Indulge in the rich, savory goodness of bacon jam, a versatile spread that elevates everything from toast to burgers. This delightful concoction marries the smoky flavor of crispy bacon with the sweetness of onions and brown sugar, resulting in a deliciously addictive topping. Perfect for brunch or as a unique gift, this bacon jam recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to savor every bite!
Ingredients
– 1 pound of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon thyme
– 1/4 cup water
Servings and Cooking Time
This bacon jam recipe yields about 2 cups, serving approximately 8 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while the cooking time is approximately 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 tablespoon):
– Calories: 80
– Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 6g
– Protein: 3g
– Sugar: 4g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon and drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
3. Add chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, stirring until dissolved.
6. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and maple syrup, mixing well.
7. Add the cooked bacon back to the skillet along with black pepper and thyme.
8. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
9. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Once thickened, blend the mixture for a smoother texture if desired, then cool before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter version. Additionally, use honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using smoked tempeh.
Serving and Pairings
Bacon jam is perfect on toasted bread, burgers, or as a dip for crackers. It also complements cheese boards beautifully and can add depth to grilled meats and vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store bacon jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip draining excess grease; it can make the jam too oily.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter.
- Ensure the mixture simmers gently to avoid sticking.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste; add more sugar if desired.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; allow flavors to meld properly.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
- Experiment with spices like smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Consider adding a splash of bourbon for a unique twist.
- Make a double batch and give some as gifts!
FAQs
How long does bacon jam last in the fridge?
Bacon jam can last in the refrigerator for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it sealed to maintain its flavor and freshness.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute for regular bacon, providing a lower-fat option. However, the flavor and texture may differ slightly from traditional bacon jam.
What can I serve with bacon jam?
Bacon jam pairs wonderfully with toasted bread, burgers, cheese platters, and can even enhance the flavor of grilled vegetables or meats.
Is it possible to freeze bacon jam?
Absolutely! Bacon jam can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I adjust the sweetness in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar or maple syrup according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners as well.
Conclusion
Bacon jam is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that can elevate any dish. Its versatility and unique taste make it a favorite among food lovers. Whether enjoyed on toast or as a gourmet burger topping, this bacon jam recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the deliciousness!
Bacon Jam Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound of bacon diced
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon and drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
- Add chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle in the brown sugar, stirring until dissolved.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar and maple syrup, mixing well.
- Add the cooked bacon back to the skillet along with black pepper and thyme.
- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once thickened, blend the mixture for a smoother texture if desired, then cool before serving.
