Savory Maple Bacon Jam
Indulge in the rich, smoky, and sweet flavors of this Savory Maple Bacon Jam, inspired by the food truck culture showcased on Food Network's Eat St. This delightful spread elevates any dish, transforming simple burgers or grilled cheese sandwiches into gourmet creations. The combination of freshly sautéed garlic and onions with crispy bacon simmered in brewed coffee, apple cider vinegar, and pure maple syrup creates an exquisite balance of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether served on artisan bread as an appetizer or as a topping for your favorite snacks, this bacon jam is sure to impress at your next gathering!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
smoked bacon
1 lb (sliced into small pieces (or use regular bacon and add liquid smoke))
garlic cloves
4 (chopped)
brown onion
1 medium (sliced)
brown sugar
3 tablespoons
Tabasco sauce
to taste ((optional))
brewed coffee
1 cup
apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup
maple syrup
1/4 cup
black pepper
to taste
water
extra
Instructions
1
In a non-stick pan, cook the bacon in batches over medium heat until lightly browned and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2
In the same pan, sauté the chopped garlic and sliced onion in the rendered bacon fat until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3
Transfer the cooked bacon, garlic, and onion into a heavy-bottomed cast iron pot.
4
Add the brown sugar, brewed coffee, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and a dash of black pepper to the pot. If using Tabasco sauce, add it according to your heat preference.
5
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Continue to simmer for approximately 2 hours, stirring occasionally, and add 1/4 cup of water every 25-30 minutes as needed to prevent sticking.
6
Once the mixture has thickened and the flavors have melded, allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes.
7
Transfer the cooled mixture to a food processor and pulse for 2-3 seconds for a chunky texture, or blend longer for a smoother consistency.
8
This delightful bacon jam can be served warm or at room temperature. Spread it generously on burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, or crusty bread, and let your creativity flow!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Maple Bacon Jam?
Savory Maple Bacon Jam is a rich, smoky, and sweet spread made from simmered bacon, onions, coffee, and maple syrup, often used as a gourmet topping.
What kind of bacon is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of smoked bacon sliced into small pieces for the best flavor profile.
Can I use regular bacon if I don't have smoked bacon?
Yes, you can use regular bacon; just add a bit of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky essence.
How should the onions be prepared?
One medium brown onion should be sliced and then sauteed in rendered bacon fat until translucent.
What role does coffee play in bacon jam?
Brewed coffee adds a deep, savory complexity and richness that balances the sweetness of the syrup.
How much maple syrup is required?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup to provide its signature sweet flavor.
Is the Tabasco sauce mandatory?
No, Tabasco sauce is optional and should be added according to your personal heat preference.
What type of vinegar is used?
1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar is used to add acidity and balance the rich fats.
How do I prepare the garlic for this jam?
You should use 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped, and saute them with the onions.
What is the total simmering time for the jam?
The mixture should simmer over low heat for approximately 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Why do I need to add water during the simmering process?
Adding 1/4 cup of water every 25-30 minutes prevents the mixture from sticking to the pot as it thickens.
What kind of pot is best for cooking bacon jam?
A heavy-bottomed cast iron pot is recommended for even heat distribution during the long simmer.
How do I achieve a chunky texture?
To get a chunky texture, pulse the cooled mixture in a food processor for only 2-3 seconds.
Can I make the bacon jam smooth?
Yes, simply blend the mixture longer in the food processor if you prefer a smoother consistency.
How long should the jam cool before processing?
Allow the mixture to cool for 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a food processor.
What are the best serving suggestions for bacon jam?
It is delicious on burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, artisan bread, or as a topping for snacks.
Is bacon jam served hot or cold?
This bacon jam can be served either warm or at room temperature depending on your preference.
Does the recipe use brown sugar?
Yes, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar are added to provide a deep, caramelized sweetness.
Can I substitute the brown onion?
While brown onions are standard, you could use yellow onions for a similar flavor profile.
What inspiration is behind this recipe?
The recipe is inspired by food truck culture as seen on Food Network's Eat St.
Should I cook the bacon until it is crispy?
Yes, cook the bacon in batches until it is lightly browned and crispy before combining with other ingredients.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe uses 10 main ingredients including bacon, aromatics, liquids, and seasonings.
What seasoning is used?
Black pepper is used to taste to add a subtle spice to the jam.
Is there a specific way to saute the garlic?
The garlic should be sauteed in the rendered bacon fat along with the onions until fragrant.
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed?
Brewed coffee is recommended, but you could use a strong instant coffee if necessary.
Is this recipe considered an appetizer?
Yes, when served on crusty bread, it makes an excellent gourmet appetizer for gatherings.
How do I prevent the jam from burning?
Simmer over low heat and stir occasionally while adding water as needed to prevent sticking.
What makes the jam savory?
The combination of smoked bacon, garlic, onions, and black pepper creates the savory foundation.
Is this a good gift idea?
Yes, homemade bacon jam in a decorative jar makes a wonderful gourmet gift.
What is the primary fat source in the recipe?
The primary fat source is the rendered fat from the cooked smoked bacon.