Bacon Jam
Bacon Jam
A sweet and savory spread made with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, brown sugar, and a touch of vinegar. Perfect on burgers, sandwiches, crackers, or even as a dip, this bacon jam adds rich, smoky flavor to any dish.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450 g) bacon, chopped
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
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1/4 cup maple syrup
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1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
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1/4 cup brewed coffee (optional for depth of flavor)
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
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Cook Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve 2–3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet. -
Cook Onions and Garlic:
Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook in reserved bacon fat over medium heat until caramelized, about 10–12 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes. -
Combine Ingredients:
Add cooked bacon back to the skillet along with brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee (if using), black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine. -
Simmer:
Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until thick and jam-like. -
Blend (Optional):
For a smoother consistency, pulse mixture a few times in a food processor or use an immersion blender until desired texture is reached. -
Cool and Store:
Allow bacon jam to cool slightly before transferring to a jar or container. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Equipment
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Large skillet
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Cutting board
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Sharp knife
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Slotted spoon
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Spatula or wooden spoon
-
Measuring cups and spoons
-
Food processor or immersion blender (optional)
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Airtight container or jar
Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
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Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Serving Size
Makes about 2 cups, serves 6–8 as a condiment
Bacon Jam
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Slotted spoon
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor or immersion blender (optional)
- Airtight container or jar
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450 g bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee optional for depth of flavor
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Cook Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve 2–3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Cook Onions and Garlic:
- Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook in reserved bacon fat over medium heat until caramelized, about 10–12 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add cooked bacon back to the skillet along with brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee (if using), black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until thick and jam-like.
- Blend (Optional):
- For a smoother consistency, pulse mixture a few times in a food processor or use an immersion blender until desired texture is reached.
- Cool and Store:
- Allow bacon jam to cool slightly before transferring to a jar or container. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make bacon jam ahead of time?
Yes. Bacon jam can be made a day or two in advance. Flavors improve as it sits.
Can I freeze bacon jam?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Yes, but the flavor will be milder and less smoky.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes. Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce.
Can I make it smoother or chunkier?
Yes. Pulse in a food processor for a smoother texture or leave it chunky for more bite.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes. Apple cider vinegar is recommended, but balsamic or red wine vinegar can work for a different flavor profile.
How long does bacon jam last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 2 weeks.
Can I make it without sugar or maple syrup?
Yes, but the sweetness balances the savory bacon, so flavor will be less rich.
Can I use it on things other than bread or burgers?
Yes. It pairs well with crackers, cheese boards, roasted vegetables, or even scrambled eggs.
How do I prevent it from becoming too watery?
Simmer on low heat until most liquid is reduced and the mixture is thick and jam-like.
How To Store Bacon Jam
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container or jar for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer:
Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Serving Tips:
Serve as a spread on sandwiches or burgers, dollop on scrambled eggs, or use as a flavorful addition to cheese boards and appetizers.
