If you’ve never tried bacon jam, you’re in for a treat. This spicy bacon jam recipe is sticky, smoky, sweet, and just a little bit fiery. It’s the ultimate topping for burgers, toasties, grilled cheese, or even your next cheeseboard. The best part? It takes less than an hour and keeps for up to four weeks in the fridge.
Watch the full step-by-step video recipe here:
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Bacon Jam
- Perfect burger topping – smoky, sweet, and rich
- Quick and easy to make in under 1 hour
- Keeps up to 4 weeks in the fridge
- Great for burgers, toasties, grilled cheese, and cheese boards
Spicy Bacon Jam Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 68 minutes
Servings: Makes about 330g (11.5 oz)
Ingredients
- 300g (10.5 oz) thick-cut bacon, sliced into 2.5cm (1 inch) pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1–2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1–2 red chillies, finely chopped (depending on your heat preference and completely optional)
- 55ml (3 tbsp + 2 tsp) balsamic vinegar
- 55g (¼ cup, packed) brown sugar
Method
- Cook the bacon. Place your skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon in two batches until browned but not overly crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. This will take about 15 minutes.
- Sauté the aromatics. Carefully drain all but about 20ml (1½ tbsp) of bacon fat from the pan. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet. Add the onion, garlic, and chillies, cooking for about 6 minutes until the onions are tender.
- Create the jam. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, scraping up any flavour-packed bits from the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the liquid thickens into a syrupy glaze.
- Serve or store. Enjoy your bacon jam right away, or store it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 4 weeks.
How to Use Bacon Jam
This jam is incredibly versatile. Spread it on burgers, add it to toasties, layer it inside grilled cheese, or serve it alongside a cheese board. You can even stir a spoonful into scrambled eggs or roast veg for a smoky kick.
Storage Tips
Store in a clean, airtight jar in the fridge for up to 4 weeks. When ready to use, reheat gently in a pan or give it a quick blast in the microwave.
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