Trying Something New + Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

I have to admit the Super Bowl isn't exactly my thing.  In fact, I'm not a huge fan of professional sports.  I much prefer collegiate programs.  But, as I previously mentioned, I was excited for this game.  I was invited to a party and needed to bring a tasty treat.  We all have our go-to appetizers.  The ones we can make with our eyes closed.  The tasty bites that everyone requests.  Time and time again. For me, that would most likely be my shrimp cocktail.  In fact, that is what I had planned on bringing. I had even told my sister it was going to be my contribution.  I was committed.

I went to the store, armed with a very long list, and hit up the butcher/fish monger area first.  Yay! Shrimp was on sale!!  Fancy bacon was also on sale!!!  The wheels started to turn.  I had had a very long, stressful week.  My weekend was also jam packed.  The idea of hitting 10 more aisles, and, battling with fellow shoppers for condiments, candies and crackers did not seem appealing.  I decided to throw caution to the wind and change my dish.  Instead of picking up 15 items, I picked up 2, knowing I had enough staples in my pantry and fridge to turn this into something wonderful.

Bacon.  Shrimp.  Not exactly a Hail Mary!

I decided to up the level of magic with some brown sugar and a hint of spice. Well the results were absolutely wonderful!  

2 Pounds Medium Shrimp: raw, peeled & deveined {25-30 Count}

1.5 Pounds Quality Bacon

3 Tsp Siracha {Amount can be adjusted based on your desired heat level}

1 Tbs Teriyaki Sauce 

1 Tbs Minced Garlic

1.5 Tsp Cinnamon

2 Tbs Brown Sugar

Toothpicks

In a large bowl, mix the shrimp, siracha, teriyaki sauce, garlic and cinnamon together.  Let marinade for at least 30 minutes.  No longer than 1 hour.

Cut bacon into wrap-able strips.  The approach may vary based on the thickness and size of the strips. 

Spoiler Alert: This is the final product.  I didn't get a good shot of the uncooked wrap job.  Its hard to get shots like that solo.

Wrap shrimp and secure with toothpicks

Place in a large baking dish. {This can sit over night}  Sprinkle brown sugar over shrimp.

Bake at 400 for 30-40 minutes.  Every ten minutes, shake the pan and make sure the shrimp are being basted in the cooking liquid.  Until the bacon is golden brown and crispy on the edges.  {The shrimp will cook completely early on.  Don't worry about them drying out.  The fat from the bacon will prevent that.  As will the basting.}