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Manhattan Bites

Manhattan Bites are an appetizer inspired by the classic cocktail, featuring savory rye bread topped with a creamy vermouth-infused cheese spread and garnished with a cherry, bacon, and olive.

Difficulty
Difficulty
Medium
Prep Time
Prep Time
20 min
Cost
Cost
Medium
Calories
150
Protein
5g
Sugar
2g
NEW

Manhattan Bites

Introduction to Manhattan Bites

Manhattan is not just a bustling metropolis; it's a hub of diverse culinary traditions. The iconic Manhattan Bites capture the essence of the city's vibrant food scene, blending the cosmopolitan charm of a Manhattan cocktail with the comfort of a perfectly crafted appetizer. These delightful bites embody the spirit of the city they are named after, offering a unique experience where savory meets subtle sweetness.

Origins of the Recipe

Inspired by both the iconic Manhattan cocktail and the need for on-the-go, yet gourmet food, Manhattan Bites initially made their appearance at high-end New York cocktail parties in the late 20th century. The combination of traditional cocktail ingredients in a solid state quickly gained popularity, leading to its widespread adoption by chefs across the globe seeking to infuse the iconic flavors of vermouth and cherry into creative cuisines.

Ingredients for Manhattan Bites

Equipment Needed

  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Oven
  • Cooking timer
  • Skewers

Preparation Steps

  1. Begin by slicing the rye bread into small, bite-sized squares.
  2. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese over each piece.
  3. Prepare the vermouth jelly according to your favorite recipe or purchase it ready-made. Spread a thin layer over the cream cheese.
  4. Drizzle a bit of the cherry reduction over the top.
  5. Cook the bacon in the oven until crispy. Set your cooking timer to avoid overcooking.

Cooking Process

  1. Let the cooked bacon cool down before cutting it into small pieces.
  2. Layer the bacon pieces on the prepared rye bread squares.
  3. Top each bite with a slice of olive.
  4. Insert a small rosemary sprig as a garnish.
  5. Place each bite onto a skewer for easy serving.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Enjoying the Manhattan Bites

The best way to enjoy these deliciously crafted Manhattan Bites is with a group of friends during a cozy evening gathering or a classy cocktail party. Pair them with a classic Manhattan cocktail to enhance the culinary experience or serve them alongside an elegant charcuterie board. The harmony of flavors will transport your taste buds, offering an extraordinary tasting experience unique to the iconic city of New York.

Remember to set the cooking timer for each step to ensure each component is prepared to perfection!

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