This peach bacon jam is the perfect mix of sweet and salty! With juicy peaches and crispy bacon, it’s a tasty treat that pairs well with sandwiches or cheese boards.
I love spreading this jam on toast for breakfast or adding it to burgers for a gourmet twist. And let’s be real, who can resist bacon? 🥓🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: The star of this jam! I like using thick-cut bacon for its chewiness and flavor. If you’re after a healthier option, turkey bacon can work, but it won’t give the same rich taste.
Onions: Yellow onions are sweet and add a nice depth to the jam. If you prefer milder flavors, go for sweet onions like Vidalia.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are best for this jam, but if they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches. Just make sure to drain them well!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity and balances the sweetness. White vinegar or lemon juice can be substitutes, but they might change the flavor a bit.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you like more heat, feel free to add more! For a milder option, skip this or use a dash of black pepper instead.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Jam Consistency?
Getting the right texture is key to a jam, and here’s how you can make it a success:
- Cook the bacon until crispy, as it helps to flavor the oil used for onions.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking, which allows it to thicken evenly.
- Reducing the heat helps fruits break down and release their natural sugars. You’re aiming for a thick, spreadable texture.
Remember, it will thicken more as it cools, so don’t be afraid to let it cook a bit longer if needed! Enjoy!
How to Make Sweet and Savory Peach Bacon Jam
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) bacon, chopped
- 1 cup yellow onions, finely chopped
- 3 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (about 4-5 medium peaches)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sweet and savory peach bacon jam takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 40 minutes to cook. After cooking, you’ll want to let it cool before storing. Overall, you can whip up this delicious jam in under an hour, plus chilling time if you like it cold!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by placing the chopped bacon in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan and drain it on paper towels. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan for the next steps.
2. Sauté the Onions:
Next, add the finely chopped onions to the reserved bacon fat in the pan. Sauté them over medium heat until they are soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This will add a lovely flavor to your jam!
3. Add Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. It should become fragrant and delicious!
4. Mix in the Peaches and Seasonings:
It’s time to add the diced peaches, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and smoked paprika (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Return the Bacon:
Don’t forget your bacon! Add the cooked bacon back into the pan and give it a good stir to mix it all up.
6. Simmer Until Thickened:
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the mixture cook, stirring occasionally. This will help it thicken up to a jam-like consistency. This should take about 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t stick!
7. Season to Taste:
Once thickened, taste your jam and sprinkle in salt and black pepper as needed to enhance the flavors. Adjust according to your preference!
8. Cool and Store:
Allow the jam to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to sterilized jars or containers, ready for storage.
9. Enjoy!
Store your peach bacon jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It’s perfect on toast, added to burgers, or served alongside cheese on a charcuterie board. Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Jam?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing and adding them to the recipe. Keep in mind that the texture might be a bit different, but the flavor will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like it spicy, try adding more red pepper flakes than the recipe suggests, or even some diced jalapeños for a fresh kick! You can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Can I Make This Jam Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This jam stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making it a great make-ahead option. You can even prepare it in larger batches and give it as gifts in cute jars!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Peach Bacon Jam?
This jam is incredibly versatile! Spread it over toast, use it as a topping for burgers, or pair it with cheese on a charcuterie board. It also makes a fantastic addition to grilled meats for extra flavor!
