Bacon Jam Recipe: Bacon jam is a rich, savory-sweet spread made with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a blend of spices, vinegar, and sugar. It’s a flavor bomb that combines smoky, salty bacon with the tanginess of vinegar and the sweetness of brown sugar or maple syrup. Whether you’re a bacon lover or a foodie in search of a versatile condiment, bacon jam is a must-try.
Why Bacon Jam is So Popular?
The popularity of bacon jam comes from its unique combination of flavors and versatility. It works as a spread, dip, or topping for everything from toast to gourmet burgers. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser at parties and an excellent homemade gift for food lovers.
Ingredients Needed for Bacon Jam
Main Ingredients
To make a delicious bacon jam, you’ll need:
- 1 pound of bacon (preferably thick-cut)
- 2 large onions (yellow or red, sliced thin)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (minced)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup coffee (strongly brewed, for depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (for a slight kick)
Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
- Bourbon or whiskey (2 tablespoons for a boozy touch)
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (if you love heat)
- Thyme or rosemary (fresh herbs for earthy notes)
Tools and Equipment Required
Before diving into the recipe, gather these essential tools:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon (for stirring)
- Knife and cutting board (to prep ingredients)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor or blender (to blend the jam)
- Airtight jars (for storage)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bacon Jam
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients.
- Slice the bacon into 1-inch pieces so it cooks evenly.
- Thinly slice the onions and mince the garlic cloves.
- Brew a strong cup of coffee and measure out the sugar, vinegar, and other seasonings.
Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced bacon pieces and cook them until they’re crispy but not burnt. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is crispy, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet (it’s full of flavor).
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the thinly sliced onions.
- Sauté them over medium heat until they’re soft, golden, and caramelized. This takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Caramelizing the onions adds a natural sweetness to balance the smoky bacon and tangy vinegar.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Simmer
- Once the onions and garlic are ready, reduce the heat to low.
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet.
- Add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, coffee, and chili powder.
- Stir everything well to combine.
Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As it simmers, the flavors will meld together, and the mixture will thicken into a jam-like consistency.
Step 5: Blend to the Perfect Consistency
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the bacon mixture cool slightly.
- Transfer it to a food processor or blender. Pulse the mixture a few times to break it down, but don’t over-blend.
The texture should be chunky, not completely smooth. Think of it like a spreadable relish. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water or coffee to loosen it up.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Jam
Best Bacon to Use
Thick-cut bacon works best because it adds more texture and flavor. Avoid overly fatty or thin bacon slices.
Balancing Sweet, Salty, and Tangy Flavors
Taste as you go! Adjust the sweetness, acidity, or spice level based on your preference. Add more vinegar for tanginess or brown sugar for sweetness.
Ways to Use Bacon Jam
As a Spread on Toast and Sandwiches
Bacon jam is the perfect spread for breakfast toast or hearty sandwiches. Smear it generously on freshly toasted bread and pair it with cream cheese or avocado for an elevated flavor. It also works beautifully on grilled cheese sandwiches, adding a smoky-sweet twist to the gooey goodness.
Pairing with Meats and Cheeses
Bacon jam pairs excellently with charcuterie boards. Spread it on crackers or baguette slices and serve with hard cheeses like aged cheddar, gouda, or brie. The combination of salty meats like prosciutto or salami and bacon jam makes for a gourmet appetizer.
Adding to Burgers and Hotdogs
Take your burgers and hotdogs to the next level with bacon jam. Replace traditional ketchup with a dollop of bacon jam to give burgers an irresistible depth of flavor. It also complements grilled sausages and hotdogs perfectly, making it a backyard BBQ essential.
Storage Instructions
How to Store Bacon Jam Properly
To keep bacon jam fresh and safe to eat:
- Allow the jam to cool completely before storing it.
- Transfer it to an airtight container or sterilized glass jar.
- Store it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
How Long Bacon Jam Lasts
Bacon jam can last for up to 2-3 weeks when stored properly in the fridge. Always use a clean spoon to scoop out portions to prevent contamination. If you notice an off smell, change in texture, or mold, discard the jam immediately.
Can You Freeze Bacon Jam?
Yes, you can freeze bacon jam to extend its shelf life. Here’s how:
- Place the cooled bacon jam in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags.
- Leave a little room for expansion and seal tightly.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw, simply transfer the frozen bacon jam to the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Calories and Macros
Bacon jam is indulgent, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a rough breakdown for a standard serving size of 1 tablespoon:
- Calories: ~50-70
- Fat: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 4-6g
- Protein: 1-2g
Is Bacon Jam Healthy?
While bacon jam is not exactly a health food, it can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in small portions. The key is moderation. To make it slightly healthier, you can:
- Use low-sodium bacon.
- Reduce the sugar content.
- Replace some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey.
Common Variations of Bacon Jam
Spicy Bacon Jam
Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even chopped jalapeños to the recipe for a spicy kick. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes and adds excitement to your charcuterie boards.
Bourbon Bacon Jam
Stir in 2 tablespoons of bourbon during the simmering stage. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a rich, complex flavor that complements the bacon beautifully.
Maple Bacon Jam
Replace part or all of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a sweeter, more breakfast-friendly version of bacon jam. This variation is excellent for pancakes, waffles, and biscuits.
What to Serve with Bacon Jam
Bacon jam is incredibly versatile and works well in countless dishes. Here are some serving ideas:
- Breakfast: Spread on biscuits, pancakes, waffles, or paired with scrambled eggs.
- Lunch: Add to sandwiches, wraps, or gourmet grilled cheese.
- Dinner: Top burgers, steaks, or roasted vegetables.
- Appetizers: Serve as a dip with crackers, crostini, or cheese platters.
- Desserts: Use it sparingly as a garnish for savory-sweet desserts like bacon jam ice cream or glazed doughnuts.
FAQs about Bacon Jam Recipe
What is bacon jam?
Bacon jam is a savory condiment made from a mixture of cooked bacon, onions, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. This versatile spread is slowly simmered to achieve a thick, syrupy consistency, perfect for enhancing the flavor of burgers, sandwiches, and even breakfast dishes.
How long does homemade bacon jam last?
Homemade bacon jam can last up to 4 weeks when stored properly. Ensure it’s kept in an airtight container and refrigerated. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can bacon jam be canned for longer shelf life?
Yes, bacon jam can be canned using proper sterilization and preservation methods to extend its shelf life. However, because it contains meat, it’s crucial to follow USDA guidelines for canning meat products to ensure safety.
Is bacon jam suitable for vegetarians?
Traditional bacon jam is not suitable for vegetarians as it contains bacon, which is pork. However, vegetarian versions can be made using plant-based bacon alternatives that mimic the smoky flavor of real bacon.
What are the best ways to use bacon jam?
Bacon jam is incredibly versatile. Spread it on toast or biscuits, use it as a topping for meats, or stir it into dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. It also makes a delicious addition to cheese boards.
Does bacon jam need to be refrigerated?
Yes, due to its ingredients, bacon jam should be refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Always store it in an airtight container to keep it at its best quality.
Conclusion
Bacon jam is a must-try recipe for any food lover. It combines the smoky flavor of bacon with sweet and tangy undertones, creating a spreadable condiment that can be used in endless ways. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your breakfast, burgers, or charcuterie boards, this homemade bacon jam will impress your family and guests. With a little effort, you’ll have a versatile and mouthwatering treat that’s sure to become a household favorite.
