Description
This Festive Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts recipe is a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Crispy bacon complements the tender water chestnuts, while a sweet and tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce adds delicious flavor. Easy to prepare and bake until caramelized, these bite-sized treats will disappear quickly at any party.
Ingredients
Scale
Water Chestnuts and Bacon
- 1 can whole water chestnuts (about 8 oz)
- 1 package center cut bacon (about 12 slices)
Glaze
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Other
- Toothpicks
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top to allow the bacon to crisp evenly.
- Prepare Water Chestnuts: Drain and rinse the whole water chestnuts thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the bacon stick better.
- Wrap with Bacon: Cut each bacon slice into thirds. Wrap each water chestnut with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth.
- Coat Wrapped Chestnuts: Dip each bacon-wrapped water chestnut into the glaze or brush generously, making sure each is well-coated.
- Bake: Arrange the glazed bacon-wrapped water chestnuts on the wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through and basting with extra glaze, until bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. These are perfect warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use center-cut bacon which is leaner and crisps better.
- Keep the toothpicks soaked in water beforehand to prevent burning in the oven.
- You can prepare these a few hours in advance and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes before serving.
- For a smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze.
