If you haven't heard of bacon jam, I'm so sorry for even putting the idea in your head. After you've had a taste of this delectable condiment, you'll be ruined for life.
What is Bacon Jam?
Bacon jam is a sweet, smoky, bacon-y thick and hearty condiment and topping that can be used in myriad ways. There are many ways to make bacon jam, but most often you'll see ingredients such as bacon (duh), onions, garlic, some kind of vinegar, brown sugar, maple syrup, and sometimes coffee and apple cider vinegar. I use both of those last ingredients in my recipe as I love the richness the coffee adds to the jam - you can't actually taste the coffee - and the cider vinegar adds a nice acidity.
How Do You Use Bacon Jam?
Let me count the ways! You can spread homemade bacon jam onto burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, add it to omelets, drop in a dollop to braised vegetables, or smear on bagels with some cream cheese. It makes a killer condiment/topping to include on cheese boards or cracker trays. You can even cook with it by mixing it in with your ground beef for an amazing meatloaf. The world is your oyster - go forth and use bacon jam.
What Kind Of Bacon Do I Use?
You have a bit of freedom here as you can alter the type of bacon used to customize the flavor of your jam. Maple and brown sugar bacon will yield a sweeter jam than the smoky versions. I can't recommend anything regarding the use of turkey bacon, as I've only used the real stuff!
How Long Does Bacon Jam Last?
Any leftover jam should be stored in a jar or airtight container in the refrigerator and should not be kept at room temperature. Keep times vary depending on which source you use, but I keep seeing a range of 2-4 weeks when stored properly. You can also freeze it (don't freeze in a glass jar) for longer storage.
This homemade bacon jam is so easy to make at home. I hope you'll consider giving it a try! Enjoy!
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Amazing Homemade Bacon Jam
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: About 1.5 cups 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb uncooked bacon, chopped into ½" - 1" pieces.
- 1 cup yellow sweet onion, finely chopped
- 2 shallots, peeled and finely chopped
- 3-4 drops of liquid smoke, optional (see notes)
- 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup brewed coffee, hot or cold
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet on medium heat, and cook bacon pieces until crispy. Remove the pieces to a double layer of paper towels and set aside to drain.
- Carefully drain out all but about 1 TBS of the bacon grease (save the rest for other uses!)
- Add the onion and shallots to the pan and cook until caramelized, this could take 20 minutes or more. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes more.
- Add the liquid smoke (if using), brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and coffee.
- Return the cooked bacon to the pan and mix everything together.
- Reduce heat to low and allow to cook until the base is thick and and the mixture has taken on a jam-like consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness or smokiness as needed by adding more brown sugar or maple syrup, or a few extra drops of liquid smoke.
- Allow to cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
Depending on the type of bacon you use, you may want to alter the sweetness and/or the smokiness of your jam. If you are using a sweet maple/brown sugar bacon and want some more smoke, add a few drops of liquid smoke. If you want more sweetness, add a bit more brown sugar or maple syrup - I encourage you to taste and adjust so that the jam is perfect for your tastes.
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