Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are a fun appetizer that’s always a hit! Crispy bacon hugs crunchy water chestnuts, making every bite a tasty surprise.
Honestly, I could munch on these all day. They’re easy to make and perfect for parties or just a snack while binge-watching my favorite show! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Water Chestnuts: These add a great crunch! If you can’t find canned water chestnuts, you could use fresh ones if they’re available. Just peel and slice them into rounds. They’ll give a nice crunch too!
Bacon: Regular bacon brings smoky flavor, but turkey bacon is a lighter alternative if you want a healthier option. Just keep in mind it may not get as crispy.
Brown Sugar: This is key to that sweet glaze. For a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener. The taste will change a bit, but it can still be delicious!
Soy Sauce: This adds umami. If you’re gluten-free, tamari or coconut aminos work as great substitutes without losing flavor.
Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can provide an even bolder taste. Just be cautious about how much you add, as fresh garlic packs more punch!
How Do I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Achieving perfectly crispy bacon wrapped around your water chestnuts is straightforward but requires a few tips. Using a wire rack helps the fat drip away, ensuring every side cooks evenly!
- Start by preheating your oven well; this helps the bacon crisp up faster.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. If they’re too close, the bacon may steam instead of getting crispy.
- Turn the water chestnuts halfway through cooking for even browning.
- If you find the bacon isn’t as crispy as you like after the initial bake, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
These small steps can make a big difference, helping you create that irresistible texture everyone loves!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (about 8 oz) water chestnuts, drained and patted dry
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Toothpicks, for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to bake. Adding in a few minutes for cooling, you’re looking at around 45 minutes total. It’s quick and definitely worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Then place a wire rack on top; this will help the bacon get nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Next, take each slice of bacon and cut it in half, so you have two smaller strips. This will make it easier to wrap around each water chestnut and help it cook evenly!
3. Wrap the Water Chestnuts:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take each water chestnut and wrap it snugly with a half slice of bacon. Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick to hold it together while it cooks.
4. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder until everything is well combined. This mixture will give your bacon-wrapped treats their sweet and savory flavor!
5. Arrange and Brush:
Arrange the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts on the wire rack on your baking sheet. Then, using a brush or a spoon, drizzle or brush the brown sugar mixture evenly over each piece. Make sure they are well coated for that tasty glaze!
6. Bake Them Up:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want the bacon to be crispy and caramelized. Remember to turn them halfway through and baste them again with the glaze for extra flavor!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. This helps the bacon crisp up and makes them easier to eat. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a lovely garnish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These crispy, sweet, and savory bites are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy every mouthful of these tasty Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts!
Can I Use Fresh Water Chestnuts Instead of Canned?
Yes! Fresh water chestnuts can be used if you can find them. Just peel and slice them into similar sizes as the canned ones. They will provide a fantastic crunch and fresh flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or maple syrup. About 1 tablespoon of molasses plus 3 tablespoons of white sugar will give a similar sweet flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in the oven at a low temperature to maintain crispiness!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts and assemble them up to a day ahead. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking for even cooking.