Irresistible Dorothy Lynch BBQ Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts: The Ultimate Game Day & Party Appetizer
Are you on the hunt for that perfect appetizer that disappears as quickly as you serve it? Whether you’re planning an epic tailgate party, a festive holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in with friends, Dorothy’s BBQ Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are an absolute game-changer. These delightful bites offer an irresistible combination of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a wonderfully crunchy and smoky package. Trust us, once you taste one, you’ll understand why it’s impossible to stop at just one!
There’s a special kind of excitement in the air when autumn rolls around, isn’t there? For many, it’s the official start of football season and, with it, the glorious tradition of tailgating. While summer has its charms, the anticipation of a good old-fashioned Lincoln, Nebraska Husker Tailgate is unparalleled! We’re thrilled to kick off this season with a fantastic new recipe featuring Dorothy Lynch Dressing, guaranteed to be a winning addition to your next game day spread or any celebratory occasion.
What makes these bacon appetizers so phenomenal is their versatility. You can prepare them with ease in your oven, on a grill, or even in a smoker, making them the ultimate watch party snack or parking lot feast. The simple preparation and cooking methods mean less stress for the host. And when the party’s over? Cleanup is a breeze! Just toss the foil and the toothpicks, and your dishes are practically done, leaving you more time to enjoy the company and the game.
Imagine this: crisp, refreshing water chestnuts, expertly wrapped in savory, smoky bacon, then generously coated in a homemade, tangy barbecue sauce. But not just any barbecue sauce – this one features the unique, beloved flavor of Nebraska’s very own Dorothy Lynch Dressing. The resulting creation is an explosion of textures and tastes, making it an ideal snack or appetizer for any event. Furthermore, Dorothy’s Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts can be prepared in advance, a fantastic feature that elevates them to one of our all-time favorite hors d’oeuvres, perfect for stress-free entertaining.
This recipe is proudly sponsored by Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment. All opinions, enthusiasm, and deep appreciation for their Nebraska-Made Home Style Dressing & Condiment are entirely my own. We genuinely love what Dorothy Lynch brings to our culinary creations!
Effortlessly Delicious: Easy Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Despite their gourmet appeal, these bacon wrapped water chestnuts are surprisingly simple to prepare, making them a go-to classic appetizer for any skill level. The process is straightforward: first, you’ll whisk together the homemade barbecue sauce ingredients and let them gently simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Next, you’ll wrap each crisp water chestnut with a slice of bacon and secure it, preparing them for the oven. Once the bacon reaches that perfect crispy stage, you’ll generously baste these savory bundles with your luscious homemade BBQ sauce. A final quick bake ensures they’re piping hot, perfectly caramelized, and ready to impress your guests.
If you’re as enamored with the delightful combination of bacon and irresistible appetizers as we are, then you’re in for a treat with these other fan favorites. Be sure to explore these equally delicious bacon-centric recipes: the rich and creamy Sauerkraut Bacon and Swiss Cheese Ball, the elegant and flavorful Bacon and Cheese Phyllo Wrapped Pickled Asparagus, and these delightfully spicy Bacon Wrapped Hot Brussels Sprouts. Each offers a unique twist on this beloved ingredient, promising to elevate your appetizer game.
The Secret Ingredient: Dorothy Lynch BBQ Sauce
Can we take a moment to truly appreciate the transformative power of a homemade barbecue sauce in a recipe? While the convenience of a store-bought bottle is undeniable, there’s an undeniable magic and depth of flavor that only a freshly made sauce can deliver. And when it comes to homemade BBQ sauce, ours is not just simple to make, but it also uses ingredients you likely already have stashed in your pantry. The result is a vibrant, flavorful sauce that far surpasses anything you’d find on a supermarket shelf.
The true “game-changer” in this particular BBQ sauce recipe is the inspired inclusion of Dorothy Lynch Dressing. Traditionally, many homemade barbecue sauces rely on ketchup as their base. Here, we substitute Dorothy Lynch, and the impact is profound. Its distinctive tomato base, combined with its signature sweet and subtly spicy profile, introduces an entirely new dimension of flavor. It perfectly complements the smoky bacon and crunchy water chestnuts, creating a sauce that is rich, tangy, and utterly addictive. This isn’t just a sauce; it’s a flavor enhancer that ties the entire appetizer together, making it unforgettable.
Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment: A Culinary Powerhouse
You might be pondering, “Why transform a condiment into another condiment?” The answer lies in the incredible versatility and unique flavor profile of Dorothy Lynch Dressing. It’s much more than just a salad dressing; it’s a secret weapon that elevates countless sauces and seasonings, imbuing them with a homemade taste and a distinct sweet-tangy zest. Its rich, tomato-based sweetness and subtle spice make it an ideal base for a wide array of culinary applications.
Our experience has shown just how adaptable Dorothy Lynch can be. We’ve successfully incorporated it into various recipes, achieving outstanding results. For example, it forms the heart of our delightful homemade taco seasoning and taco sauce, adding a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. It transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary pizza sauce, creates a delectable ham glaze, and is the star in our incredibly popular glazed cranberry meatballs. And, of course, who could forget the infamous Sloppy Dorothy Recipe? This dish became one of our top recipes in less than a month, a testament to its unparalleled deliciousness. These creations are truly that good, proving that Dorothy Lynch is far more than just a dressing.
Key Ingredients for Unforgettable Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
To craft this exceptional appetizer, you’ll need a selection of high-quality ingredients for both the homemade BBQ sauce and the water chestnuts themselves. For a comprehensive list of all ingredients and detailed step-by-step instructions, please scroll to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card.
To Make the Homemade BBQ Sauce:
- Dorothy Lynch Dressing: The star of our sauce! We highly recommend using the Home Style variety to achieve that authentic sweet and tangy flavor. Its unique tomato base is what sets this BBQ sauce apart.
- Brown Sugar: We prefer dark brown sugar for its rich, deep molasses flavor, which adds a wonderful complexity to the sauce. However, light brown sugar or even coconut sugar can be used as alternatives if that’s what you have on hand.
- Honey: Essential for adding a sticky, glossy texture and a delicate, natural sweetness that balances the other bold flavors.
- Soy Sauce: We opt for low sodium soy sauce to better control the overall saltiness of the sauce, but regular soy sauce works just as well. For those requiring a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent substitute.
- Sriracha: A dash of sriracha introduces a subtle warmth and a pleasant kick, elevating the flavor profile. If you prefer a milder sauce, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient is crucial for adding a significant depth of savory, umami flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the BBQ sauce.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides a vital touch of tanginess and acidity, cutting through the sweetness and balancing the sauce perfectly.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers the most vibrant and aromatic garlic flavor. If fresh isn’t available, jarred minced garlic is a convenient alternative.
- Cornstarch and Water: This simple slurry is used to thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect, luscious consistency that clings beautifully to the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts.
For the Water Chestnuts:
- Water Chestnuts: It’s important to select canned, whole water chestnuts for this recipe, rather than the sliced variety, to ensure that satisfying crunch and substantial bite.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon strips, each cut into thirds, are ideal. The thicker cut provides a deeper, smoky flavor and a more substantial, satisfying crispness when cooked, making each bite truly indulgent.
Keep reading for invaluable tips and tricks, potential substitutions to tailor the recipe to your liking, and answers to common questions you might have about preparing these delectable bacon-wrapped water chestnuts. We’re here to ensure your culinary adventure is a resounding success!
Step-by-Step: How to Make This Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnut Appetizer
This crowd-pleasing appetizer comes together remarkably quickly and easily, making it ideal for entertaining without stress. Follow these simple steps to create a truly delicious snack:
First, begin by preparing your outstanding homemade BBQ sauce. Combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients, reserving the cornstarch and water mixture for later, into a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for about 15 minutes, which gives the flavors ample time to develop and meld together beautifully. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour this slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously. Continue to cook for another couple of minutes, or until the sauce visibly thickens to your desired consistency.
While your sauce is simmering, preheat your oven to a robust 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature helps the bacon crisp up nicely. Prepare a large cookie sheet or baking dish by lining it completely with aluminum foil or parchment paper for effortless cleanup. Set this aside.
Next, carefully drain all the liquid from the canned water chestnuts. It’s crucial to thoroughly pat them dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the bacon adhere better and ensures a crisper result during baking.
