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My Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are the perfect party bite smoky bacon wrapped around crunchy marinated chestnuts all glazed in a sweet tangy sauce. They vanish so fast at gatherings I always make extra.
Why These Are Special
The magic happens when that crispy bacon meets the crunch of water chestnuts. That sweet savory glaze takes them over the top. Best part? They're so simple to make but look totally impressive.
What You'll Need
- Whole Water Chestnuts: Canned and drained well.
- Bacon: Thin cut for easy wrapping.
- Soy Sauce: For marinating the chestnuts.
- Garlic Powder: Adds flavor to the marinade.
- Brown Sugar: Sweetens the glaze.
- Ketchup: Base for the glaze.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth to the glaze.
- Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish for a fresh touch.
Let's Make These
- Marinate Chestnuts
- Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Add drained chestnuts and let them soak for an hour.
- Wrap with Bacon
- Cut bacon strips in half, wrap each chestnut, and secure with a toothpick.
- Bake First
- Place wrapped chestnuts on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Glaze and Finish
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Brush on chestnuts and bake for 10 more minutes until crispy and sticky.
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Best Tips
Always use thin bacon for better crisping. Drain chestnuts well before marinating to avoid excess liquid. Line your baking pan with foil for easier cleanup.
Mix It Up
Try wrapping pineapple chunks or chicken bites instead of chestnuts. Add sriracha to the glaze for heat lovers, or dust with cayenne before baking for extra spice.
Perfect Partners
Serve these with extra BBQ sauce or spicy mayo for dipping. Pair them with wings or sliders for a complete party spread. They're always a hit with guests.
Keep Them Fresh
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for convenience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead?
Wrap chestnuts in bacon and store uncooked in fridge up to 24 hours. Add sauce and bake just before serving.
- → Why aren't my bacon pieces crispy?
Use regular cut bacon, not thick cut. Make sure to use the rack method for even cooking and crispiness.
- → Can I use sliced water chestnuts?
Whole chestnuts work best. Sliced ones are too thin and won't hold up to wrapping and cooking.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in oven until warm and crispy.
- → Can I make these in advance?
Marinate chestnuts up to 2 hours ahead. For best results, wrap and bake just before serving.