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Savory Bourbon Bacon Jam Recipe for Easy Fathers Day Burgers

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A smoky, sweet, and slightly boozy bacon jam that transforms ordinary burgers into a memorable flavor experience. Perfect for Father’s Day or any backyard cookout.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound thick-cut bacon (about 450g)
  • 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (60ml)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (50g)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (30ml)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (15ml), optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1/4 cup water (60ml)

Instructions

  1. Chop the bacon into 1/2-inch pieces. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bacon. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy but not burnt. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon bits to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  2. Add the chopped onions to the bacon fat, reduce heat to medium-low. Cook slowly for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft, deep golden brown, and sweet.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not burned.
  4. Pour in the bourbon, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to loosen browned bits. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and mellow the alcohol’s sharpness.
  5. Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), apple cider vinegar, and water. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a sticky jam consistency.
  6. Return the cooked bacon bits to the pan and stir well to incorporate. Cook for another 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Let the jam cool to room temperature before transferring to a clean jar. Refrigerate for up to two weeks.

Notes

Take your time caramelizing the onions to avoid bitterness. Use thick-cut bacon for better texture. If avoiding alcohol, omit bourbon and add extra apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Warm gently before serving to restore spreadable texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon bacon jam, bacon jam recipe, savory bacon spread, Father's Day burger topping, smoky bacon jam, bacon condiment, bourbon recipes

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/savory-bourbon-bacon-jam-recipe-for-easy-fathers-day-burgers/