Now for the fun part! Take one piece of your thick-cut bacon (which you’ve already cut into thirds) and wrap it snugly around each individual water chestnut. Secure each little bundle with a wooden toothpick. This ensures the bacon stays in place as it cooks, rendering out its delicious fat and becoming perfectly crispy.
Arrange your bacon-wrapped water chestnuts in a single layer on the prepared foil-lined baking sheet. Make sure there’s a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking and crisping. Bake them in the preheated oven for an initial 10 minutes. This first bake starts the bacon cooking and helps it render some of its fat.
After the initial baking time, remove the tray from the oven. Using a pastry brush, generously baste each bacon-wrapped water chestnut with your homemade Dorothy Lynch BBQ sauce. Return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispness and the BBQ sauce has beautifully caramelized, forming a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze. The high heat will create a fantastic crust.
Once baked to perfection, remove them from the oven. Pour any remaining BBQ sauce into a small bowl, perfect for dipping, and serve your hot, glistening bacon-wrapped water chestnuts immediately. If by some miracle you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. They reheat wonderfully in the microwave, air fryer, or oven, maintaining much of their deliciousness.
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If you’re already envisioning these delicious bacon-wrapped water chestnuts gracing your next party spread, make sure you save this incredible recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever the craving strikes!
What is Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment? The Nebraska Legend
Dorothy Lynch dressing has a heartwarming origin story, beginning in the 1940s at the intimate Legion Club in St. Paul, Nebraska. It was there that Dorothy herself crafted her homemade dressing, serving it to patrons who quickly fell head over heels for its unique flavor. Demand grew so immense that people would bring their own bottles to the club just to have them refilled with this now-fabled dressing. Today, the legacy continues in a state-of-the-art, 64,000 square-foot plant located in Duncan, Nebraska, a charming town with a population of just 351. Dorothy Lynch is available in two popular varieties: the classic Home Style and a lighter Light & Lean option. What’s more, Dorothy Lynch is a health-conscious choice, proudly containing no MSG, cholesterol, or trans fats, and it’s completely gluten-free, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Dispelling Misconceptions: The Unique Flavor of Dorothy Lynch Dressing
Due to its distinctive reddish-orange hue, many people mistakenly assume Dorothy Lynch Dressing will taste similar to French dressing. However, nothing could be further from the truth! While most French dressings are characterized by an oil base, Dorothy Lynch boasts a rich, luscious tomato base. This fundamental difference gives it a thick, creamy texture and a perfectly balanced sweet and spicy flavor profile that appeals to nearly everyone. It genuinely tastes homemade, offering a nostalgic warmth. And if you’re fortunate enough to hail from Nebraska, like us, a taste of Dorothy Lynch instantly evokes the comforting flavors of home, connecting you to a beloved regional tradition.
Savvy Substitutions to Make This Recipe Your Own
When it comes to cooking, remember that recipes are a guide, not strict rules. Don’t be afraid to experiment and customize this dish to perfectly suit your personal taste preferences and any dietary needs. Making it your own is part of the fun!
- If you can’t find thick-cut bacon at your local grocery store, don’t fret! Any standard slice of bacon will work beautifully. Just keep an eye on it during baking, as thinner bacon may crisp up faster.
- For those who love a bit of heat, sriracha adds a fantastic kick. However, if sriracha isn’t your preferred spice or isn’t available, feel free to substitute with your favorite hot sauce, or whatever fiery condiment you happen to have on hand.
- Fresh garlic truly provides the best flavor, but if you’re out or short on time, garlic powder is a perfectly acceptable alternative. As a general rule, use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
- What is the best way to eat canned water chestnuts? Canned water chestnuts are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a myriad of ways! Their crisp texture makes them an excellent addition to soups, vibrant salads, hearty stews, and flavorful stir-fries. As demonstrated in this recipe, wrapping them with savory bacon is another truly delicious and popular option.
- Do you need to rinse water chestnuts before cooking? Yes, it’s generally a good idea to give canned water chestnuts a thorough rinse before incorporating them into your dish. They are often packed in a slightly briny solution, and rinsing helps to remove any excess salt or canning liquid, ensuring a cleaner flavor.
