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Let me share my absolute favorite condiment recipe with you Bacon Jam. I first made it years ago and now my family begs for it constantly. It's this amazing combination of crispy bacon slow cooked onions and just the right balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Once you try it you'll want to put it on everything trust me.
Why You'll Love This
There's something magical that happens when you combine smoky bacon with sweet caramelized onions and that touch of brown sugar. I keep a jar in my fridge at all times it transforms everything from a simple grilled cheese to a gourmet burger. My friends always ask for the recipe after trying it at our gatherings.
What You'll Need
- Bacon: 1 pound thick cut applewood smoked is my favorite.
- Onions: 2 large yellow ones chop them nice and fine.
- Garlic: 3 fresh cloves minced they add such depth.
- Brown Sugar: ½ cup light or dark both work beautifully.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: ¼ cup for that perfect tang.
- Balsamic Vinegar: 2 tablespoons trust me on this one.
- Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon optional but lovely.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to your taste.
Let's Make It Together
- Start With The Bacon
- Cut that bacon into pieces and cook it in a skillet until it's nice and crispy about 10-12 minutes. Save a couple tablespoons of that liquid gold bacon grease.
- Time For Onions
- Add those chopped onions to the bacon grease and let them get all golden and caramelized. Add your garlic at the end just until it's fragrant.
- Add The Sweet
- Sprinkle in that brown sugar let it melt and bubble then add both vinegars. The smell at this point is absolutely incredible.
- Bring It All Together
- Put your bacon back in add the thyme if using and let everything simmer until it gets thick and jammy. Keep stirring occasionally we don't want anything sticking.
- Final Touch
- Season it just right with salt and pepper. I like to taste test it on a little piece of bread to make sure it's perfect.
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What Makes It Special
The magic of bacon jam happens during that slow simmer. Everything melds together the bacon gets even more intense the onions become silky sweet and those vinegars create this perfect tangy balance. It's like a symphony of flavors in every spoonful.
Choose Your Bacon Wisely
I've learned that the bacon makes all the difference. I love getting thick cut from my local butcher applewood smoked gives the best flavor. If you can't find that any good quality thick cut bacon will do just avoid the super peppery kinds they can get bitter.
Keep It Fresh
Store your jam in an airtight jar in the fridge it'll stay good for about a week though it rarely lasts that long in my house. When you want some just warm it up gently add a tiny splash of water if it's gotten too thick. Never leave it out on the counter for long bacon needs to stay cold.
Ways To Use It
Oh let me count the ways! Spread it on grilled cheese sandwiches add a dollop to your burgers stir it into mac and cheese. I love setting it out with cheese and crackers for parties. My daughter even puts it on her scrambled eggs in the morning.
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Not Your Average Spread
Every time I serve this at gatherings people can't quite figure out what makes it so good. That combination of sweet smoky and tangy flavors just works. It's become my signature condiment the one thing everyone expects me to bring to potlucks.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I add a splash of bourbon or throw in some diced jalapeños for heat. Maple syrup instead of brown sugar gives it a breakfast vibe. Don't be afraid to play around with the recipe until you find your perfect version.
My Best Tips
Keep that heat on medium low when you're cooking those onions patience is key here. Stir often and scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Make sure your bacon is really crispy at the start soft bacon won't give you the right texture.
Quick Answers
Friends always ask if they can freeze it and while you can the texture isn't quite the same after thawing. And yes you could use turkey bacon but honestly the real thing makes such a difference. Just remember to keep it refrigerated it's still bacon after all.
Smart Shortcuts
Want to save some time? Chop those onions in your food processor. If your jam gets too thick later just add a splash of water or vinegar. Always taste before you finish sometimes it needs a touch more sugar or vinegar to get that perfect balance.
Pure Kitchen Joy
Making bacon jam has become one of my favorite kitchen activities. There's something so satisfying about transforming simple ingredients into something this spectacular. Once you try it I know you'll be as hooked as I am. It's just that good.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does bacon jam last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, bacon jam can last up to two weeks. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.
- → What can I serve with bacon jam?
Bacon jam is versatile and goes well on burgers, sandwiches, cheese boards, or crackers. It can also be used as a spread for breakfast items like biscuits or toast.
- → Why isn't my bacon jam thickening?
The jam needs to cook until the liquids are absorbed and reduced, about 20 minutes. If it's still thin, continue cooking on medium heat while stirring occasionally.
- → Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut?
While thick-cut bacon is preferred for its meatier texture, regular bacon can work. Just watch it carefully while cooking as it may crisp up faster.
- → Should I serve bacon jam hot or cold?
Bacon jam can be served either warm or at room temperature. Both ways are delicious, so it's really about your personal preference and how you're using it.