Bourbon Bacon Jam Recipe
This rich and savory Bourbon Bacon Jam combines crisp bacon, sweet caramelized onions, maple syrup, bourbon, and coffee for a flavorful spread perfect on biscuits, burgers, or toast.
32 Servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bacon cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup reserved bacon drippings
- 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
- ½ cup brown sugar packed
- ¼ cup garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1 cup brewed coffee
- ½ cup sherry vinegar
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- ¾ cup ketchup
Instructions
Render the Bacon:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan set over medium-high heat, cook the bacon in batches until it is lightly browned, approximately 10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Carefully reserve ½ cup of the rendered bacon drippings and discard the excess.
Sauté the Onions:
- Add the reserved drippings back into the saucepan and stir in the sliced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened—about 10 minutes. Add the brown sugar and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions become caramelized and sticky.
Incorporate Aromatics:
- Stir in the minced garlic, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 5 more minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and tender.
Deglaze and Simmer:
- Return the cooked bacon to the pan. Add the bourbon, brewed coffee, sherry vinegar, and maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for approximately 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and resembles a jam-like consistency.
Add Ketchup and Final Simmer:
- Stir in the ketchup and cook for an additional 5 minutes. The jam should be cohesive and slightly glossy.
Blend and Store:
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse several times until the jam reaches a spreadable, slightly chunky consistency. Do not over-blend.
- Transfer to sterilized jars or airtight containers. Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
To prepare this Bourbon Bacon Jam gluten-free, ensure the following:
- Use gluten-free bourbon. While most bourbons are distilled and considered gluten-free by distillation standards, some sensitive individuals may prefer certified gluten-free brands.
- Select gluten-free ketchup. Most commercial ketchups are naturally gluten-free, but it is important to verify labeling for added starches or thickeners.
- Double-check vinegar. Sherry vinegar is typically gluten-free, but verify that no malt vinegar or gluten-containing additives have been included.