Bacon jam has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. Its rich, smoky flavor, combined with sweet and spicy notes, makes it an incredibly versatile condiment. Perfect for burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, or even breakfast dishes, this sweet & spicy bacon jam elevates everything it touches. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving a gourmet upgrade to your meal, this recipe is irresistible.
Why Make Bacon Jam?
Bacon jam is more than just a spread—it’s a culinary experience. Unlike regular bacon, bacon jam combines the smokiness of bacon, the sweetness of caramelized onions and brown sugar, and the punch of spices into a spreadable jam that’s packed with flavor.
Why you’ll love it:
- Versatile: Use it on burgers, crostini, grilled cheese, or as a pizza topping.
- Flavor-packed: Sweet, spicy, smoky, and savory all in one bite.
- Make-ahead friendly: Can be stored in the fridge and used for weeks.
- Impressive yet easy: Gourmet taste without complicated steps.
Ingredients
For the Bacon Jam:
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons bourbon or whiskey for depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy but not burnt, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving bacon fat in the pan.
Pro Tip: Save a little bacon fat for extra flavor in the jam.
2. Caramelize the Onions
- Add chopped onions to the bacon fat.
- Cook over medium-low heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and caramelized.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Optional: Add bourbon or whiskey for a richer, deeper flavor.
4. Simmer the Jam
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The mixture should thicken and become jam-like. If too thick, add a splash of water.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Blend (Optional)
- For a smoother texture, transfer the bacon jam to a food processor and pulse a few times.
- For a chunkier, rustic texture, leave as is.
How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Bacon Jam
- Burgers: Spread over a juicy beef, turkey, or veggie burger for an umami-packed upgrade.
- Sandwiches: Layer on grilled cheese, BLTs, or roast beef sandwiches.
- Appetizers: Serve on crostini with goat cheese or cream cheese for a party-ready bite.
- Breakfast: Pair with eggs, pancakes, or waffles for a sweet-and-savory morning twist.
- Pizza: Dollop on top of a freshly baked pizza for a gourmet finish.
Flavor Pairings
- Cheeses: Goat cheese, cheddar, brie, or cream cheese.
- Proteins: Burgers, steak sandwiches, chicken, or tofu for vegetarian adaptations.
- Breads: Toasted baguette slices, brioche buns, or crackers.
- Extras: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for sweetness contrast.
Variations and Enhancements
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat lovers.
- Fruit Twist: Stir in diced figs, apples, or cranberries for sweetness and texture.
- Smoky Depth: Use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to enhance smokiness.
- Bourbon Bacon Jam: Increase bourbon for a boozy, dessert-like flavor.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute bacon with smoky tempeh or coconut bacon for plant-based options.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Jam
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Provides meatiness and better texture for the jam.
- Caramelize Slowly: Don’t rush the onions; slow caramelization brings out natural sweetness.
- Balance Sweet and Spicy: Adjust brown sugar, syrup, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Reheating: Warm gently over low heat or microwave for 30–60 seconds before serving.
Health Considerations
- Bacon jam is calorie-dense due to sugar and bacon fat, so use as a condiment rather than main dish.
- For lighter options, use turkey bacon or reduced-sodium bacon.
- Incorporating vegetables like onions and garlic adds nutritional value.
Why This Recipe Works
- Sweet & Spicy Balance: Combines caramelized sugar and spicy red pepper for multi-dimensional flavor.
- Versatility: Can transform everyday meals into gourmet dishes.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors appeal to a wide range of palates.
Storage and Serving
- Fridge: Store in a clean jar for up to three weeks.
- Freezer: Can be frozen for up to three months in an airtight container.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve at room temperature for optimal flavor.
Fun Serving Ideas
- Bacon Jam Charcuterie: Include in a cheese and meat board for an elevated experience.
- Burger Bar: Set out as a topping at a burger night.
- Party Dip: Mix with cream cheese for a sweet-spicy spread.
- Breakfast Spread: Perfect for bagels, toast, or even on top of avocado toast
