Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs with Bourbon-Glazed Onions
Have you ever craved a hot dog but wanted to elevate it beyond the classic ketchup and mustard? What if we told you that you could combine the smoky goodness of bacon and the sweet complexity of bourbon-glazed onions to create a mouthwatering experience with our Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs with Bourbon-Glazed Onions? This recipe presents an exciting twist on a familiar favorite, ideal for winter gatherings and cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- Hot Dogs: 8 quality beef or turkey hot dogs (or vegan alternatives)
- Bacon: 8 strips of bacon (try turkey bacon for a lighter version)
- Onions: 2 medium-sized onions, thinly sliced
- Bourbon: ¼ cup bourbon whiskey
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons packed (consider coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly cracked
- Hot Dog Buns: 8 soft hot dog buns (opt for whole-grain buns for added nutrition)
- Chili Powder: Optional, for an extra kick
- Fresh Chives or Parsley: For garnish
Timing
Preparing these Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs with Bourbon-Glazed Onions takes about 90 minutes—which is 20% less time than the average hot dog recipe that typically requires more prep. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Tip: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon strips on a baking sheet and cook for about 15-20 minutes until crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
While the bacon is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes until they become caramelized and soft.
Tip: You can add a splash of water if they stick to the pan, preventing burning while intensifying their sweetness.
Step 3: Add Bourbon and Sugar
Once the onions are caramelized, carefully add bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the liquid has reduced and the onions are sticky and glossy.
Tip: Taste to adjust the sweetness or acidity according to your preference.
Step 4: Wrap the Hot Dogs
As the onions are finishing up, remove the cooked bacon from the oven. Take each hot dog and wrap it with a strip of bacon, securing it with toothpicks if necessary.
Tip: For a smoky flavor, consider using grilled or smoked hot dogs!
Step 5: Cook the Wrapped Dogs
Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Once your Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs are ready, place them in your hot dog buns, top generously with bourbon-glazed onions, and garnish with fresh chives or parsley.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 25g (of which saturated: 10g)
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make these Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs more nutritious, consider the following modifications:
- Protein Swap: Use turkey or plant-based hot dogs to reduce fat.
- Bun Choice: Opt for whole-grain or gluten-free buns for added fiber.
- Sugar Adjustment: Replace brown sugar with stevia or erythritol for a sugar-free version.
Serving Suggestions
Present your Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp green salad. Whip up a quick coleslaw for added crunch and freshness. Consider pairing them with a robust dark beer or homemade lemonade for the perfect balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Under-cooking the Bacon: Ensure the bacon is fully crispy to avoid a greasy outcome.
- Overcooking the Onions: Monitor the onions to prevent burning; it’s better to undercook slightly as they will continue cooking after adding bourbon.
- Skipping the Bourbon: Believe it or not, the bourbon adds a depth that truly elevates the dish; don’t skip this ingredient!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven to maintain the crispy bacon texture. You can also store the bourbon-glazed onions separately; they make a fantastic topping on other dishes!
Conclusion
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs with Bourbon-Glazed Onions this season. This unique recipe allows you to savor the rich combination of bacon and bourbon, demonstrating how a classic dish can be reinvented. Give it a try and elevate your winter gatherings!
We’d love to hear your feedback! Share your experience trying this recipe and explore our other posts for more delicious inspiration.
FAQs
Can I prepare the bourbon-glazed onions ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the onions up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
What can I use instead of bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, apple cider or even a splash of non-alcoholic beer can add similar flavor notes.
Are there vegetarian hot dogs?
Yes, many brands offer delicious vegetarian hot dogs made from plant proteins that will work perfectly in this recipe.
Explore, experiment, and enjoy! Your Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs with Bourbon-Glazed Onions await your culinary skills.
Winter BBQ Bacon Dogs with Bourbon-Glazed Onions
Ingredients
For the Bacon Dogs
- 8 pieces quality beef or turkey hot dogs Or vegan alternatives
- 8 strips bacon Try turkey bacon for a lighter version
- 8 pieces soft hot dog buns Opt for whole-grain buns for added nutrition
For the Bourbon-Glazed Onions
- 2 medium-sized onions Thinly sliced
- ¼ cup bourbon whiskey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar Consider coconut sugar for a healthier option
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked
- chili powder Optional, for an extra kick
- fresh chives or parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the bacon strips on a baking sheet and cook for about 15-20 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway through.
- While the bacon is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes until caramelized.
- Once onions are soft, add bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the liquid has reduced and the onions are sticky and glossy.
- Remove the bacon from the oven and wrap each hot dog with a strip of bacon, securing it with toothpicks if necessary.
- Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
Serving
- Once ready, place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in your hot dog buns and top generously with bourbon-glazed onions. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley.