Yes, you read that correctly. Bacon jam, my friends!
I didn't believe it could be true until a coworker of mine went into a blissful state of nostalgia describing his father's famous bacon jam recipe. It is, essentially, bacon slowly cooked down with other flavorful ingredients until it is in a jammy, spreadable state. A southern tradition, bacon jam is often used on breakfast sandwiches as a spread. After I made my first batch, I found I liked it best dolloped on a fresh egg and avocado salad.
My recipe is a combination of sweet and savory flavors. Maple syrup and balsamic vinegar do wonders to this baby, giving it a smooth start with a tangy finish.
Maple Bacon Jam
- 1.5 pounds thick cut, grass-fed fresh bacon
- 1 medium red onion, roughly chopped
- 2 shallots, roughly chopped
- 1/2c. water
- 1/3c. balsamic vinegar
- 1/3c. maple syrup
- 3 tbsp. mustard (I prefer Dijon flavor)
- 3 tbsp. worcestershire sauce
- sea salt and pepper, to taste
Cook the bacon in a deep pan over medium heat until brown and crispy. Add in onion and shallots (keep that fat in there!), and cook until softened. Add in the balsamic, maple syrup, mustard, worcestershire sauce, and s&p. Mix around until thoroughly coated. Add in the 1/2c. water and bring to a boil. Cover, and let simmer for 1-2 hours or until it becomes a syrup-like consistency.
Remove from heat, and let cool for 20 mins. Once cooled, use a hand blender to blend until chunky and spreadable. Pour into sealable jar, and store in refrigerator for up to 1 month.
(Adapted from TheKitchn)
Is that 15 pounds or one point five pounds?
It’s 1.5 pounds. My font makes it a bit hard to read 🙂
Is 1/2c cups?
Hi Kelly, yes it means 1/2 cup.
Hey great recipe!
I’d live to try this out for Christmas presents and I’m just wondering what size containers I would need…How much does this recipe make?
Thanks 🙂
It makes a great holiday gift! I believe this amount made 2 8-oz mason jars full.
Can this be canned i.e. Put in water bath in mason jars?
I’ve never tried that, and I don’t know much about canning cooked meat that needs to be refrigerated. Maybe do a bit more research for trying that out.
Hi Susan,
I have been wondering the same thing. I am going to make this recipe then pressure can it since meat is a major component of this. I can’t wait to try this!
Yes, it can be canned but not a water bath, pressure canning. Use time and pressure for meat. I’m guessing 40 min at 11 lbs pressure but do check that out. I haven’t canned since last fall.
A friend of mine who uses this for her gourmet sandwich lunch wagon adds a dash of bitters and says it gives it an extra punch.
That sounds delish!
What is bitters
It is angostgin bitters and sold either in liquor stores or supermarket. Mainly used for mixed drinks. I do not believe it contains alcohol though.
Has anyone tried canning yet? I too think it would be a great Christmas gift. Have given Carrott Cake Jam, one neighbor can’t wait for new jar.
Haven’t tried canning…yet 🙂
Has anyone figured out if you were to can it. How would you can it, water bath and for how long? Thank you
Have you ever tried pressure canning this? Would love instructions. I think it would be a great twist on a homemade Christmas gift.
No I haven’t. Would be worth a try 🙂
The recipe name indicates Maple but I do not see a measurement for any maple syrup
OOOPS! I suppose if I’d look more closely I would have seen it…Sorry about that!
I was wondering about freezing it after making it. I have small plastic containers that can go in the freezer, I was just curious if the bacon jam would taste as good and/or have the same consistency after being frozen. Anyone try it yet ? Thanks ! 🙂
I don’t know what I’m doing wrong! I’ve tried two different batches and both turned out horrible. So much grease and it all burned within the first 40 minutes of simmering (on low medium heat).
Is this able to be canned for later? If so water bath or pressure can?
Try doing it in a slow cooker the temp is more consistent. If you can, you need to use a pressure canning method. Use the one for meat. I’m going to try it will post and let everyone know.