Roasted Bacon with Daikon

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange bacon strips on one side of a large rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.

   Tip: Slightly overlapping bacon is fine as it will shrink during cooking.

2. 2

   Toss daikon batons with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on the other half of the baking sheet, keeping them separate from the bacon.

   Tip: The daikon will release moisture, so keep it away from the bacon to maintain crispness.

3. 3

   Roast everything together for 25-30 minutes, stirring the daikon halfway through, until bacon is crispy and daikon is golden brown and tender.

   Tip: Check bacon at the 20-minute mark if you prefer it less crispy.

4. 4

   While roasting, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl.

   Tip: Prepare this glaze while the oven preheats to save time.

5. 5

   Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully pour the glaze over both the bacon and daikon, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.

   Tip: The hot pan will help the glaze caramelize slightly on the vegetables and bacon.

6. 6

   Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes until the glaze is sticky and slightly bubbling around the edges.

   Tip: Watch carefully so the glaze doesn't burn on the bottom of the pan.

7. 7

   Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving warm.

   Tip: Serve immediately while the bacon is still crispy and the daikon is warm.