Bacon Jam
This sweet and savory Bacon Jam recipe is a versatile condiment that makes an excellent addition to a charcuterie tray and so much more. So easy to make and completely irresistible!
Servings: 12
Calories: 217kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick cut bacon
- 5 cups chopped sweet yellow onions (½-inch dice) about 2 to 3 medium onions
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ cup water plus additional as needed
- ⅓ cup strong brewed coffee
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Cut the bacon into ½-inch slices. Place a 14-inch sauté pan or Dutch oven over MEDIUM-HIGH heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring frequently for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until the bacon is crisped but with a few softer pieces remaining. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel lined plate to drain.
- Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings and return the pan to the heat. Add the onions and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until softened but not browned (reduce the heat under the pan a bit if onions are beginning to brown). Reduce the heat to LOW and add the sugar and garlic and continue to cook until the onions have caramelized, about an additional 15 minutes. Add the reserved bacon, 1/2 cup water, coffee, fresh thyme leaves, salt and pepper and increase the heat to medium. Continue to cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. As water cooks off add more in small increments, if needed. Cook until the mixture is the consistency of jam.
- Remove from heat and add the balsamic vinegar Stir well to combine.
- Serve at room temperature or warm for about a minute in the microwave and stir well before serving.
Notes
Bacon Jam is not suitable for canning and must be stored in an airtight container (like a mason jar) in the refrigerator. If stored and chilled properly, your Bacon Jam will stay fresh and delicious for 2 to 3 weeks.
For a longer life, pack your cooled Bacon Jam into straight-shouldered mason jars, leaving about 1-inch of headspace, and store it in your freezer. To safely defrost it, transfer the frozen jam to your refrigerator to thaw completely. I recommend using frozen Bacon Jam within 6 to 7 months for the best quality.
Nutrition
Calories: 217kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 356mg | Potassium: 173mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 22IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1mg