Bacon Jam: The Sweet, Smoky Spread You Didn’t Know You Needed
A Quick, Catchy Intro with a Viral Hook
Ever found yourself thinking, “You know what this toast needs? Bacon.” No? Just me? Well, buckle up, because once you try bacon jam, you’ll be slathering it on everything from burgers to ice cream (okay, maybe not ice cream… or maybe yes?).
Why This Recipe Is Awesome
Bacon jam is the culinary equivalent of a mic drop. It’s sweet, smoky, savory, and just a tad tangy. It’s the kind of condiment that makes people say, “Wait, what is this?!” and then proceed to eat the entire jar. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make. No canning required, just a bit of chopping, stirring, and resisting the urge to eat it straight from the pan.
Ingredients
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Key Substitutions
- No maple syrup? Use honey.
- No coffee? Use water or beef broth.
- Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Tools & Kitchen Gadgets Used
- Large skillet or Dutch oven: For cooking the bacon and simmering the jam.
- Slotted spoon: To remove bacon from the pan.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping bacon and slicing onions.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring.
- Glass jars with lids: For storing the finished jam.
Affiliate links can be added here for each tool.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s browned but not crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
- Sauté the onions: Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook over medium heat until they’re caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: Return the bacon to the pan and add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, brewed coffee, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 30-40 minutes.
- Cool and store: Let the bacon jam cool, then transfer to glass jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Calories & Nutritional Info
- Serving size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: Approximately 50
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients used.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the bacon: You want it browned, not crispy. It’ll cook more during simmering.
- Not caramelizing the onions properly: Patience is key. Don’t rush this step.
- Skipping the simmer: The flavors need time to meld. Don’t cut it short.
- Not stirring enough: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
- Storing improperly: Always refrigerate in airtight containers.
Variations & Customizations
- Spicy Bacon Jam: Add chopped jalapeños or increase red pepper flakes.
- Bourbon Bacon Jam: Replace some of the coffee with bourbon for a boozy twist.
- Vegetarian “Bacon” Jam: Use smoked mushrooms or tempeh as a bacon substitute.
FAQ Section
Q: How long does bacon jam last?
A: Stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, it lasts up to 2 weeks.
Q: Can I freeze bacon jam?
A: Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Q: What can I use bacon jam on?
A: Burgers, sandwiches, crackers, eggs, grilled cheese, and more.
Q: Can I make it without coffee?
A: Yes, substitute with water, broth, or even bourbon for a different flavor.
Q: Is bacon jam shelf-stable?
A: No, due to its ingredients, it must be refrigerated.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon?
A: Yes, but the flavor and fat content will differ.
Q: How do I know when it’s done?
A: The mixture should be thick and jam-like, not runny.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve made your own bacon jam, store-bought condiments will seem… bland. It’s the ultimate flavor booster, the secret weapon in your culinary arsenal. So go ahead, spread it on everything, and bask in the smoky, sweet glory.
