Adopted by Die Armgat Chef – Facebook link for the recipe

Oepsies are a delightfully indulgent treat, perfectly balancing smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors. These skewered bites combine crispy bacon with juicy cherries, coated in a rich layer of sweet chili sauce or chutney for a mouthwatering glaze.

Assembling them is simple yet creative—threading bacon strips and cherries onto skewers allows for endless customization. Once coated with sauce, they’re grilled to caramelized perfection, bringing out the bacon’s crispiness and enhancing the cherries’ natural sweetness.

Ideal for braais, appetizers, or snack platters, Oepsies are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Just be warned—they disappear fast!

Method:

1. Assemble the skewers: Thread the bacon onto the skewers, placing a cherry between each strip. Get creative—add as many cherries and bacon pieces as you like!
2. Coat with sauce: Dip the skewers into sweet chili sauce or chutney. A combination of both works wonderfully.
3. Grill to perfection: Cook over moderate heat, turning frequently to ensure even caramelization.
4. Serve & enjoy: Remove from the grill and dig in! Make sure there’s plenty for everyone—you’ll definitely want more!

Beware—these are so tasty, you might just eat your fingers along with them!😊

These Oepsies sound absolutely irresistible! Here are some fun ways to use them beyond just serving them as skewers:

1. Party Appetizers – Arrange them on a platter with a dipping sauce like creamy garlic or honey mustard.
2. Brunch Addition – Pair them with fluffy scrambled eggs, toast, or waffles for a sweet-savory combo.
3. Bacon-Wrapped Bites – Try wrapping individual cherries in bacon and securing them with a toothpick for smaller snacks.
4. Salad Topper – Chop them up and toss over a fresh green salad with feta, nuts, and balsamic glaze.
5. Burger Upgrade – Add them to gourmet burgers for an extra smoky-sweet burst of flavor.
6. Grilled Flatbreads – Slice them up and arrange over cheesy naan or pizza for a unique topping.
7. Skewer Swap – Experiment with different fruits like pineapple or figs for interesting twists.
8. Sweet-Savory Dessert – Serve them with vanilla ice cream or mascarpone for an unexpected treat.

Oepsies are a delightful treat, perfect for a braai or casual gathering! Here are some great dishes and sides to serve alongside them:

• Garlic Bread – A classic choice to soak up the sweet and smoky flavors.
• Creamy Potato Salad – A refreshing contrast to the crispy bacon and cherries.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob – Adds a smoky sweetness that complements the dish.
• Chakalaka – A spicy South African relish that enhances the savory elements.
• Pickled Vegetables – The acidity balances the richness of the bacon.
• Cheese Platter – A mix of sharp and creamy cheeses pairs beautifully.
• Fresh Green Salad – Light and crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast.

Here are some fun variations to experiment with for your Oepsies recipe:

Variations

1. Savory Twist

• Swap cherries for dried apricots or prunes for a rich, slightly tangy sweetness.
• Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or black pepper for a deeper savory contrast.

2. Cheesy Indulgence

• Wrap each bacon strip around cream cheese-filled olives for a creamy surprise.
• Melt a bit of cheddar or gouda over the top just before serving.

3. Crispy Coating

• Roll the skewers in crushed nuts (almonds or pecans) before grilling for an added crunch.
• Brush with honey or maple syrup to create a beautifully caramelized glaze.

4. Spicy Kick

• Mix sriracha with the sweet chili sauce for an extra fiery bite.
• Sprinkle chili flakes or cayenne pepper over the skewers before grilling.

5. Fruit Fusion

• Alternate cherries with pineapple chunks or mango cubes for a tropical flair.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing balance.