Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s seriously changed my life. What is your favorite Bacon Jam recipe? If you’re anything like me and love a good sweet and savory combination, this is going to blow your mind. Think of it as a sophisticated, grown-up version of peanut butter and jelly, but with smoky bacon. Is there a touch of sweetness? Is it really that easy to make a cake? I’m not kidding, everything!
What is Bacon Jam?
What is bacon jam? Imagine the crispy, salty deliciousness of perfectly cooked bacon, then picture it simmered. With sweet onions, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar for caramelized onions. Is bacon a condiment? What is a savory marmalade? What’s a flavor explosion in your mouth? What is the best part about this incredibly versatile computer? What are some good ways to use it on burgers, stir it into pasta, or spread it over toast?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, there are a million reasons to adore this Bacon Jam Recipe, but let me break down the highlights. First, the flavor is just out of this world. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and that touch of balsamic vinegar creates a symphony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. What I love most is how surprisingly simple it is to make. Seriously, it only takes about an hour from start to finish, and most of that is just simmering time. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your everyday meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, bacon jam is incredibly cost-effective. A pound of bacon goes a long way, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. This recipe is the ultimate way to add a gourmet touch to your cooking without breaking the bank.
What are some of the best Bacon Jam recipes? I’ve used it as a glaze for roasted chicken, stirred it into creamy mac and cheese, and even served it with sour cream. Is it a good idea to serve it with grilled cheese Is this a crowd pleaser? What are some of the best recipes ever made? I’ve always wanted to impress my friends and family with this one, and it’s always a hit. What are some of the best Bacon Jam recipes?
How do you make Bacon Jam?
Quick Overview
Making this Bacon Jam Recipe is surprisingly easy! You’ll start by cooking bacon until it’s crispy, then sautéing onions in the rendered bacon fat. Add a touch of brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and a few other ingredients, and let it simmer until it thickens into a delicious jam. The best part? It’s mostly hands-off cooking, so you can relax while the magic happens. This method is special because it lets the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a complex and satisfying condiment.
Ingredients
For the Main Bacon Jam:
• 1 pound thick-cut bacon, preferably applewood smoked for extra flavor
• 2 large yellow onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (the good stuff makes a difference!
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (optional, but adds depth)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, rendering as much fat as possible. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Remove bacon from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly. How do you use bacon fat in a skillet?
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet, brown the onions and bacon fat. Stir to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. This step is crucial for developing that sweet, rich flavor. Don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add the Garlic and Spices
Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the onions. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze with Balsamic Vinegar
What are the browned bits in a skillet? Pour in the balsamic vinegar and stir to deglaze. What is the best way to make jam?
Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Crumble or chop the cooked bacon and add it back to the skillet along with the brown sugar, coffee (if using), and maple syrup. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Simmer and Thicken
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally. Occasionally, until the jam has thickened and the liquid has reduced, about 30-40 minutes. The jam should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Cool and Store
How do you make Bacon Jam? Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool completely. As it cools, it will thicken even more. Once cooled, transfer the jam to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
8: Taste and Adjust
Give the cooled jam a taste. If it’s not sweet enough for your liking, add a touch more maple syrup or brown sugar. If it needs more tang, add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
9: Puree (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the jam. I like to leave it a little chunky for texture, but it’s totally up to you.
What should I serve it with?
Okay, now for the fun part – figuring out what to do with this amazing Bacon Jam Recipe! The possibilities are endless, but here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:
For Breakfast:Spread it on toasted bagels with cream cheese, or add a dollop to your morning eggs. I love it with a side of crispy hash browns and ice cold coffee.
For Brunch:How do you serve brunch with cheese and charcuterie? For waffles or pancakes. What are some good ways to enjoy iced tea with a mimosa?
As a Snack:Serve with crackers, crostini, or even apple slices for a sweet and savory snack. Is it good with a brie or cheddar cheese?
For Dinner:What are some ways to use it on a grilled cheese sandwich? I’ve even stirred it into pasta for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
My family loves grilled cheese. A little secret trick? Add a thin layer of pepper jack cheese. The added spice just makes the whole thing sing!
How do you make Bacon Jam?
What are some of the best Bacon Jam recipes? What are some of the best ways to make bacon jam?
Bacon Quality:What are some good ways to use bacon? What’s your favorite applewood smoked bacon?
Onion Cara Don’t rush the onion caramelization process. This is key to developing that sweet, rich flavor. Cook the onions over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and golden brown.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference. If you like a little heat, add a bit more. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit them altogether.
Balsamic Vinegar: Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor. The better the vinegar, the better the jam.
Coffee Addition: The coffee is optional, but I highly recommend adding it. It adds a depth of flavor that complements the bacon and onions perfectly. Make sure it is a very strong brew.
Storage: Store the Bacon Jam Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week, but I doubt it will last that long!
Experiment: Get creative with your Bacon Jam Recipe! Try adding different spices, herbs, or even a splash of bourbon for a unique flavor twist. I once added a touch of chipotle powder and it was amazing!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping your Bacon Jam Recipe fresh and delicious. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. It’s best kept chilled.
Refrigerator Storage: Once cooled, transfer the jam to an airtight container (like a mason jar) and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about a week, maybe a little longer if properly sealed.
Freezer Instructions: Yep, you can freeze it! I like to portion it out into small freezer-safe containers or even ice cube trays for easy thawing. It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Reheating: Reheat the Bacon Jam Recipe gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. It’s usually fine straight from the fridge though, depending on what you’re using it on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it, friends! My secret weapon for adding a little bit of deliciousness to just about anything. I truly believe this Bacon Jam Recipe is a must-try for any food lover. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and the flavor is simply addictive. If you’re a fan of this sweet and savory combo, you might also enjoy my recipe for caramelized onion and fig tartlets. They offer a similar flavor profile with a sophisticated twist. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you’ve added a personal touch or different variations. Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you’ve enjoyed it!
Bacon Jam Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Bacon
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- 0.5 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving bacon grease.
- Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard to the bacon grease. Bring to a simmer.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and stir it into the mixture. Simmer until thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
