Why Make This Recipe

Honey-Glazed Shallots with Crispy Bacon is a delightful side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The combination of sweet honey, savory Worcestershire sauce, and crispy bacon elevates the humble shallot into something truly special. It’s perfect for both everyday dinners and festive occasions. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

How to Make Honey-Glazed Shallots with Crispy Bacon

Ingredients

1 pound shallots
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil)
3–4 slices bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the shallots:
Place the shallots in a bowl, cover them with cold water, and let them soak for about 20 minutes to loosen the skins. After soaking, drain, peel, and cut them in half lengthwise.
Cook the bacon:
In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
Parboil the shallots:
Add the peeled shallots to the same pan and pour in enough cool water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Drain the water completely.
Add the glaze:
Return the shallots to the skillet. Add butter, honey, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until the shallots are well coated with the glaze.
Roast:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skillet in the oven and roast for 10–15 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the shallots turn golden brown and the glaze thickens into a syrupy coating.
Finish with bacon:
Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over the glazed shallots. Toss lightly and serve warm.
Chef’s Tip:
For a touch of freshness and color, add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve Honey-Glazed Shallots with Crispy Bacon

Honey-Glazed Shallots with Crispy Bacon can be served alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as part of a hearty vegetarian meal. This dish adds a unique flavor to your plate and makes for a perfect comforting side.

How to Store Honey-Glazed Shallots with Crispy Bacon

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving again.

Tips to Make Honey-Glazed Shallots with Crispy Bacon

Make sure to soak shallots properly; this helps in peeling them easily.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of your favorite herbs or spices while cooking.

Variation

You can experiment with this recipe by adding other vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts to the dish. They will roast beautifully alongside the shallots and absorb the lovely glaze.

FAQs

Can I use pearl onions instead of shallots?
Yes, pearl onions can be a great substitute. They will offer a slightly different flavor but will work well in this recipe.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the bacon and use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. The dish will still be delicious.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the shallots and bacon ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.