Bacon-wrapped Chili Cheese Poppers

Make a vertical slit on one side of each finger chili. Scrape off the seeds and core; discard.

 

Insert a cheese stick inside a finger chili and wrap chili tightly with a bacon slice. Secure with a toothpick. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Make the marinara sauce: Sauté garlic and onion in olive oil; do not brown. Add tomatoes and chicken
stock or water. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. Garnish with basil leaves before serving.

Deep-fry finger chilies until crisp. Serve immediately with marinara sauce.