Bacon-Water Chestnuts Hors D'Oeuvres
Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts glazed with a sweet and tangy vinegar sauce, offering a savory, crunchy appetizer perfect for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, water, vinegar, pimentos, salt, and pepper together and boil for 5 minutes to make sauce.
- Mix cornstarch and cold water to make a paste.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the boiling sauce, stirring until thick and clear.
- Wrap half a water chestnut with a third of a slice of bacon.
- Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
- Bake or broil until bacon is done, turning as necessary.
- Dip the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts in the prepared sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider partially cooking the bacon before wrapping it around the water chestnuts. You can substitute the water chestnuts with canned or fresh chestnuts if needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the sugar slightly. This dish can be served as a part of a larger spread, similar to Fisher'S Ham Bits or Pigs Without Blankets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious hors d'oeuvres warm, drizzled with the sauce for added flavor. They pair excellently with cocktails or as part of a festive appetizer platter alongside items like Hope'S Baked Beans. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through and the bacon is crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon-Water Chestnuts Hors D'Oeuvres contains roughly 77 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 make these hors d'oeuvres ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts in advance. Assemble them and store in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?
If you don't have red wine vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Just keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly, but it will still create a delicious sauce for the dish.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a lighter alternative. However, be aware that it may not crisp up as well as regular bacon, so you might need to adjust cooking times accordingly for the best results.
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).