Warm Maple Bacon Vinaigrette

This Warm Maple Bacon Vinaigrette is a classic dressing on a whole new level with a perfect balance of bacon grease, maple syrup, mustard, and optional ingredients to elevate the depth of flavor. Try it with a hearty spinach salad or with The Tailgate’s Kale Beats Bacon Salad!

Yield: About ½ a cup
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Special Equipment: small saucepan, whisk, heat safe bowl

Ingredients

• 3 Tbsp, bacon grease, reserved, use slightly warmed grease

• 2 Tbsp, olive oil

• 1 Tbsp, dijon mustard

• 1 Tbsp, maple syrup

• 1 Tbsp, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice

• 1 tsp sherry vinegar, optional, for nutty acidity

• ¼ tsp ground ginger, optional, for a warm kick that cuts the richness

• ¼ tsp smoked paprika, optional for smokiness and depth

• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, gently warm the reserved bacon grease until fully liquid (the ideal temperature is warm, not sizzling hot). Remove immediately from heat. Stir in the olive oil.

2. Add the dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), sherry vinegar, ground ginger, and smoked paprika (if using) to a heat safe bowl and whisk together.

3. Add a splash of the bacon/olive oil mixture to the mustard and maple mixture, whisking vigorously to combine. Continue to slowly incorporate the bacon oil into the bowl while whisking until the dressing is fully emulsified and slightly creamy. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

   Serving Suggestion: Whisk again just before serving, as the dressing will settle. Try it with this Kale Beets Bacon Salad or on roasted sweet potatoes!