bacon covered water chestnuts recipe

The Best bacon covered water chestnuts recipe

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you, as it’s one of my family’s absolute favorites. The combination of crispy bacon and tender water chestnuts is a match made in heaven. I first discovered this dish at a local Chinese restaurant, where it was served as an appetizer.

The chef’s technique of breading and frying the water chestnuts before adding the bacon was pure genius. Since then, I’ve made this recipe countless times for family gatherings and special occasions, and it always gets rave reviews. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, such as thick-cut bacon and fresh water chestnuts. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones. One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility – you can serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course for a light meal.

My kids adore helping me prepare the ingredients, from breading the water chestnuts to cooking the bacon. It’s a fun and interactive process that they look forward to every time we make this recipe together. In addition to being tasty and fun to make, this recipe also has several health benefits.

Water chestnuts are low in calories and rich in fiber, making them an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight or improve their digestive health. Bacon may seem like an indulgent ingredient, but when cooked in moderation, it can add a satisfying smokiness to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.

Bacon Covered Water Chestnuts

4.9 from 1381 votes

Crispy bacon wrapped around water chestnuts and baked until golden. A classic appetizer with a sweet and savory glaze.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Appetizer

1 can (8 oz) whole water chestnuts, drained
1 lb thin-cut bacon slices, cut into thirds crosswise
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Toothpicks

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3Wrap each water chestnut with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
4Place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
6Brush half of the glaze over the wrapped water chestnuts.
7Bake for 12 minutes, then brush with remaining glaze.
8Continue baking for another 10 to 13 minutes until bacon is crisp and caramelized.
9Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
10Serve warm as an appetizer.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Small mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Toothpicks

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. You can also use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.

Watch Video Of How Bacon Covered Water Chestnuts Works

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – you can keep it refrigerated for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

To reheat, simply cook the dish in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

When serving, consider garnishing with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Covered Water Chestnuts

Q: What type of bacon should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using thick-cut bacon that’s been smoked or cured with brown sugar. This will give the dish a deeper flavor profile and a more satisfying texture.

Q: Can I substitute water chestnuts with another type of vegetable?

While you can use other types of vegetables in place of water chestnuts, keep in mind that they’ll change the flavor and texture of the dish significantly.

Q: How do I ensure that my water chestnuts are evenly coated with breadcrumbs?

To get perfectly coated breadcrumbs on your water chestnuts, simply dip them in beaten eggs before dredging them in breadcrumbs.

Q: What if I don’t have any breadcrumbs on hand?

No worries – you can easily make your own breadcrumbs by pulsing stale bread in a food processor until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance – simply store them separately in airtight containers until ready to assemble and cook.

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