Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is enjoyed around the world, but try it Japanese-style as well. The texture of asparagus pairs well with the savory saltiness of bacon, creating a delightful dish.
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What is Japanese Style Bacon Wrapped Asparagus?
Japanese Style Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is, as the name suggests, a dish made by wrapping asparagus with bacon and then sautéing it. Some characteristics of the Japanese style include using bacon with a tender texture, similar to ham even after cooking, and cutting the asparagus into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
The most common seasoning is quite simple, taking advantage of the salty taste of the bacon itself and just sprinkling it with black pepper. However, if you would like to add a Japanese twist to the flavor, feel free to incorporate a small amount of mirin and soy sauce toward the end of the cooking process.
In Japan, this dish is commonly served not only as a side dish but also in bento (lunch boxes) because it is easy to make and addictive. Try making it at your dining table as well.
Differences in bacon
The bacon commonly enjoyed in Japan is pre-cooked and has a ham-like texture rather than being crispy. Therefore, it may differ slightly from the bacon sold in your local area.
Using tender bacon allows you to enjoy the flavor and texture of asparagus even more. It offers a different appeal compared to the crispy variety, so I recommend trying tender bacon (or ham) for this Japanese-style dish.
Other bacon wrapped dishes
In addition to bacon wrapped asparagus, there are other popular bacon wrapped dishes in Japan. These include "Bacon Wrapped Vegetables" and "Bacon Wrapped Enoki Mushrooms."
To make bacon wrapped vegetables, you can replace asparagus with your favorite vegetables cut into sticks similar to asparagus. In Japan, carrots, green beans, and potatoes are commonly used.
With bacon wrapped enoki mushrooms, you can enjoy the delightful texture of enoki mushrooms. For more details, please refer to the linked page. Both dishes are popular in Japan.
📋Step-by-step recipe
Ingredients
- 8 asparagus spears
- 8 slices thin-cut bacon, sliced in half (If available, Japanese-style bacon with a tender texture is recommended.)
- 1 Tbsp sake
- pinch of ground black pepper
Instructions
🕒 Total: 15 mins
Step 1
Trim the tough ends of asparagus by about ⅘ inch (2cm), then cut the stalks into thirds. If the asparagus skins are tough, peel them.
Step 2
Place three pieces of asparagus on a slice of bacon and roll them up. Secure the end of each bacon slice with a toothpick to prevent it from falling apart. Repeat this process with all the asparagus and bacon.
Step 3
Heat oil in a pan. Once the pan is hot, add the bacon wrapped asparagus and sauté over medium heat. When they are browned, flip them over and cook on all sides.
Step 4
Add sake to the pan, cover with a lid, and let it steam over low heat for a few minutes until the asparagus becomes tender.
Step 5
Turn off the heat, remove the lid, and sprinkle black pepper over the bacon wrapped asparagus.
To Store
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Recipe card
Japanese Style Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients
- 8 asparagus spears
- 8 slices thin-cut bacon, sliced in half (If available, Japanese-style bacon with a tender texture is recommended.)
- 1 Tbsp sake
- pinch of ground black pepper
Instructions
- Trim the tough ends of asparagus by about ⅘ inch (2cm), then cut the stalks into thirds. If the asparagus skins are tough, peel them.
- Place three pieces of asparagus on a slice of bacon and roll them up. Secure the end of each bacon slice with a toothpick to prevent it from falling apart. Repeat this process with all the asparagus and bacon.
- Heat oil in a pan. Once the pan is hot, add the bacon wrapped asparagus and sauté over medium heat. When they are browned, flip them over and cook on all sides.
- Add sake to the pan, cover with a lid, and let it steam over low heat for a few minutes until the asparagus becomes tender.
- Turn off the heat, remove the lid, and sprinkle black pepper over the bacon wrapped asparagus.
Notes
- You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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