Angels on Horseback I

Introduction

History

The origins of Angels on Horseback can be traced back to 19th century Britain, where it first appeared as a popular hors d'oeuvre. The name itself is whimsical and evokes a sense of elegance and delight. Over the years, this dish has traveled across the globe, undergoing various adaptations but always retaining its core elements of oysters wrapped in bacon. It's a testament to the timeless appeal of combining seafood with bacon.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Angels on Horseback turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh oysters for the best flavor and texture.

- Be careful not to overcook the bacon before wrapping it around the oysters, as it will continue to cook with the oysters.

- Secure the bacon tightly with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.

- Adjust cooking times based on the size of the oysters and the thickness of the bacon.

Serving Suggestions

Angels on Horseback can be served on a platter garnished with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. They're best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven or microwave, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

While the microwave method is quick and convenient, you can also cook Angels on Horseback in a conventional oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the oysters are cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those who do not eat pork, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute. Additionally, scallops can replace oysters for a different but equally delicious variation.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the oysters and wrap them in bacon ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes it easy to serve fresh Angels on Horseback without much last-minute preparation.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Angels on Horseback on a bed of coarse sea salt or crushed ice for an elegant presentation. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complements the richness of the bacon and the brininess of the oysters.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Angels on Horseback can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until the bacon is crispy and the oysters are heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Angels on Horseback contains approximately 70-100 calories, making it a relatively light appetizer option. The exact calorie count will vary based on the size of the oysters and the type of bacon used.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the lemon slices used for serving. Each serving contains approximately 2-3 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for low-carb diets.

Fats

Angels on Horseback are moderately high in fats due to the bacon. Each serving contains about 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the cut and brand of bacon used. The majority of this fat is unsaturated, with a smaller portion being saturated fat.

Proteins

Oysters are a great source of high-quality protein, and when combined with bacon, this dish provides approximately 6-8 grams of protein per serving. This makes it a satisfying appetizer that contributes to your daily protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Oysters are rich in several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including immune system health and metabolism.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this dish are shellfish (oysters) and pork (bacon). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish.

Summary

Overall, Angels on Horseback is a nutritious appetizer that offers a good balance of proteins and fats, with minimal carbohydrates. It's also a good source of several vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for those looking to enjoy a decadent treat without overindulging.

Summary

Angels on Horseback is a classic appetizer that combines the rich flavors of bacon with the delicate taste of oysters, creating a dish that's both indulgent and elegant. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's the perfect choice for special occasions or as a sophisticated addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Angels on Horseback. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in the countryside. My aunt was a wonderful cook, always whipping up delicious meals for our family to enjoy. One evening, she decided to make Angels on Horseback for dinner, and I was fascinated by the name of the dish.

As I watched her prepare the dish, I was amazed by how simple yet elegant it looked. She took large, juicy oysters and wrapped them in slices of smoky bacon before cooking them to crispy perfection. The combination of flavors and textures was truly divine, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

After that night, I begged my aunt to teach me how to make Angels on Horseback. She happily obliged, and we spent a whole afternoon in her kitchen, with her guiding me through each step of the recipe. I watched intently as she showed me how to shuck the oysters, wrap them in bacon, and cook them just right.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe for Angels on Horseback, adding my own little twists and tweaks along the way. I learned that the key to a truly delicious dish lies in using the freshest ingredients and cooking them with care and love. I sourced the best oysters from a local fishmonger and the finest bacon from a nearby butcher, ensuring that every bite of my Angels on Horseback was a taste of heaven.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I passed on the recipe for Angels on Horseback to my children and grandchildren. It became a beloved family tradition, a dish that we would always make for special occasions and gatherings. I taught my children how to shuck oysters and wrap them in bacon, just like my aunt had taught me all those years ago.

The recipe for Angels on Horseback became a symbol of love and connection for our family, a way for us to come together and celebrate the joys of life. Whenever we made the dish, we would reminisce about the times we had shared around the table, laughing and sharing stories as we savored each delicious bite.

To this day, Angels on Horseback remains one of my favorite recipes to make. It brings back memories of my aunt's cozy kitchen, the smell of sizzling bacon, and the taste of fresh oysters. I feel grateful for the knowledge and skills that she passed on to me, and I am proud to continue the tradition of making this dish for my family and loved ones.

As I look back on my life, I realize that cooking has always been a source of joy and comfort for me. It has brought me closer to my family, allowed me to express my creativity, and given me a sense of fulfillment and purpose. And as long as there are recipes to learn and dishes to create, I will always be a happy cook, sharing my love and passion for food with those around me.

Categories

| Bacon Recipes | British Recipes | Lemon Recipes | Microwave Recipes | Oyster Recipes | Seafood Appetizer Recipes | World Recipes |

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