Bacon Jam Recipe: Bacon Apple Onion Jam
If you are looking for a delicious bacon jam recipe then you have to try our Bacon Apple Onion Jam. This recipes was inspired by our trip to Yosemite National Park. We dined at 1850 Restaurant and Brewery where I ordered a grilled pork chop with a bacon apple jam on it. It was literally all I could think about, so I new I had to try and recreate it when I got home.
Bacon jam, a savory combination that can be likened to a symphony of flavors, is an innovative culinary creation that has been gaining popularity in recent years. This delectable spread, made by combining crispy bacon with a medley of spices, onions, and sweeteners, offers a tantalizing blend of sweet and salty notes that dance on the taste buds. Bacon jam has become a sought-after condiment for those seeking to elevate their dishes with a touch of uniqueness and creativity.
With its rich and complex flavor profile, bacon jam has found its place not only as a breakfast accompaniment but also as a versatile ingredient in various recipes. The process begins by cooking strips of bacon until they are golden brown and crispy. They are then combined with onions caramelized to perfection, creating a base infused with deep umami flavors. A harmonious blend of brown sugar, maple syrup or honey adds sweetness to balance out the savory elements while balsamic vinegar brings tanginess into the mix. Finally, aromatic spices such as garlic powder and black pepper are added to give the jam an extra layer of depth.
As our taste buds constantly crave new sensations and unconventional combinations, bacon jam presents itself as an exciting option for culinary exploration. Whether slathered onto toasted bread for an indulgent breakfast treat or used as a glaze for roasted meats or vegetables to add complexity to savory dishes – the possibilities are endless. Its unique flavor profile allows it to effortlessly enhance both traditional comfort foods and gourmet creations alike. So why not embark on this flavorful journey and embrace the innovative twist that bacon jam brings to your culinary endeavors?
How to Enjoy Bacon Jam
Bacon Jam may not be something you’ve tried already– even if you’re a serious bacon lover like we are. We typically add bacon to grilled meats for extra flavor. We also like to add bacon fat to recipes for proper grilling and cooking. But bacon jam? That was new to us!
Bacon Jam is great with meats that need a lot of flavoring and salt, such as pork. Pork loin and pork chops are amazing main dish cuts of meat- but they can be less than exciting without some added flavoring. This bacon jam will add enough salt and goodness to have the entire family raving. You can add it to pork prior to cooking or add it as a topping to grilled, broiled or even fried cuts of pork.
If you are grilling chicken, this Bacon Jam recipe can add tons of flavor. Just add some to the top when you are done grilling. Add to larger sized chicken drumsticks or grilled chicken breast. It’s a great way to add flavor to your weeknight main dishes.
As an appetizer, you can add this to the top of a block of cream cheese, for a great center piece for charcuterie or a cheese board. I just started adding savory pepper jelly to cream cheese and it’s amazing! This bacon jam is exactly the same as far as texture. It’s a fun savory spread to try!
Savory Combination
The harmonious melding of smoky bacon, aromatic onions, and tangy vinegar in this bacon jam recipe creates a truly irresistible savory combination. This delectable spread is a bacon lover’s dream, offering a burst of flavors that will leave taste buds tingling with delight. The rich umami notes from the caramelized bacon complement the sweet and tangy undertones of the onions and vinegar, resulting in a complex yet balanced taste profile.
This savory combination not only satisfies the cravings of bacon enthusiasts but also appeals to those seeking innovative culinary experiences. The unconventional use of bacon as an ingredient for jam opens up new possibilities for flavor exploration. It challenges traditional notions by transforming this beloved breakfast staple into a versatile condiment that can elevate various dishes. Whether slathered on toast or used as a glaze for grilled meats, this bacon jam recipe adds depth and complexity to any gastronomic creation.
The marriage of smoky bacon, aromatic onions, and tangy vinegar in this bacon jam recipe creates a tantalizing savory combination that is sure to please even the most discerning palates. With its unique blend of flavors and versatility in culinary applications, it offers an exciting twist on traditional condiments. For those who crave innovation in their gastronomic adventures, this delectable spread is an absolute must-try.
How to Make:
You will need a large skillet or dutch oven for this bacon jam recipe, a heavy pot is important. For best results, ensure all ingredients are room temperature. On a cutting board , dice your onions and bacon separately into 1-inch pieces and set aside. It does not matter which type of bacon you use, so any store-bought bacon should work. I would not use an expensive or uncured cut unless that’s what you specifically buy. It shouldn’t matter in this jam recipe.
In a large skillet, let the bacon cook over low heat, stirring often. Save 1 to 2 tablespoons of rendered fat from the bacon and transfer bacon to a plate, set aside. Sauté your onions for a few minutes and stir often. You can add some water to the bottom of the pan to remove any stuck pieces of bacon and deglaze your pan. Add your apples and cook until those are soft, continuing to stir to keep them from becoming burned. The caramelized onions should be losing their shape and becoming sticky. Again, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of water to keep your mixture from sticking too much.
After your apples are soft, add all the other ingredients for your bacon onion jam to your heavy skillet and heat mixture to a boil. The mixture will be thick due to the maple syrup and brown sugar. This is ok! Finally, you will turn the medium heat down all the way to a low simmer. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon –I prefer these as you can leave them right on the dish! You can add additional salt or black pepper if desired, but be sure to taste the jam first. The savory flavor of the bacon and onion will add to the rest of the jam!
You can put it in a food processor or using an immersion blender if you want a smoother consistency or very small pieces, but we like it more chunky. Some bacon jam recipes we saw online call for balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar. If you want to use either that’s fine.
If you like peppery bacon you might try making a spicy variety of jam with peppered bacon, or adding more black pepper, cayenne pepper or even red pepper flakes.
Slow Cooker Options:
To fully appreciate the artistry behind crafting this delectable spread, it is essential to delve into the intricate cooking process involved in creating a glossy and flavorful bacon-infused concoction. The cooking process begins by preparing the slow cooker, which will be used to slowly cook and infuse flavors into the bacon jam. It is important to choose a slow cooker that can accommodate a sufficient amount of cooked bacon and other ingredients.
Next, after cooking the bacon until it is crispy and browned, it should be removed from the pan and placed on paper towels to drain excess oil. Once cooled, chop the cooked bacon into small pieces using a sharp knife or food processor. This step ensures that every bite of bacon jam contains delicious chunks of smoky goodness.
Afterward, transfer the chopped cooked bacon into the slow cooker along with other ingredients such as onions, garlic, brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, coffee or bourbon (optional), and spices like black pepper and cayenne pepper for an added kick of flavor. These ingredients work together harmoniously to create a balanced taste profile that perfectly complements the savory notes of bacon.
Set your slow cooker on low heat and let it simmer for several hours. This prolonged cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together while intensifying their richness. Stir occasionally during this process to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the mixture.
How to Serve:
You can serve this over meats, as mentioned above. For a breakfast for dinner option, it makes a great topping to a hot biscuit, waffle, or pigs in a blanket. Store in a mason jar or other airtight container and serve on your charcuterie board and flavorful cheeses such as blue cheese, smoked gruyere, and more! This homemade bacon jam may be a new must-have for your breakfast foods and snack trays if you have bacon lovers in the house. Jars of this with some ribbon would make a great gift for the holiday season or for making a gift basket.
Moreover, the serving suggestions for this delectable spread are so diverse and creative that they elevate any dish to extraordinary levels of culinary delight. The bacon jam recipe is not just limited to being a condiment for sandwiches or burgers; it can be used in various other ways to enhance the flavors of different dishes. One innovative way to incorporate this spreadable jam is by pairing it with cheese. The smoky and savory notes of the bacon jam complement creamy cheeses like brie or camembert perfectly, creating a delightful balance of flavors. This combination can be served on crackers or toasted bread as an appetizer, making it a crowd-pleasing choice for any gathering.
Another interesting serving suggestion for bacon jam is using it as a glaze or marinade for meats. Whether it’s grilled chicken breasts, roasted pork tenderloin, or even seared salmon fillets, brushing some bacon jam onto the meat before cooking adds an extra layer of richness and depth. The natural sweetness from caramelized onions in the jam caramelizes further during cooking, creating a beautifully glazed exterior on the meat while infusing it with irresistible smokiness. This unique addition elevates ordinary proteins into extraordinary main courses that will surely impress both friends and family alike.
The serving suggestions for bacon jam reach far beyond its traditional use as a sandwich spread. From pairing it with cheese to using it as a glaze or marinade for meats, there are endless possibilities to explore when incorporating this flavorful ingredient into your culinary creations. By thinking outside the box and experimenting with different combinations, you can transform simple dishes into extraordinary gastronomic experiences that will leave everyone craving more innovation at their next meal.
Creative Variations
Innovative chefs have come up with a multitude of creative variations for this versatile spread. These unique twists on the traditional bacon jam recipe add a burst of flavor and excitement to any dish. Here are three tantalizing variations that will surely evoke an emotional response in your taste buds:
1. Smoky Maple Bacon Jam: This variation takes the classic bacon jam recipe and adds a touch of sweetness with maple syrup. The smokiness of the bacon combined with the rich, caramelized flavors of maple syrup creates a heavenly combination that will leave you craving for more. Spread it on toast or use it as a glaze for grilled meats to elevate your dishes to new heights.
2. Spicy Sriracha Bacon Jam: For those who crave a little heat, this variation is perfect. By adding sriracha sauce to the bacon jam, you get a spicy kick that will awaken your taste buds. The smoky and savory flavors of the bacon complement the fiery heat of sriracha, creating a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible. Use it as a condiment for burgers or sandwiches to add an extra punch of flavor.
3. Savory Herb-infused Bacon Jam: Elevate your bacon jam by infusing it with aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage. The fragrant herbs lend their earthy flavors to the sweet and salty bacon, creating a sophisticated twist on this beloved spread. Serve it alongside cheese and crackers or use it as a topping for roasted vegetables for an elegant appetizer option.
These innovative variations not only showcase the versatility of bacon jam but also provide endless possibilities for culinary exploration. With these creative twists on hand, you can take your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary in no time.
In conclusion, the bacon jam recipe presents a savory combination of flavors that is sure to please the palate. With its rich and smoky taste, this delightful condiment can be enjoyed on a variety of dishes. The ingredients and preparation process are straightforward, making it accessible to both experienced cooks and beginners.
The cooking process involves simmering the ingredients until they reach a thick and sticky consistency, allowing all the flavors to meld together harmoniously. Once prepared, the bacon jam can be served in numerous ways, from spreading it on toast or biscuits to using it as a topping for burgers or sandwiches. Its versatility makes it an excellent addition to any meal.
Furthermore, creative variations can be explored by adding different herbs or spices to customize the flavor profile according to personal preferences. This opens up endless possibilities for experimentation and innovation in the kitchen. Symbolically speaking, just like how each ingredient contributes its unique essence to create something greater than itself in the bacon jam recipe, individuals too have their own distinct qualities that can come together harmoniously to create something extraordinary.
Ultimately, this bacon jam recipe is not only a delicious culinary creation but also a symbol of unity and collaboration. It invites us to embrace diversity and appreciate the contributions of each individual within a collective endeavor. So why not gather around the table with loved ones and savor this flavorful symbol of coming together?
We just loved the salty bacon and jam-like consistency of this spread. I hope you can enjoy it too. If you are ready to try this easy bacon jam recipe print your recipe below, and be sure to stick around for more next level recipes we’ve come up with through our travels!
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Bacon Jam Recipe: Bacon Apple Onion Jam
This recipe was inspired by our latest road trip to California and the small, casual eateries we found on the way. It goes with just about any main dish-- or even breakfast for dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 pound of bacon -cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon of bacon grease
- 2 medium onions diced
- 2 Granny Smith apples diced
- 2/3 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons Worcester sauce
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
1. In a large skillet cook bacon and set aside so it can cool. drain all but 1 Tbsp of bacon grease
2. Add onions and cook over medium-high heat until they are translucent.
3. Add Granny Smith apples and cook for about 7 or 8 minutes or until softish
4. Add all remaining ingredients including the crumbled bacon and heat to a boil
5. Turn down and simmer for about an hour. It will be caramelized and yummy
6. After it cools a little put in a food processor until it gets to your desired consistency or you can leave it chunky and call it rustic!
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 386Total Fat 22gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 58mgSodium 983mgCarbohydrates 26gFiber 1gSugar 22gProtein 20g
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