Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering fusion of flavors in our Bacon Wrapped Halloumi Bison Bites! This irresistible appetizer combines the rich, savory taste of bison meat with the creamy goodness of halloumi cheese, all wrapped in crispy bacon for the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, these bites are sure to impress your guests and leave them begging for more. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll discover how easy it is to create a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen. Dive into this recipe, and let’s make your next gathering unforgettable!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g bison meat
- 200g halloumi cheese
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the bacon gets crispy while the bison and halloumi cook.
- In a mixing bowl, season the bison meat with salt and pepper. You can also add any additional spices or herbs you prefer, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika, for extra flavor.
- Divide the seasoned bison meat into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. This will make it easier to wrap with the halloumi and bacon.
- Cut the halloumi cheese into cubes, roughly the same size as the bison meat portions. You should have about 8 cubes of halloumi, one for each bison bite.
- Take one portion of the bison meat and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a cube of halloumi in the center and wrap the bison meat around it, forming a tight ball. Repeat this process for all the bison and halloumi.
- Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each bison-halloumi ball. Ensure that the bacon overlaps slightly to secure it in place. If necessary, you can use a toothpick to hold the bacon in place.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bacon-wrapped bison bites to the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the seared bison bites to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bison is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature of the bison should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bison bites rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
- Serve the bacon-wrapped halloumi bison bites warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. They make a great appetizer or party snack!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality bison meat and fresh halloumi cheese. The quality of your ingredients will significantly enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Seasoning the bison meat well is crucial for bringing out its rich flavor. Feel free to experiment with other spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
- Perfectly Wrap Your Bites: Make sure the bacon overlaps slightly when wrapping around the bison-halloumi balls. This helps to keep everything secure and ensures the bacon crisps up nicely during cooking.
- Sear for Extra Flavor: Searing the bacon-wrapped bites in a skillet before baking not only adds a delicious golden crust but also enhances the overall flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your bison is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This guarantees a juicy and safe-to-eat bite.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the bites rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist bite.
- Garnish for Presentation: Consider garnishing your Bacon Wrapped Halloumi Bison Bites with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 306kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: mg
