This Easy Peach Bacon Jam is the perfect sweet and salty treat! Combining juicy peaches with crispy bacon gives it a yummy twist that makes every bite special.
Honestly, I can’t resist spreading this jam on warm toast! It also tastes great with cheese on crackers. You might end up eating it right out of the jar; I know I do! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: The star of the show! Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works as a substitute, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Peaches: Fresh peaches give the best flavor, but you can use frozen peaches if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess water in the jam.
Onion: I use yellow onions because they have a nice balance of sweetness and flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can switch to sweet onions or even shallots.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick. If you’re out, red wine vinegar or white vinegar can also work, but the flavor will change slightly.
How Do I Get the Perfect Jam Consistency?
Getting the right jam consistency can be tricky, but here’s how to do it. After mixing all the ingredients, bring your jam to a simmer. Stir it often, and allow it to cook down until it thickens.
- Start with medium heat and watch for bubbling.
- Keep it uncovered to let some moisture escape.
- Cooking for 20-25 minutes will help the flavors meld and the peaches soften.
- Remember: it will thicken more as it cools – so don’t worry if it seems a little runny at first!
By following these tips, you’ll create a tasty peach bacon jam that has a perfect spreadable texture! Enjoy it on snacks or as an appetizer with friends and family.
Easy Peach Bacon Jam
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (about 3 large peaches)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peach bacon jam takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and let them drain on paper towels. Don’t toss the bacon fat; you’ll use it to add flavor!
2. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Mix in the Peaches and Seasonings:
Add the diced peaches, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground black pepper, smoked paprika, salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and dried thyme or rosemary (if using). Stir everything together well.
5. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally for about 20-25 minutes, until the jam thickens and the peaches become soft and jam-like.
6. Add the Bacon Back:
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix it into the peach mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend all the delicious flavors.
7. Cool and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and let the jam cool slightly. Keep in mind that it will thicken even more as it cools.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your warm or room temperature peach bacon jam on toasted bread, crackers, or as a topping for cheese and meats. It’s a delightful sweet and savory treat!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Enjoy snacking!
FAQ for Easy Peach Bacon Jam
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Jam?
Absolutely! While peaches are delicious, you can experiment with other fruits like apricots, plums, or even strawberries. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and flavor profiles will change a bit, so you might need to adjust the sugar accordingly.
How Do I Adjust the Heat Level?
If you find the jam too spicy due to the crushed red pepper flakes, you can simply omit them. For a milder kick, consider using only half the amount or substituting with a dash of black pepper instead.
Can I Make This Jam Vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by omitting the bacon and using a smoked olive oil or liquid smoke for that smokiness. Substitute with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms or tempeh to keep the umami flavor intact.
How Long Can I Store the Jam?
Store any leftover peach bacon jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the jam in small portions; it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge before using.