- How long do you cook water chestnuts for? Since canned water chestnuts are already fully cooked and processed, the cooking time isn’t about cooking them through. Instead, you’re simply heating them up and allowing them to absorb flavors. In this recipe, the cooking time primarily focuses on crisping the bacon and caramelizing the BBQ sauce.
- Do you drain canned water chestnuts? Absolutely! Always drain the liquid from canned water chestnuts before using them in any recipe. Patting them dry, as instructed in this recipe, is also recommended to prevent dilution of flavors and to promote better crisping.
Pro Tips & Clever Tricks for Perfection
- To prevent your wooden toothpicks from charring or burning in the hot oven, a simple trick is to soak them in water for a few minutes before using them to secure the bacon. This adds a layer of moisture that helps them withstand the heat.
- For even and thorough coating, utilize a good quality pastry brush to baste the water chestnuts with the homemade barbecue sauce. This ensures every bite is drenched in that delicious, caramelized glaze.
- Consider making a double batch of the Dorothy Lynch BBQ sauce! It stores beautifully in the fridge and is fantastic to have on hand for glazing grilled chicken, pork ribs, or even as a flavorful condiment for sandwiches and burgers.
More Delicious Dorothy Lynch Inspired Recipes to Love
If you’ve fallen in love with the distinctive taste and versatility of Dorothy Lynch Dressing, then you’ll undoubtedly adore these other entree recipes we’ve meticulously crafted. Dive into the rich flavors of Dorothy’s BBQ Pork Chops, savor the delightful simplicity of Dorothy’s BBQ Little Smokies, and enjoy the comforting goodness of Dorothy’s Bacon and Potato Frittata. For another fantastic appetizer, you absolutely must try Dorothy’s Hot Taco Dip!
Ready to explore more? See ALL of our Dorothy Lynch Recipes and unleash a world of flavor in your kitchen!
Where Can You Find Dorothy Lynch Dressing?
Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment is a cherished staple, readily available at most grocery stores across Nebraska. You can also find it at select grocery retailers west of the Mississippi River, including major chains like Walmart and Hy-Vee. If you’re having trouble locating it in your local store, don’t worry! You can easily keep your pantry stocked with this beloved dressing by shopping directly through Buy Nebraska – making it accessible no matter where you live.
To stay updated with the latest recipes, culinary inspiration, and news, be sure to follow Dorothy Lynch on their official website, and connect with them on their vibrant social media channels: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. You’ll find delicious recipes and exciting updates all year long!
This easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer is truly bound to be a monumental hit with your family and friends. What’s not to love about the delightful crunch of fresh water chestnuts, perfectly complemented by the rich, smoky flavor of crispy bacon, all brought together with the sweet, tangy, and savory notes of that incredible homemade Dorothy Lynch barbecue sauce? It’s a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite, promising to be the star of any gathering. Don’t wait – add these to your menu and watch them disappear!
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Print Recipe
Dorothy’s BBQ Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Equipment
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
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15 x 10 x 1-Inch Cookie/Jelly Roll Pan
Ingredients
For the Barbecue Sauce:
- 1 cup Dorothy Lynch Dressing
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 Tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Sriracha
- 1/2 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 Tablespoons water
For the Water Chestnuts:
- 2 8 ounce cans whole water chestnuts
- 1 12 ounce package of thick cut bacon each piece cut into thirds
Instructions
Prepare your homemade BBQ sauce:
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Add all of the BBQ sauce ingredients (except the cornstarch and water) to a saucepan over medium heat stirring occasionally, cooking for about 15 minutes. Whisk cornstarch and water together and pour into the saucepan. Cook for another couple of minutes until the sauce thickens
Prepare the water chestnuts:
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
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Line a cookie sheet with foil. Set aside.
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Drain the liquid from the water chestnuts and pat them dry with a paper towel.
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Wrap a piece of bacon around each water chestnut and secure it with a toothpick.
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Place the bacon wrapped water chestnuts on the foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
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Baste each one with the barbecue sauce and then bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the BBQ is caramelized on the outside.
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Serve hot with more BBQ sauce for dipping.
Notes
Nutrition
