I have been thinking a lot lately on some of those classic appetizers you see at parties. It is always interesting to see what people bring to a party. Typically you get a mix of items such as a cheese or vegetable platter, chips and dip, or something unusual. So this past weekend we were invited to a get together with some of our friends. We typically only get together about three times a year. There was no real plan for what was on the menu, and that is always interesting, as if you know me, I like to bring something to add to the menu, if possible. So with I decided that it would be a good idea to make an appetizer and keep it neutral. Bring on the update to the classic, little smokies.
As the title of this post states bacon wrapped smokies, I should really revert and tell you my twist on this classic appetizer. Instead of using smokies, I decided to use an all beef frank, with some really great smoked bacon. Not only that, but I kicked up some brown sugar for a nice subtle heat. This appetizer is really simple to make, takes a bit of time in the oven, but yields huge flavors, and who can go wrong with bacon wrapped anything, right?
This serves about twelve people.
Ingredients:
- 8 all beef franks, cut into thirds
- Good quality bacon, smoked
- 3/4 cup of light brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Toothpicks
Ingredients for the dipping Sauce:
- 3/4 cup of dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp of chipotle adobo sauce
- 1 head of roasted garlic, mashed
Make your mustard sauce ahead of time. Combine all of the ingredients, and place in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Take a strip of bacon out and lay this out on your cutting board. Take one of the thirds of the frank, and roll it in the bacon, just a single wrap. Make your cut through the bacon, and insert a toothpick through the bacon and the frank, securing the roll. Repeat this process for all franks.
Mix the cayenne pepper with the brown sugar. Take a couple of your secured bacon wrapped franks and place them in the brown sugar mixture, tossing to coat. Place on a large baking sheet. Repeat this process with all franks. Take any remaining sugar mixture and sprinkle all over the little smokies. The sugar will melt and caramelize, make these super delicious.
Place them in the oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until the bacon is nice and caramelized. To eat, simply plop them in your mouth (making sure to remove the toothpick), or dip them in the delicious roasted garlic dijon mustard.
The sweet, the heat, and the texture of these bacon wrapped smokies, really makes these a hit not only with the adults, but also the kids. Enjoy.
Question for you, what is your favorite appetizer at a party?