Bacon Jam

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I like bacon but I don’t love it.  My husband on the other hand loves bacon.  He says that bacon makes everything better and I’ve heard many others agree with him.   So when I saw a savory bacon jam on Cravings of a Lunatic it sounded like something we’d both enjoy.

Of course, I’m a fan of just about all jams so it’s no surprise that I couldn’t wait to make this one.  I wasn’t sure how much it would thicken up, but it ended up the perfect jam like consistency.  The base of the jam is maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar.   It’s an odd combination but added to the salty bacon, it gives it the perfect sweet, salty, and savory flavors.   Also, chili powder it added in to give the jam some spice.

I tasted it once it was finished cooking and I liked it a lot.  As it thickened and cooled I liked it even more.   Let’s just say I had several fabulous spoonfuls before I made myself put the spoon down.   This jam would be incredible on sandwiches, over top of cream cheese with crackers, eat it with a spoon, or slather it on toast.  Whatever you do, make it now!   You’ll thank me for it!

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Bacon Jam

Yield: 3 half pints

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 lb. bacon
• 1 c. shallots, finely chopped
• 1 c. onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 Tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 c. bourbon
• 1/2 c. maple syrup
• 1/4 c. balsamic vinegar
• 1/3 c. brown sugar

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon in a large frying pan in batches. Allow the bacon to crisp to a golden brown. The browner then better as you don't want much fat in the jam.
2. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel lined plate to drain.
3. Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet. Add the shallot and onions and saute for 5 minutes. Add in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Stir in the chili powder, black pepper, and paprika.
5. Carefully add in the bourbon and maple syrup. Bring to a boil and cook for 4-5 minutes.
6. Add in the vinegar and brown sugar, stirring well to combine, and boil for 3 more minutes.
7. Using a sharp knife, cut the bacon into small pieces and add it to the jam. Reduce the heat to medium low and allow it to cook for 15-20 minutes or until the jam is thick and sticky.
8. Transfer the bacon jam to 2 or 3 half pint jars and store in the refrigerator.
9. Whenever you want to use the jam heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to warm it up then enjoy.

Notes

Source: Slightly adapted from Cravings of a Lunatic