Easy Bacon Jam Recipe

Everyone fondly remembers with disgust and gratitude the "all things bacon" days of the early 2010s. For one thing, it's now considered normal to stick bacon in any recipe, including desserts like these bacon cookies or even funnel cakes. For another, there is bacon jam — a condiment that's now so mainstream, popular fast food chains like Sonic and Hardee's have added bacon jam-topped hamburgers to its menus. 

Recipe developer Susan Olayinka describes this bacon jam recipe as "sweet, savory, and smoky with a hint of acidity from the vinegar." She explains that the balsamic vinegar "really adds a depth of flavor to the jam, and makes it taste even more delicious." While Olayinka agrees that bacon jam would be "great on top of a burger," she also feels it would be good on grilled cheese, or smothered on bread or crackers. You might also enjoy it with on top of steak, eggs, waffles, or even pizza. 

Besides bacon, you'll need canola oil, 1 red onion, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and water to make this jam. Olayinka explains that you can use white or apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar. Maple syrup or honey can also be used in place of the brown sugar. Olayinka mentions adding optional spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder for some extra heat, or even tossing in chopped fruit like apples or pears.

First, peel and finely dice the onion, and chop the bacon into small pieces.

In a hot skillet with the oil, pan fry the onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the bacon and cook until crispy, but be carful not to burn it. 

Stir the brown sugar, vinegar, and water in with onion and bacon. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and then let it cook for 10 minutes. Once reduced, turn off the stove, and scoop the bacon jam into a jar or container. Olayinka tells us that "This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks."