How to Create Savory Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam
If you’re looking for a sweet, savory, and smoky condiment that will take your meals to the next level, caramelized onion and bacon jam might be exactly what you need. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly versatile—you can spread it on toast, add it to burgers, serve it alongside cheese, or even use it as a topping for grilled meats. Best of all, making it at home is surprisingly simple! In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to create this irresistible jam step-by-step.
What Is Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam?
Caramelized onion and bacon jam is a thick spread made from slowly cooked onions, crispy bacon, and a few other ingredients like sugar, vinegar, and spices. As the onions and bacon cook, their flavors deepen, and the sugars in the onions turn golden and sweet. Combined with the smoky richness of bacon, you’re left with a beautifully balanced condiment that tastes amazing with both sweet and savory dishes.
What You’ll Need
Before you dive in, make sure you have the following ingredients and tools handy:
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions: These provide sweetness and depth.
- 8 ounces (225 grams) of bacon: Thick-cut works best for maximum flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of butter: Helps with caramelizing the onions.
- 1/3 cup (60 grams) of brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the jam.
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) of balsamic vinegar: Provides a tangy kick and balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water: Prevents the mixture from sticking and helps the jam cook evenly.
- Optional spices: A pinch of chili flakes for some heat or a dash of thyme for a herby touch.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste.
Tools
- A large skillet or frying pan
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A knife and cutting board
- A small jar or airtight container for storing the jam
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your homemade caramelized onion and bacon jam:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling the onions and slicing them thinly into half-moon shapes. For the bacon, chop it into small pieces about the size of your pinky nail. This will make it easier to cook and blend into the jam.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Stir occasionally and cook until the bacon becomes crispy and golden. Once done, remove the bacon bits with a slotted spoon and set them aside. Leave the bacon fat in the pan—it’s full of flavor and will be perfect for caramelizing the onions.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
Add the butter to the bacon fat in the skillet and let it melt. Then, toss in the sliced onions. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally. This process can take 20–30 minutes, so be patient! As they cook, the onions will soften, shrink, and turn a beautiful golden brown color. This caramelization is what gives the jam its signature sweetness.
Step 4: Add the Bacon Back in
Once the onions are caramelized, add the crispy bacon bits back into the skillet. Stir everything together so the flavors start to combine.
Step 5: Add Sugar, Vinegar, and Water
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the mixture and pour in the balsamic vinegar and water. Stir everything well. Let the jam simmer over low heat for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and the liquid reduce into a thick, jam-like consistency.
Step 6: Season and Customize
Taste your jam and season it with salt and black pepper to your liking. If you’d like to add extra flavor, toss in a pinch of chili flakes for some heat or a dash of dried thyme for an earthy aroma. Stir everything once more.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the jam cool slightly. Transfer it to a clean jar or airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks—though it rarely lasts that long because it’s so delicious!
Serving Ideas
Your caramelized onion and bacon jam is ready to enjoy! Here are some ideas for using it:
– Spread it on toast or crackers: A simple yet delicious snack.
– Top off your burgers: It adds incredible flavor to beef, turkey, or veggie burgers.
– Pair with cheese: Serve it alongside a cheese platter for a fancy appetizer.
– Mix into mashed potatoes: Stir a spoonful into mashed potatoes for a smoky, savory twist.
– Layer it on grilled meats: Perfect for chicken, pork chops, or steak.
Why Make It Yourself?
Store-bought bacon jams can be expensive, and they don’t always have the same homemade charm. Making it yourself allows you to tweak the flavors and create a condiment that’s perfectly tailored to your taste buds. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about cooking a recipe from scratch and sharing your creation with family and friends.
Final Thoughts
Caramelized onion and bacon jam might sound fancy, but it’s actually simple to make! With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can whip up a jar of this sweet, savory goodness and take your meals to the next level. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how versatile and delicious it is. Happy cooking!
