This tasty peach bacon jam combines sweet peaches with crispy bacon for a delicious spread. Perfect for toast, burgers, or simply eating with a spoon!
What’s better than bacon? Bacon mixed with fruit! I love slathering this jam on my morning bagel—it adds a fun twist to breakfast. Just be careful not to eat it all in one sitting! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a great texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works too, but the flavor won’t be as rich. For vegetarian or vegan alternatives, consider using coconut bacon for a smoky flair.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen ones if peaches are out of season. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before cooking. Some may also like to mix in a bit of apricot or figs for a different fruit flavor.
Onion & Garlic: Yellow onion brings sweetness, but you can swap with red onion for a sharper taste or use shallots for a milder flavor. You’ll enjoy garlic in this jam, but if you’re avoiding it, leave it out—just note the flavor will change.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice can be used as substitutes. Just adjust the amount to your taste preferences.
How Do You Get the Perfect Consistency for Your Jam?
Cooking the peach jam to the right thickness can be tricky, but it’s key for good texture. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Cook over medium-low heat and stir frequently. This helps prevent sticking and burning.
- Pay attention to the texture; when the mixture reduces and thickens, it’s getting close. You can splash a bit of water if it thickens too much.
- Check for the jam-like lifestyle by placing a spoonful on a plate—if it holds its shape and doesn’t run when tilted, it’s ready!
Letting the jam cool in the fridge will also help it set up perfectly. Enjoy this unique combination of sweet and savory flavors on various dishes!
Easy Peach Bacon Jam
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (about 2 medium peaches)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peach bacon jam takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to cook. So, you can whip this up in about 40 minutes total. Perfect for enjoying freshly made or storing for later use!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain off excess grease. Make sure to leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet—this is where all the flavor is!
2. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add your finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.
3. Add Garlic:
Now, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute or so, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it can turn bitter!
4. Incorporate the Peaches:
Next, stir in the diced peaches, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Cook this mixture over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it as the peaches soften and the mix thickens into a jam-like consistency.
5. Mix in the Bacon:
Once the peaches have cooked down, add the crispy bacon back into the skillet. If you’d like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes now. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing all the wonderful flavors to meld together.
6. Cool and Store:
Remove the skillet from heat and let the jam cool slightly. Then, transfer it to a jar or airtight container. Refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. It can be stored for a couple of weeks!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
This peach bacon jam is versatile! Use it as a spread on crusty bread, a topping for burgers, or even paired with cheese and crackers. You’ll love the sweet and savory blend of flavors!
Enjoy this sweet and savory jam that brings together caramelized peaches and smoky bacon in every bite!
FAQ About Easy Peach Bacon Jam
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery jam. This way, you’ll still capture that delicious peach flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover peach bacon jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken up a bit in the fridge!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Jam?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also add more sugar if you want it sweeter—just taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
What Else Can I Use This Jam For?
This jam is incredibly versatile! Besides spreading it on toast or crackers, you can use it as a topping for burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, or even as a glaze for roasted meats. It’s wonderful served with cheese, too!
