Summer Chestnuts
Sweet and savory bacon-wrapped water chestnuts glazed with a spicy mayonnaise mixture, perfect for appetizers and gatherings, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap each water chestnut in a piece of bacon and hold together with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chestnuts in a 9 x 13-inch glass dish.
- Mix 1/2 cup chili sauce, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup brown sugar to prepare the glaze.
- Pour the mixture over the bacon-wrapped chestnuts.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier bacon exterior, pre-cook the bacon for a few minutes before wrapping the water chestnuts. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. You can substitute the chili sauce with a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile, or even use honey mustard for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These summer chestnuts are perfect as an appetizer at gatherings or parties. Serve them alongside Southern Style Collard Greens for a balanced meal, or pair with a refreshing salad for a lighter option. They also pair beautifully with venison dishes, creating a savory and memorable feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bacon-wrapped chestnuts in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Chestnuts contains roughly 210 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% 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 make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts a day ahead. Assemble them and cover with the glaze, then refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What can I use instead of water chestnuts?
If you can't find water chestnuts, you can use parboiled baby potatoes or even firm tofu cubes. Both alternatives will provide a different texture but will still absorb the flavors of the bacon and glaze well.
How do I ensure the bacon cooks evenly?
To ensure even cooking, try to use bacon slices of uniform thickness. Additionally, place the bacon-wrapped chestnuts in a single layer without overcrowding the dish. You can also rotate the dish halfway through baking for consistent heat distribution.
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).