Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game to a whole new level? Introducing the irresistibly delicious Glazed Bacon Wrapped Okra—a Southern classic that combines the crunch of fresh okra with the savory goodness of crispy bacon, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy glaze! This mouthwatering dish is perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering or simply indulging in a tasty treat at home. With just a handful of ingredients and 35 minutes of your time, you can create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don't miss out on the chance to savor this delectable fusion of flavors—let's dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb okra, fresh
- 8 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Wash the fresh okra thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry completely with paper towels to ensure the bacon will crisp properly.
- Trim the stem ends of the okra pods, removing any tough or discolored parts. Cut larger okra pods in half lengthwise if they are particularly large.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise to create shorter strips that will wrap around the okra more easily.
- Wrap each okra pod individually with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is snug but not too tight. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped okra on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each piece to allow even cooking.
- Brush the wrapped okra generously with the prepared brown sugar glaze, coating each piece evenly.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning the okra halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Check the bacon for crispness and the okra for tenderness. The bacon should be golden brown and crispy, and the okra should be tender but not mushy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Carefully remove toothpicks if used.
- Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle with any remaining glaze. Serve hot as an appetizer or side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Okra: For the best flavor and texture, select firm, bright green okra pods. Avoid any that are discolored or overly large, as they can be tough.
- Crisp the Bacon: To achieve perfectly crispy bacon, ensure that the okra is completely dry before wrapping it. This will help the bacon render its fat and crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Adjust the Glaze: Feel free to tweak the brown sugar and soy sauce mixture to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the okra as it bakes. Depending on your oven, it may cook a bit faster or slower, so check for that golden-brown color and tender texture.
- Serve Immediately: These treats are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the bacon is still crispy. If you're serving them as an appetizer, consider keeping them warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
- Experiment with Dipping Sauces: While the glazed okra is delicious on its own, consider serving it with a dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli for an extra flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
