Sweet and Savory Bacon-Wrapped Mango Bites

What Started it all:
Pecan, mango, honey, ginger, pink peppercorn, nutmeg, clove, cardamom, anise seed, lemon balm, lavender, cocoa, bacon, fennel, basil, rosemary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delightful combination of sweet mango, savory bacon, and a hint of aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for a quick appetizer or a fun snack that will impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 ripe mango, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon pink peppercorns, crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground clove
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon anise seed, crushed
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon balm, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried lavender
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1/2 bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the bacon: Cut each slice of bacon in half. You want to have enough to wrap around the mango pieces.
- Make the spice mix: In a small bowl, combine the honey, grated ginger, crushed pink peppercorns, nutmeg, clove, cardamom, and anise seed. Mix until well combined.
- Wrap the mango: Take a piece of mango and brush it with the honey spice mixture. Wrap it with half a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Repeat for all the mango pieces.
- Add fennel and herbs: On the same baking sheet, arrange the wrapped mango bites. Scatter the thinly sliced fennel around them. Sprinkle the chopped basil, rosemary, lemon balm, and dried lavender over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Finish with cocoa: Once out of the oven, lightly dust the bites with cocoa powder for an unexpected twist.
- Serve: Let the bites cool for a minute, then serve warm and enjoy the explosion of flavors!
These Sweet and Savory Bacon-Wrapped Mango Bites are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for any gathering, this quick recipe is sure to be a hit! Enjoy your culinary adventure!