Alton'S Specialstilwell, Kansas
Alton's Special is a savory-sweet appetizer featuring water chestnuts wrapped in crispy bacon, glazed with a tangy vinegar-sugar sauce. Its combination of crunchy, smoky, and tangy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at parties and gatherings, perfect for those who enjoy bold, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water chestnuts, bacon, sugar, vinegar, chopped pimentos, pepper, and salt in a saucepan.
- Bring all ingredients to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the mixture to thicken the sauce, stirring well.
- Serve hot or warm as an appetizer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. You can substitute maple syrup for sugar for a hint of sweetness. If you're looking for a healthier option, try turkey bacon or even tempeh as a vegetarian alternative. Make sure to adjust cooking time if using different types of bacon. This dish pairs wonderfully with Cool Days Chili for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these water chestnut bites as a warm appetizer at gatherings or parties. They pair excellently with cocktails or as part of a charcuterie board. For a complete meal, consider serving with sides like Ham And Cheese Chowder or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the bacon.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alton'S Specialstilwell, Kansas contains roughly 113 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1009mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat before serving, and it’ll taste just as delicious. If you make it a day in advance, the flavors will meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I substitute for vinegar?
If you prefer not to use vinegar, you can substitute with lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. Apple cider vinegar is another great option that will also complement the sweetness of the sugar while adding depth to the dish.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?
Definitely! You can replace bacon with tempeh or marinated tofu for a plant-based version. For a smoky flavor, try using liquid smoke or smoked paprika as a seasoning to give a similar taste profile without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).