In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Caramelize Onions:
In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook over medium-low heat until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-30 minutes.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the minced garlic to the pan with the caramelized onions and cook for a minute until fragrant.
Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, brewed coffee, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt.
Simmer:
Add the cooked bacon back to the pan and stir to combine all the ingredients.
Let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes jam-like in consistency.
Blend (Optional):
For a smoother consistency, you can transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse a few times until you reach your desired texture.
Cool and Store:
Allow the bacon jam to cool slightly before transferring it to a jar or airtight container.
Store the bacon jam in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Serve:
Enjoy your homemade bacon jam on burgers, sandwiches, with cheese and crackers, or as a flavorful topping for grilled meats.
This homemade bacon jam is a versatile and delicious condiment that adds a sweet, savory, and smoky flavor to a variety of dishes. It’s a great addition to your pantry for adding a gourmet touch to everyday meals and snacks.
