Bacon and Water Chestnuts

I think this appetizer is one of Jessa's favorites and even though they're a bit time consuming to make, they can be made ahead and frozen.  I usually only make them at Christmas, but make sure I have enough for New Year's Eve or Day. One can of water chestnuts is almost enough for one pound of bacon but I double this and use three cans of water chestnuts for two pounds of bacon.

2 lbs. sliced bacon
3 cans whole water chestnuts cut into quarters or thirds
toothpicks

2 cups ketchup
2 cups brown sugar

Cut each bacon slice into 4 pieces, wrap the bacon around the quartered water chestnut and secure with a toothpick. Line a dinner plate with about 4 layers of paper towels and place the pieces on the plate. Cover by laying a sheet of paper towel lightly over the plate. Microwave for 3 to 5 minutes.  I start out at 3 minutes, check them, and add more time as needed. (mine usually take 5 minutes)
For the sauce, heat the ketchup and brown sugar together until the sugar dissolves and sauce is warm.
If making ahead, freeze the sauce and water chestnuts separately.  To serve, place some sauce in a serving dish and then coat the water chestnuts with the sauce and microwave for a minute or two until warm.