Water Chestnuts In Sauce
Sweet and savory bacon-wrapped water chestnuts glazed in a ketchup and brown sugar sauce, perfect for parties or appetizer platters, offering a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon strips in half.
- Wrap each water chestnut with a bacon half and place on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F until bacon becomes slightly browned.
- Mix brown sugar and ketchup in a bowl.
- Drain fat from the pan used for baking.
- Pour the sugar and ketchup mixture over the water chestnuts.
- Bake until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a touch of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar and ketchup mixture. You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option, though it may not crisp up the same way. Ensure the water chestnuts are well-drained to prevent excess moisture during baking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These water chestnuts make a great appetizer or party snack. Serve them alongside Aunt Teddie'S Delicious Salad for a refreshing contrast. They also pair well with grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. Consider offering toothpicks for easy serving, making them perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover water chestnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bacon soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Water Chestnuts In Sauce contains roughly 191 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 use fresh water chestnuts instead of canned?
Yes, fresh water chestnuts can be used instead of canned. You will need to peel and slice them into rounds, then proceed with the recipe as directed. Fresh water chestnuts will provide a crunchier texture, which can enhance the overall dish.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using turkey bacon or a lower-sugar ketchup alternative. You could also reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the water chestnuts in bacon and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to serve, bake them as directed for a quick and easy appetizer.
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).