SMOKED BACON JAM

Our Smoked Bacon Jam recipe a tasty spread for any meal!

 I love introducing you to options with a common food item that you may have never thought of. Bacon, especially the smoked variety, is something that can be easily incorporated into so many recipes as either the star ingredient or a featured player. Be sure to check out my technique for curing and smoking your own bacon which is easy and by far, more delicious than any store-bought bacon.

Most definitely, today’s recipe has bacon in the starring role- Smoked Bacon Jam! I consider this the perfect recipe for an easy appetizer and recommend you keep a jar or two around during the busy holiday period or for those spur-of-the-moment guest pop ins.

Rendering Smoked Bacon

Start with 1-1/2 pounds of smoked bacon, preferably your own smoked bacon, and cut it crosswise into 1-inch pieces. Place the cut smoked bacon pieces into a large skillet placed over a medium-high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders and the bacon is lightly browned (about 20 minutes). With a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked bacon to paper towels and drain. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of fat from the skillet and add 2 medium yellow onions that have been diced small and 3 cloves of garlic that have been peeled and smashed. Cook the onion and garlic until translucent, about 6 minutes. Add ½ cup of cider vinegar, ½ cup packed dark brown sugar, ¼ cup pure maple syrup, and ¾ cup brewed coffee. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring and scraping up the browned bits from the pan. Add the previously cooked smoked bacon and stir to combine.

Slow Cooking Makes It Perfect

Here is the step that ensures a jam-like consistency. Time to transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker and cook on high, uncovered, until the liquid becomes syrupy. This will take about 3-1/2 to 4 hours. If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook it in the oven until the consistency is reached using a temperature of 300°F. Once ready, transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Let it cool, then refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 weeks.

Don’t forget, in addition to making a great appetizer for guests, this is a super hostess or holiday gift. Simply add your favorite bread, baguette, even pancakes, and enjoy!

What’s your favorite recipe featuring homemade smoked bacon? Leave us a comment to opine and subscribe to get all our postings on tips, techniques and recipes. Bringing innovation to wood fired cooking with recipes, techniques and the science behind the fire, smoke, and flavor. That’s SmokinLicious®.