Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam

Name: Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients: 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 6 strips of bacon, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food

I love how this Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam brings depth and flavor to any dish. It’s my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests or add a gourmet touch to my meals. The process of slowly caramelizing the onions while allowing the bacon to crisp perfectly is nothing short of magical. Every time I make this jam, the rich aroma fills my kitchen, promising a delightful treat. You’ll find it pairs wonderfully with cheeses, burgers, or simply enjoyed on toasted bread. Trust me—you won’t want to miss this savory delight!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:29:27.650Z

When I first tried making Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam, I was blown away by the richness of flavors it creates. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions and smoky bacon is a game-changer. As the onions slowly cook, they become sweet and deep in flavor, which contrasts beautifully with the salty, crispy bacon. I found that taking my time to properly caramelize the onions was key to achieving the best taste.

A tip I’d love to share: consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar towards the end of cooking. It elevates the jam with a hint of tanginess that beautifully rounds out the sweetness while enhancing the overall flavor. Give it a try; I promise you won’t regret it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that'll elevate any dish
Comforting texture that pairs beautifully with so many foods
Easy to make and store; perfect for gifting or gatherings

      

The Art of Caramelization

Mastering the art of caramelizing onions is key to achieving the deep, rich flavor that defines this jam. Cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat, allowing them to soften and release their natural sugars. This process can take up to 45 minutes, so patience is essential. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning, ensuring that they reach a beautiful golden brown before you add the sugar and vinegar.

The addition of bacon fat enhances the caramelization process, imparting a delightful smokiness to the jam. If you find that the onions are browning too quickly, don't hesitate to lower the heat. A little bit of extra time will reward you with onions that are not just tender but luxuriously sweet.

Why Balsamic Vinegar Matters

Balsamic vinegar is crucial in this recipe, as it balances the sweetness of the onions and brown sugar while adding a tangy depth. Use a high-quality balsamic for the best results; you'll notice its complex flavors meld beautifully into the jam, enhancing every bite. If you can't find balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar, but you might want to add a touch more sugar to maintain the sweetness.

When incorporating the vinegar, allow it to reduce properly alongside the sugar. This not only creates a thicker texture but also intensifies the flavors of the jam. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture clings slightly to the back of a spoon.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To ensure the longevity of your caramelized onion and bacon jam, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to two weeks, making it an ideal make-ahead condiment for gatherings. If you find yourself with more jam than you need, consider freezing small portions in ice cube trays for easy future use—simply pop out a cube to elevate a simple burger or cheese plate.

When it comes to serving, the possibilities are vast. Pair this jam with a variety of cheeses, from creamy brie to sharp cheddar, or use it as a delectable topping for grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches. For an elegant touch, spread it on toasted baguette slices for your next appetizer. The savory and sweet dancing together will leave your guests wanting more!

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients listed below to start making your delicious jam!

Ingredients

4 large onions, thinly sliced
6 strips of bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything you need, it's time to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam:

Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the fat in the skillet.

Caramelize the Onions

Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 40-45 minutes.

Add Sugar and Vinegar

Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like.

Mix in Bacon

Stir the crispy bacon into the onion mixture and cook for a few more minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Cool and Store

Remove from heat and let the jam cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Your Caramelized Onion and Bacon Jam is now ready to enjoy! Serve it with your favorite dishes or as a delightful spread.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of thyme or rosemary during the cooking process.

Ingredient Insights

The onions in this recipe serve not just as a primary ingredient but as the canvas on which all the flavors develop. Opt for yellow or sweet onions; they have the ideal balance of sweetness and acidity. Avoid using red onions, as their sharpness can overpower the jam's overall flavor profile.

Bacon serves as the secret weapon in this recipe, contributing depth and umami. You can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option, though the flavor will differ. Keep an eye on the bacon while it cooks, as the crispiness is integral—burned bits can introduce bitterness to your jam.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your jam isn't thickening to your satisfaction, it could be due to not allowing enough simmering time after adding the sugar and vinegar. Continue cooking over low heat, stirring frequently, until you achieve that coveted jam-like consistency. You may also increase the heat slightly, but be cautious to avoid burning.

In case you find the jam too sweet, a splash of lemon juice can counterbalance the sweetness without the need for additional spices. Adjusting the seasoning at the end gives you control over the final taste, so feel free to experiment a bit until it’s just right.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long does this jam last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this jam lasts up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze the jam?

Yes! You can freeze the jam for up to three months. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I use this jam with?

It pairs beautifully with cheese boards, as a burger topping, or simply spread on toast.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Certainly! Simply omit the bacon and use olive oil for flavor, perhaps adding smoked paprika for a smoky taste.