Barbecued Water Chestnuts
Sweet and savory barbecued water chestnuts wrapped in bacon offer a delicious appetizer with smoky, sugary flavors, perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon slices into 3 pieces.
- Wrap each bacon piece around a drained water chestnut and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the wrapped water chestnuts in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Mix brown sugar, sugar, and catsup in a bowl to make the sauce.
- Dip each wrapped water chestnut into the sauce, then arrange them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the water chestnuts.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. If you prefer a healthier option, try turkey bacon or omit the sugar for a lower-calorie dish. Be careful not to overbake the water chestnuts; they should remain slightly crisp. Also, if you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used, but ensure it’s crispy for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecued water chestnuts make a delightful appetizer at parties or gatherings and pair perfectly with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes With Ham for a hearty meal. Serve them alongside crisp veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced spread. They also complement dishes like Spinach Ham Quiche, making for a diverse brunch or lunch offering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the water chestnuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them on a plate covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Water Chestnuts contains roughly 202 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 barbecued water chestnuts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts ahead of time. Assemble them and refrigerate until you are ready to bake. This makes them an excellent option for entertaining, as you can simply pop them in the oven just before serving.
What can I substitute for catsup in this recipe?
If you prefer not to use catsup, you can substitute it with a mixture of tomato sauce and a bit of vinegar and sugar to replicate the sweetness and tang. Alternatively, barbecue sauce can add a nice twist to the flavor profile.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
To add a kick, mix in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the sauce. You could also wrap the water chestnuts with spicy bacon or add jalapeño slices with the water chestnuts for an extra layer of heat. Adjust the spiciness to your taste preference!
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).