What’s the best sauce alternative?

You can substitute the ketchup-based sauce with barbecue sauce or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.

Can I cook these in a slow cooker?

I would not recommend but yes, Place the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts in a slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Cook on low for 2-3 hours for a different, softer texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these bacon-wrapped water chestnuts are a great make-ahead option! You can assemble them a day in advance, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. On the day you want to serve, coat them with the sauce and bake them fresh. This makes them perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Pre-Cooked Bacon (Rumaki)

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Pre-Cooked Bacon is truly the ultimate delicious appetizer recipe. Their crunchy texture, mild flavor, and sweet brown sugar glaze make them a family favorite.

Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 10 servings 1x

Ingredients

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2 cans of whole water chestnuts, drained
1 pound of pre-cooked Bacon, cut into half strips
1 & 1/2 cups Ketchup
1 cup Brown Sugar
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
Wooden Toothpicks to secure

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Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: The first thing to do is set your oven to 375 degrees F. A preheated oven ensures even cooking and gives the bacon its signature crunch. Line a baking sheet or baking tray with aluminum foil on the bottom for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the sheet for maximum crispiness.
Prepare the Bacon and Water Chestnuts: Warm up the pre-cooked bacon for about 10 seconds in the microwave. This makes it pliable for wrapping. Drain the whole water chestnuts to remove excess liquid. Each chestnut should be dry for the savory bacon to stick properly. Use kitchen scissors to cut the bacon in half.
Wrap and Secure: Take a half strip of bacon and wrap it around a water chestnut. Secure it with a wooden toothpick and place the wrapped chestnut in a single layer on the wire rack. Having the water chestnut in a single layer so you can quickly grab them for dipping.
Make the Savory Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together, Ketchup, Sweet brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Soy sauce.
Coat and Bake: Dip each bacon-wrapped water chestnut into the sauce, ensuring it’s fully coated. Arrange them back on the wire rack. Place the rack in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the crisp bacon is perfectly golden.

Author: Susan Buonpane
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking