Bourbon Bacon Jam
It's bacon – in jam form which can be part of your summer cookout condiment tray. Bourbon Bacon Jam is a delightful condiment that brings together the smoky richness of bacon, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the bold flavors of bourbon and coffee. This jam is perfect for elevating burgers, spreading on toast, or pairing with cheese and crackers for a sophisticated appetizer.Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a versatile spread to keep on hand, this jam is guaranteed to impress. With its sweet, savory, and slightly spicy profile, Bourbon Bacon Jam is the ultimate addition to your culinary repertoire.
Equipment
- Large Skillet: Ideal for rendering bacon fat and cooking the jam.
- Mixing Bowl with Strainer: To separate the crispy bacon from the fat.
- Whisk and Measuring Cup: For combining the bourbon sauce ingredients.
- Airtight Container: To store the jam once it’s ready.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs bacon
- 2 sweet onions
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup bourbon
- ⅓ cup black coffee
- 2 tbsps brown sugar
- 2 tsps cayenne
- 2 tsps apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup water
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the bacon and the onions into ¼-inch slices. Set aside separately from each other.
- Prepare a small bowl with a strainer to strain the hot bacon fat.
- Whisk together bourbon, coffee, brown sugar, cayenne, and apple cider vinegar in a pourable measuring cup. Prepare ½ cup of water.
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent from burning. The bacon is done once the fat is rendered and the pan is filled with foam, about 12 to 15 minutes.
- Transfer the bacon to a strainer placed over a bowl. Reserve the bacon and the fat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of bacon fat into the pan. Add onions and sweat over low heat until they turn translucent. Add garlic and continue stirring occasionally. The onions are done when the edges just start to turn brown.
- Increase the heat to high, add 1 tablespoon of bacon fat and all the cooked bacon. Stir for about 30 seconds then add the bourbon mixture to deglaze the pan. Scrape any bits off the bottom of the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add water. Cook the jam to desired consistency, about 3 to 10 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Customizations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to make the jam as mild or spicy as you prefer.
- Bacon Substitutes: For a unique twist, try pancetta or turkey bacon.
- Sweetness Balance: Add more brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter jam.
Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet if it thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions:
- Burgers: Slather it on as a rich topping.
- Toast or Biscuits: Spread for an indulgent breakfast or snack.
- Charcuterie Boards: Pair with sharp cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruits.
- Sandwiches: Use it to elevate grilled cheese or BLTs.
Cooking Tips:
- Stir constantly while caramelizing the onions to prevent burning.
- Let the bourbon mixture bubble away for a few seconds before adding water to intensify the flavors.
Nutrition
Calories: 1341kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 37gFat: 109gSaturated Fat: 36gPolyunsaturated Fat: 18gMonounsaturated Fat: 48gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 1830mgPotassium: 917mgFiber: 3gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 769IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 85mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
