Bacon Jam is a versatile and delicious condiment that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of caramelized onions and brown sugar. This spread is perfect for adding a unique twist to sandwiches, burgers, or even as a topping for crackers and cheese. Let’s dive into the recipe step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 pound hickory smoked bacon slices, finely chopped
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup fresh brewed dark coffee
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Cook Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the finely chopped bacon until it is crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet and discard the rest.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
- Cook Onions:
- Add the finely diced yellow onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Sprinkle with salt and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add Sugar and Vinegar:
- Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, and ground cumin. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Add Coffee:
- Pour in the freshly brewed dark coffee and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Balsamic Vinegar and Bacon:
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar and the cooked bacon. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Blend and Store
- Blend (Optional):
- For a smoother texture, you can transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse a few times until you reach your desired consistency.
- Store:
- Let the bacon jam cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Serving Suggestions
With Bread and Crackers
- As a Spread:
- Spread the bacon jam on toast, crackers, or crostini for a savory snack.
- With Cheese:
- Pair with your favorite cheeses for a delicious appetizer.
With Burgers and Sandwiches
- On Burgers:
- Add a generous spoonful of bacon jam to your burger for an extra layer of flavor.
- In Sandwiches:
- Spread on sandwiches, especially grilled cheese or turkey sandwiches, for a smoky-sweet twist.
With Breakfast
- With Eggs:
- Serve alongside scrambled or fried eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- On Pancakes:
- Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a sweet and savory combination.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Bacon Fat: Using some of the bacon fat to cook the onions adds extra flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with butter or olive oil.
- Consistency: For a thicker jam, cook the mixture longer to reduce more liquid. For a thinner consistency, add a little more coffee or water.
- Flavor Adjustments: Adjust the sweetness or spiciness to your preference by adding more brown sugar or cayenne pepper.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, bacon jam can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors often improve after a day or two.
Q: How do I reheat bacon jam? A: Reheat bacon jam in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated.
Q: Can I freeze bacon jam? A: Yes, you can freeze bacon jam in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon? A: Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different and you may need to add some oil or butter for cooking the onions.
Q: What other spices can I add? A: Feel free to experiment with other spices like smoked paprika, thyme, or rosemary to customize the flavor to your liking.
Homemade Bacon Jam is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a unique twist to any dish. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, adding it to a burger, or pairing it with cheese, this smoky-sweet jam is sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your family and friends!
