Water Chestnut Rumaki
Sweet and savory water chestnut rumaki features crispy bacon-wrapped chestnuts glazed with a tangy ketchup and sugar sauce, perfect for appetizers or parties and loved for its bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap each drained water chestnut in a strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chestnuts in a 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for one hour.
- Drain excess fat from the pan.
- Combine ketchup, sugar, and soy sauce to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the chestnuts, it need not completely cover them.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for an additional hour.
- Try to keep the toothpick clean for easy serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose thick-cut bacon to ensure it crisps up nicely while wrapping the water chestnuts. If you're looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used as an alternative, though it may not render as much fat. Adjust the sugar in the sauce based on your sweetness preference; you can even replace some with honey for a different flavor profile. This dish can be served as an appetizer or as part of a spread alongside American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these water chestnut rumaki as a delightful appetizer at parties or gatherings. They pair beautifully with Sweet And Sour Barbecue sauce for added flavor. Consider offering alongside Ham & Cheese Mash Potatoes or Jean Nickel'S Baked Beans for a hearty spread that will please guests. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored 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 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps retain their crispy texture. You can also microwave them, but be cautious as they may become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Water Chestnut Rumaki contains roughly 116 calories, with 5g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 614mg per serving (27% 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 these water chestnut rumaki in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts a day ahead. Simply assemble them and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. When you're ready to serve, bake them as instructed. This will save you time during your event.
What can I use as a dipping sauce?
While the sauce in the recipe is delicious, feel free to experiment with different dipping sauces. A mix of soy sauce and wasabi or a tangy mustard can elevate the flavor. Additionally, serve with a side of Hidden Valley Hot Potato Salad for a balanced meal.
How do I prevent the bacon from becoming too greasy?
To reduce greasiness, ensure the bacon is cooked until crisp before wrapping the water chestnuts. Using a rack in the baking pan can also help allow excess fat to drip away during cooking. Drain the fat halfway through baking as suggested to keep the dish lighter.
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).