Angels on horseback receipe

Angels on Horseback Recipe

What is Angels on Horseback?

Angels on horseback receipe is a classic British appetizer that features oysters wrapped in crispy bacon and is often served on toast or as a canapé. This simple yet elegant dish has been a popular choice for special occasions, holiday gatherings, and cocktail parties for centuries.

The combination of the briny, tender oyster and the crispy, smoky bacon creates a delicious contrast of textures and flavors, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

History and Origin of the Dish

Angels on horseback receipe

The history of Angels on Horseback dates back to 19th-century England, where it was served as a luxurious dish among the aristocracy. The recipe later gained popularity in France and the United States, becoming a staple at dinner parties and upscale restaurants.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of Angels on Horseback appeared in Mrs. Beeton’s Book of Household Management (1861), a famous Victorian-era cookbook. The dish was often served as an appetizer or a savory course after dessert, following the traditional British dining customs of the time.

During the mid-20th century, Angels on Horseback became a popular hors d’oeuvre at cocktail parties and formal events, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.

Meaning Behind the Name

Angels on horseback receipe

The name “Angels on Horseback” is believed to come from the appearance of the dish. When the bacon curls around the oyster during cooking, it resembles a wing, while the oyster itself represents the “angel.” The phrase “on horseback” refers to how the oyster is wrapped or placed on top of another element, much like a rider on a horse.

Some food historians suggest that the name could also be linked to religious and mythical imagery associated with angels, highlighting the dish’s elegance and heavenly taste.

Angels on Horseback vs. Devils on Horseback

Angels on Horseback and Devils on Horseback are both classic hors d’oeuvres featuring a delicious combination of bacon-wrapped ingredients. However, the key difference lies in what’s inside the bacon.

Key Differences Between the Two Dishes

Feature	Angels on Horseback	Devils on Horseback
Main Ingredient	Oysters	Prunes or dates
Taste Profile	Briny, salty, and smoky	Sweet, smoky, and slightly chewy
Texture	Soft oyster with crispy bacon	Tender fruit wrapped in crispy bacon
Origin	England (19th century)	England (medieval origins)
Occasions	Seafood lovers, upscale dining	Holiday parties, festive gatherings
Serving Style	Canapé, appetizer, or side dish	Sweet-savory snack, often with stuffing

Which One Should You Choose?

• If you love seafood and enjoy a more savory umami flavor, Angels on Horseback is the perfect choice.
• If you prefer a sweet and smoky combination, Devils on Horseback will satisfy your taste buds.
• Both dishes are great for parties, but Angels on Horseback is often considered more elegant, while Devils on Horseback is more festive and comforting.

Ingredients

What You Need to Make Angels on Horseback

Main Ingredients:

• 12 fresh oysters, shucked
• 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Toothpicks or skewers, for securing the bacon

Optional Garnishes & Variations:

• Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped, for garnish
• A dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick
• Thin slices of toast or crackers, for serving
• Garlic butter drizzle, for extra richness

How to Make Angels on Horseback

Making Angels on Horseback is a quick and simple process, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal preparation. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve the perfect balance of crispy bacon and tender, briny oysters.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oysters

• Shuck the oysters if they are fresh. Carefully remove them from the shell and pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.
• If using canned or pre-shucked oysters, drain them well and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

• Cut the bacon slices in half so they wrap neatly around the oysters.
• Lightly pre-cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes (optional but recommended). This helps achieve extra crispiness without overcooking the oysters.

Step 3: Wrap the Oysters

• Place each oyster on one end of a bacon strip.
• Roll the bacon tightly around the oyster and secure it with a toothpick or skewer.

Step 4: Season & Add Flavor

• Drizzle the oysters with melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.
• Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the wrapped oysters.

Step 5: Cook the Angels on Horseback

Choose one of the following cooking methods:

Broiling (Recommended):

• Preheat your broiler to high (500°F/260°C).
• Place the bacon-wrapped oysters on a foil-lined baking sheet or grill rack.
• Broil for 3–5 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is golden brown and crispy.

Baking:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange the oysters on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until crispy.

Grilling:

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, flipping once, until the bacon is crisp.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

• Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve immediately on toasted bread, crackers, or a platter with lemon wedges.

Recipe Tips for Best Results

• Pre-cook the bacon slightly before wrapping to prevent undercooked fat.
• Use fresh, high-quality oysters for the best briny flavor.
• Drain the oysters well before wrapping to avoid excess moisture.
• For a spicy twist, add a few drops of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Serve immediately! This dish tastes best when fresh out of the oven, as the oysters remain tender and the bacon stays crisp.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~180 kcal
Protein	~12g
Total Fat	~14g
Saturated Fat	~5g
Cholesterol	~40mg
Carbohydrates	~1g
Sodium	~350mg

These values may vary slightly depending on the type of bacon and oysters used. For a lower-fat option, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional pork bacon.

More Appetizers for Holiday Feasts

Angels on horseback receipe

If you love Angels on Horseback, you’ll enjoy these delicious appetizer ideas for your next holiday gathering:

1. Devils on Horseback – Bacon-wrapped prunes or dates stuffed with cheese or almonds.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops – Buttery scallops wrapped in crispy bacon.
3. Oysters Rockefeller – Baked oysters with butter, spinach, and breadcrumbs.
4. Shrimp Cocktail – Chilled shrimp served with zesty cocktail sauce.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Button mushrooms filled with garlic, cream cheese, and herbs.
6. Mini Beef Wellington Bites – Puff pastry-wrapped beef tenderloin bites.

Enjoy this timeless appetizer at your next gathering!