Bacon is one of the most loved pieces of meat in my house. Even our dog Clarence salivates when it is cooking. It is a great compliment to so many dishes and can be added to any meal regardless if it is breakfast, lunch or dinner. Bacon is something that we use a lot in our home and I am always trying different things with it. For example, bacon jam. Bacon jam is really just a relish that is slow cooked with onions, vinegar, brown sugar and spices. There are many different version of this recipe that you can find on the internet or even Pinterest, that include altering the cooking time between 2 and 6 hours and adding other ingredients such as a variety of spices, bourbon and even coffee.
I love serving this bacon jam as a topping for hamburgers or on a crostini with a piece of brie and then topped with the bacon jam.

Bacon Jam

Here is what you will need:

• 1 lb good-quality bacon
• 2 medium onion, chopped
• 2-3  garlic cloves, chopped
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup brewed coffee (hot or cold)

How to make the bacon Jam:

• In a large skillet, cook bacon. With a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain.
• Coarsely chop bacon.
• Add onions and garlic, and cook until onions are translucent, about 6 minutes.
• Add balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, maple syrup, and coffee and bring to a boil, stirring and scraping up browned bits from skillet with a wooden spoon, about 2 minutes.
• Add bacon and stir to combine.
• Transfer to a slow cooker and cook on high, uncovered, until liquid is syrupy, 3 – 4 hours.
• Let cool, then refrigerate in airtight containers, up to 4 weeks.

I hope this recipe inspires you to be creative in your kitchen – enjoy!