Smoky Bacon Bourbon Beef Bites

These Smoky Bacon Bourbon Beef Bites are a delightful fusion of flavors, featuring tender beef marinated in a rich bourbon glaze, complemented by the crispy, savory notes of smoky bacon. Perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or as a hearty snack, these bites balance traditional barbecue elements with a creative twist from the bourbon, ensuring a deliciously satisfying experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 6 slices of smoky bacon, chopped
• 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Add the beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
4. In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, reserving some bacon fat in the skillet.
5. Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard the marinade.
6. In the skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the marinated beef cubes and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
7. Once cooked, remove from heat and toss the beef bites with the crispy bacon.
8. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.