Bacon Jam – Sweet, Smoky, and Irresistibly Savory

Bacon jam is a delicious, rich spread that combines the smoky, salty flavor of bacon with the sweetness of caramelized onions, brown sugar, and a hint of tangy vinegar. It’s a condiment that elevates any dish, adding a burst of flavor that’s both sweet and savory. Whether you’re topping burgers, spreading it on a sandwich, or serving it alongside a cheese board, bacon jam brings a gourmet touch to everyday meals. This sweet and smoky spread is simple to make at home, allowing you to customize the flavors to suit your taste.

Why Make Bacon Jam at Home?

Making bacon jam at home is not only easy but also allows you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust the flavors. Store-bought versions can be expensive and often contain preservatives and added sugars. By making it yourself, you can enjoy the freshest ingredients and experiment with different flavor profiles, from spicy to boozy, depending on your preferences.

Bacon jam is incredibly versatile. It pairs perfectly with a wide range of foods, making it a must-have in your kitchen. Spread it on toast for a savory breakfast, mix it into macaroni and cheese for a flavor boost, or use it as a glaze for roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless, and each spoonful adds a complex depth of flavor that enhances any dish.

The Origins of Bacon Jam

Although bacon jam might seem like a modern creation, the concept of preserving meat with sweeteners dates back centuries. In colonial America, meat was often preserved with sugar, molasses, or honey, creating a sweet-savory blend that could be stored for extended periods. Today, bacon jam has evolved into a trendy, gourmet condiment found in upscale restaurants and home kitchens alike. Its popularity has surged in recent years, thanks to its unique flavor and versatility.

Ingredients and Tools:

To make bacon jam, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that come together to create this rich, indulgent spread:

• Ingredients: Bacon, onions, garlic, brown sugar, brewed coffee, apple cider vinegar, and spices.
• Equipment: A large skillet, food processor, and jars for storing.

The key to perfect bacon jam is slowly cooking the bacon until it’s crispy and then simmering it with caramelized onions, garlic, and other flavorings to develop a deep, rich profile. Adding coffee, bourbon, or even maple syrup can take the jam to new heights, providing complexity and depth.

Recipe: Bacon Jam

• Yield: About 2 cups
• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Approximate Nutritional Values per Serving:
  • Calories: 90 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0 g
  • Sugars: 4 g
  • Protein: 3 g

Ingredients:

• 1 pound bacon, chopped into small pieces
• 2 large onions, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup brewed coffee (or substitute with water or bourbon)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Add the diced onions to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft, golden, and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Combine and Simmer: Return the crispy bacon to the skillet. Add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the mixture is thickened and most of the liquid has evaporated.
4. Blend to Desired Consistency: Let the mixture cool slightly, then transfer it to a food processor. Pulse a few times until the jam reaches your desired texture—you can leave it chunky for a more rustic spread or blend it smoother for a finer consistency.
5. Store and Serve: Spoon the bacon jam into clean jars and let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Reheat slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Flavor Variations for Bacon Jam:

• Maple Bacon Jam: Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
• Spicy Bacon Jam: Incorporate a finely chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
• Bourbon Bacon Jam: Replace half of the coffee with bourbon for a deeper, smoky flavor with a boozy undertone.

Creative Uses for Bacon Jam:

• Burger Topping: Elevate your burgers by spreading bacon jam on the bun for a burst of smoky-sweet flavor with each bite.
• Cheese Board: Serve bacon jam alongside cheeses like brie, blue cheese, or sharp cheddar to add a rich, savory element.
• Breakfast Boost: Mix bacon jam into scrambled eggs, use it as a spread on breakfast sandwiches, or add it to pancakes for a savory twist.

Storage and Shelf Life

Bacon jam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it in small portions and reheating it when needed. Always reheat bacon jam gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore its texture.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that bacon is one of the oldest processed meats in history? Dating back to 1500 B.C., bacon was prized by the Chinese, who discovered the art of preserving pork bellies with salt. Today, bacon continues to be a beloved ingredient, evolving from breakfast staple to gourmet addition in dishes like bacon jam.

Health Considerations

While bacon jam is undeniably delicious, it’s also a rich, indulgent treat best enjoyed in moderation. To make it slightly healthier, consider using reduced-sodium bacon and cutting back on the brown sugar. You can also experiment with swapping half the bacon for turkey bacon, which will reduce the overall fat content while still delivering plenty of flavor.