Water Chestnuts And Bacon
Crispy bacon-wrapped water chestnuts glazed with a tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce, perfect as an appetizer for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap each water chestnut with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Arrange the wrapped water chestnuts on a baking sheet.
- Heat ketchup, sugar, soy sauce, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to create the sauce.
- Pour or spoon the sauce over the water chestnuts.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F, turning or spooning sauce over halfway through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier bacon, consider using thick-cut bacon. You can substitute the water chestnuts with canned pineapple chunks for a sweeter twist. Adjust the sauce according to your taste; for a spicier version, increase the hot sauce. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. This dish pairs well with other American recipes like Easy Cheesy Kielbasa With Beans.
Serving Suggestions
These water chestnuts and bacon appetizers are perfect for parties or game day. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or with dips like ranch or blue cheese. They also pair wonderfully with dishes like Boston Linked Beans for a hearty meal. Garnish with chopped green onions for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the bacon. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bacon soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Water Chestnuts And Bacon contains roughly 102 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1165mg per serving (51% 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 these water chestnuts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the wrapped water chestnuts ahead of time. Assemble them, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for an easy appetizer when entertaining. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh or coconut bacon. Both options provide a nice smoky flavor that complements the water chestnuts. Alternatively, turkey bacon can be used for a leaner version, though the texture may differ slightly.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
To adjust the sweetness, start by reducing the amount of sugar in the sauce. You can also use unsweetened ketchup or add more soy sauce to balance the flavors. Tasting as you go will help you achieve your desired level of sweetness without sacrificing the overall taste.
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).