Angels on Horseback / Devils on Horseback - September 29 - Michaelmas

These appetizers can be found in the classic 1888 Victorian cookbook Mrs. Beeton’s Book of Household Management. I can’t resist them for this feast day! The “angels” are shucked oysters in Mrs. Beeton’s, but other recipes use scallops. We prefer the latter since they’re more readily available. “Devils” are usually pitted prunes, but can also be dates. Partially pre- cooking the bacon keeps the insides from getting overdone. Defrost frozen scallops in the fridge overnight or in a cold water bath in the sink for 30-60 minutes. Larger scallops can be cut in half to get 18 pieces. Oysters should be shucked and rinsed.

Nota Bene: In the oven is how I always cook bacon, IMHO it’s just far superior to frying it on the stove top. For your regular bacon needs, just follow the directions below, but don’t
worry about cutting the bacon, and leave it in until it’s to the crispness you prefer. It takes 20-40 minutes total, depending on the thickness of the bacon. No turning, no splattering, you can make a lot at once, and you can do other tasks while it cooks!