If there’s one thing that can elevate any dish, it’s bacon. Now, imagine taking the savory delight of crispy bacon and transforming it into a luscious jam that’s sweet, smoky, and utterly irresistible. Enter bacon jam — a unique culinary creation that every bacon lover needs in their pantry. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, using it as a glaze, or incorporating it into your favorite dishes, this homemade bacon jam is sure to be a hit.
1. **On Toast or Biscuits**
Spread a generous layer of bacon jam on toasted bread or warm buttermilk biscuits for a breakfast treat that’s both savory and sweet. It’s a delightful way to start your day!
2. **With Cheese**
Pair bacon jam with your favorite cheeses for an impressive cheeseboard. It complements goat cheese, brie, and sharp cheddar perfectly, making it a fantastic appetizer for gatherings.
3. **As a Burger Topping**
Take your burgers to the next level by using bacon jam as a topping. It adds a rich, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with beef, turkey, or even veggie burgers.
4. **In Sandwiches**
Spread bacon jam on sandwiches or wraps for an extra punch of flavor. It’s especially good with roasted turkey, ham, or grilled vegetables.
5. **As a Glaze for Meats**
Use bacon jam as a glaze for roasted meats, such as chicken, pork, or even ribs. Brush it on toward the end of cooking for a sticky, caramelized finish.
6. **In Breakfast Dishes**
Stir bacon jam into scrambled eggs or omelets for a decadent breakfast. It also works well mixed into breakfast casseroles or quiches.
7. **On Pizza**
Add dollops of bacon jam to your homemade pizza before baking, or use it as a drizzle after it comes out of the oven. It gives your pizza a gourmet touch!
Bacon Jam
Equipment
- 1 12 inch cast iron or heavy skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound Finally chopped thick-cut bacon
- 1 Onion diced fine
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/2 cup Maple syrup
- 14 cup Brown sugar or molasses
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinager
- 1 Tbsp Spicey brown mustard
- 1/2 tsp Freshly cracked pepper
- cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you would like some heat.
Instructions
- Start bacon in a cold pan over medium heat and cook until bacon is crisp
- Remove bacon to drain and resurve 2 Tbsp of the bacom greese
- Return the 2 Tbsp bacon grease to the pan, lower the heat to medium-low and add the onions. slowly cook the onions stirring often about 15 minutes until brown and slightly caramelized.
- Add the garlic and cook stirring one more minute.
- Add the bacon and the rest of the ingredients to the pan
- let the mixture simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken and take on a jam-like consistency.
- **Blend If Desired:** For a smoother texture, transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer it chunky, you can skip this step.
- Allow the bacon jam to cool before transferring it to an airtight jar. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one month