Mississippi Bourbon Bacon Bites

Introduction

These Mississippi Bourbon Bacon Bites are a show-stopping appetizer! Thick-cut bacon is caramelized with brown sugar and bourbon, grilled until crispy, and infused with smoky goodness. Cooking on the Arteflame grill ensures even caramelization without burning, giving your bacon the perfect crisp and deep, rich flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb thick-cut bacon, cut into bite-size strips
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place napkins inside the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the napkins and allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the glaze

1. In a small bowl, combine bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and black pepper.
2. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves.

Step 3: Grill the bacon bites

1. Spread butter over the Arteflame flat cooktop to prevent sticking.
2. Place bacon pieces on the griddle near the center for optimal heat.
3. Allow the bacon to cook for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
4. Brush each piece with the bourbon glaze and let it caramelize for another 2 minutes.
5. Move bacon to a slightly cooler section of the cooktop and let the glaze set.

Step 4: Remove and serve

1. Remove bacon once it reaches desired crispiness.
2. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

• Move bacon away from the center if it's cooking too fast to prevent burning.
• Use high-quality thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
• Remove bacon from the grill right before it's completely done, as it will continue cooking off the heat.

Variations

1. Spicy Maple Bacon Bites: Swap bourbon with maple syrup, add extra cayenne, and a pinch of cinnamon.
2. Honey Sriracha Bacon Bites: Replace brown sugar with honey and mix in a teaspoon of sriracha for a sweet and spicy kick.
3. Garlic Parmesan Bacon Bites: Omit the brown sugar and bourbon, and instead sprinkle fresh garlic powder and grated Parmesan over the bacon after cooking.
4. Sweet Chili Bacon Bites: Brush bacon with sweet Thai chili sauce and top with sesame seeds.
5. Balsamic Glazed Bacon Bites: Substitute bourbon with balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet contrast.

Best pairings

• Cold craft beer or bourbon-based cocktails
• Grilled cheese sliders
• Smoky BBQ dipping sauces
• Charred Brussels sprouts on the Arteflame

Conclusion

The Arteflame grill gives these Mississippi Bourbon Bacon Bites a rich, caramelized flavor with crispy edges. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these bacon bites will impress any crowd!