Angels on horseback

Angels on Horseback is a traditional British and American dish. It is a type of hors d'oeuvre or savory made of oysters wrapped in bacon. The dish, when served beside or on top of bread or toast, is also known as an oyster loaf. The dish is typically prepared by broiling or grilling the oysters and bacon until they are crispy.

History

The dish's name, "Angels on Horseback", is thought to have been derived from its appearance, with the oysters appearing to be "riding" the bacon. The first known reference to the dish by this name is in the 1888 edition of Mrs. Beeton's Book of Household Management. However, similar dishes have been part of British and American cuisine for much longer.

Variations

There are many variations of Angels on Horseback. In the United States, versions of the dish may use seafood other than oysters, such as scallops or shrimp. In the United Kingdom, a version of the dish known as "Devils on Horseback" substitutes the oysters with prunes or dates and is often served as part of a Christmas dinner.

Preparation and Serving

To prepare Angels on Horseback, oysters are shucked, then wrapped in slices of bacon. The wrapped oysters are then broiled or grilled until the bacon is crispy. The dish is typically served hot, often on toast or bread. It may be accompanied by a sauce, such as Worcestershire sauce or a butter sauce.

See Also

• Devils on Horseback
• Pigs in a blanket
• List of hors d'oeuvre