Bacon jam is a savoury, sweet, and slightly smoky condiment made primarily from bacon, onions, sugar, vinegar, and sometimes additional flavourings like garlic, coffee, maple syrup, or spices. It has a rich, spreadable consistency similar to chutney or relish, and it combines the umami depth of bacon with caramelised onions and a tangy, slightly sweet finish.
Origins
Bacon jam is believed to have gained popularity in North America, particularly within gourmet and hipster food circles in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Though it’s hard to pinpoint exactly where it started, many credit artisan food vendors and specialty cafes for its rise. One of the most well-known companies to popularise it commercially was Skillet Street Food, a Seattle-based food truck, which started selling it as their signature product.
Ingredients
The core ingredients typically include:
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Bacon: Thick-cut, smoked bacon is preferred for texture and flavour.
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Onions: Often caramelised to add sweetness and depth.
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Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: For sweetness and balance.
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Vinegar: Usually apple cider or balsamic, to cut through the richness.
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Coffee (optional): Adds bitterness and complexity.
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Spices: Black pepper, chilli flakes, thyme, garlic, etc.
How It's Made
The process usually involves:
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Cooking the Bacon: It’s chopped and cooked until crisp, then removed from the pan.
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Caramelising Onions and Garlic: These are cooked in the bacon fat until soft and golden.
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Deglazing: Vinegar, sugar, coffee, and spices are added to create a glaze that deglazes the pan.
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Simmering: The bacon is returned, and the mixture is simmered until thick, almost like a preserve.
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Blending: Some recipes pulse the mixture to a smoother, jam-like texture, but some leave it chunky.
Uses
Bacon jam is incredibly versatile and can be used:
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On burgers or sandwiches.
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As a spread for crackers, toast, or crostini.
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With cheese boards, especially with sharp cheddar or brie.
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In salads as a dressing enhancer.
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On breakfast items like eggs, pancakes, or waffles.
Storage
It should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is typically good for about 2–4 weeks. Because it contains meat, it must be refrigerated and should not be canned using standard home methods unless pressure-canned to ensure safety.
Popularity
Bacon jam’s appeal comes from its balance of savoury, sweet, tangy, and smoky flavours, which makes it a gourmet twist on the classic love of bacon. It’s now found in many restaurants, food markets, and home kitchens.
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