Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a mouthwatering dish that combines the smoky, savory flavor of bacon with the fresh, slightly crunchy bite of asparagus. It’s a versatile side dish or appetizer that elevates any BBQ menu and is perfect for those who appreciate a balance of flavors and textures. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect bacon-wrapped asparagus, from selecting ingredients to cooking tips that will make this dish a staple at your next cookout.
Why Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus?
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is the perfect combination of flavors—salty, smoky bacon paired with the fresh, slightly earthy taste of asparagus. It’s a dish that appeals to a wide range of palates, making it an excellent choice for gatherings, family dinners, or even a special treat for yourself. At Fatty Butts BBQ, we believe in elevating simple ingredients into standout dishes, and bacon-wrapped asparagus is a great example of this philosophy.
Selecting the Best Ingredients
The success of any dish starts with the quality of its ingredients. Here’s what you need to look for when shopping for bacon-wrapped asparagus:
1. Asparagus:
Choose fresh, firm asparagus spears with tight tips. The stalks should be bright green and free of wilting. Thicker spears are often better for grilling because they hold up well under the heat and provide a nice crunch that complements the crispy bacon.
2. Bacon:
Opt for high-quality, thin-cut bacon for this recipe. Thick-cut bacon takes longer to cook and may not crisp up by the time the asparagus is perfectly done. For an extra layer of flavor, you can use smoked or peppered bacon, adding an additional depth of taste to the dish.
3. Seasonings:
While bacon adds a lot of flavor, a little extra seasoning can elevate your bacon-wrapped asparagus. A touch of garlic powder, cracked black pepper, and a hint of paprika can add an extra punch of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a light drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy twist.
How to Prepare Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
1. Prepping the Asparagus:
Begin by washing the asparagus spears and trimming the woody ends. A general rule is to cut about an inch off the bottom. You can also gently bend each spear until it snaps naturally, as this usually occurs right where the tough part ends.
2. Wrapping the Asparagus:
Take one slice of bacon and start wrapping it around each asparagus spear. Begin at the bottom, working your way up in a spiral motion, leaving a little space between each wrap to allow the asparagus to cook through. Depending on the size of your spears, you can bundle two or three spears together before wrapping them in bacon for a heartier bite.
3. Seasoning:
Once all the asparagus spears are wrapped, season them lightly. A sprinkle of black pepper or a dash of garlic powder can enhance the flavors without overpowering the natural taste of the bacon and asparagus.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook bacon-wrapped asparagus, each with its unique benefits. Here are the most popular methods:
1. Grilling:
Grilling bacon-wrapped asparagus is a favorite method at Fatty Butts BBQ because it infuses the dish with a rich, smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the wrapped spears directly on the grill grates. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
2. Oven Baking:
Oven baking is another excellent way to cook bacon-wrapped asparagus, especially if you’re making a large batch. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack to catch any drippings. Place the wrapped asparagus on the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
3. Air Frying:
For a quick and crispy option, try air frying. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the asparagus in batches for about 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through. This method yields crispy bacon and perfectly cooked asparagus in record time.
Perfect Pairings for Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your BBQ spread:
- Smoked Brisket: The rich, smoky flavor of brisket is a natural pairing with the savory asparagus.
- Grilled Chicken Thighs: Juicy chicken thighs with crispy skin match the textures of this side dish perfectly.
- BBQ Ribs: The slightly sweet and smoky bacon complements the bold, saucy ribs.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, comforting side that balances the crispness of the asparagus.
Why Choose Fatty Butts BBQ for Your BBQ Inspirations?
At Fatty Butts BBQ, we are all about making BBQ accessible, fun, and, most importantly, delicious. Our focus is on sharing recipes that combine bold flavors with easy preparation, like this bacon-wrapped asparagus. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just firing up the grill for the first time, our recipes are designed to help you impress your guests with minimal effort. So, fire up your grill and give this bacon-wrapped asparagus a try – it’s sure to be a hit at your next BBQ!
In Conclusion:
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is the ultimate BBQ side dish that brings together the best of both worlds – the fresh taste of asparagus and the irresistible smokiness of bacon. It’s easy to make, versatile, and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Next time you’re planning a BBQ, remember to add this simple yet spectacular dish to your menu. At Fatty Butts BBQ, we believe every meal should be memorable, and bacon-wrapped asparagus is one surefire way to make that happen!