Are you tired of the same old boring salad dressings? Do you crave a flavor punch that elevates your greens from ordinary to extraordinary? Then look no further! This simple hot bacon dressing recipe is the perfect solution for adding a delicious, savory depth to any salad. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to experience a homemade cooking revelation!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup bacon, diced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
Instructions:
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Crisp the Bacon: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan. Set the cooked bacon aside to cool slightly. Be sure to drain off excess grease before proceeding.
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Whisk the Dressing Base: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the bacon fat. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. This will help emulsify the dressing and create a richer flavor.
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Combine and Finish: Pour the vinegar mixture into the simmering broth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked bacon.
Tips for the Best Hot Bacon Dressing:
- Bacon, Bacon, Bacon: Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor. The crispier the bacon, the better the dressing!
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar or apple cider vinegar to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more brown sugar. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a bit more vinegar.
- Make it Ahead: This dressing tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Maple Bacon: Substitute maple syrup for some of the brown sugar for a delicious maple-bacon flavor combination.
- Herb Infusion: Add a tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of freshness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 3g
This simple hot bacon dressing is the perfect way to elevate your salads and add a burst of flavor to your meals. It’s a versatile and easy recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!