, you can briefly smoke the stuffed dates again for 2-3 minutes.
~3 min
Tips
- The quality of your harissa paste will significantly impact the flavor; use a good quality, authentic paste.
- These can be made a few hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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