I think it’s high time that devils on horseback, a favourite canapé from the Abigail’s Party era, was resurrected. Bacon-wrapped stuffed prunes are delicious, easy to prepare and great if you’re entertaining. Serve with cocktails and a dash of irony.

Ingredients

Makes 24 (Serve 4-6 per person)

24 pitted Agen prunes
Cooking brandy, for marinating
Mango chutney, ½ to 1 tsp per prune
24 thin slices of smoked streaky bacon
Lemon juice or sherry vinegar

Place the prunes in a deep, narrow container, cover with brandy and leave to marinate for 24 hours. To stuff the prunes, open them a little where the stone has been removed and push in some mango chutney with a small teaspoon. Loosely wrap a single layer of bacon around each prune, then pin together with a cocktail stick. Place under the grill until the bacon is crisp.

Before serving, squeeze a small amount of lemon juice or good-quality sherry vinegar over the devils on horseback, as the acidity helps to balance the richness.

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