Nothing quite says cozy home vibes like a jar of homemade jam. And if you’re looking to add a unique and flavorful twist to your pantry staples, then this Cranberry Bacon Jam recipe is just what you need. Bursting with a savory-sweet combination that is sure to delight your taste buds, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese boards, or gifting to friends and family. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Cranberry Bacon Jam!
### Cranberry Bacon Jam Recipe
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it becomes crispy and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the remaining bacon fat and cook until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the cranberries to the skillet and cook until they start to burst, releasing their juices and becoming soft, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 15-20 minutes. If it appears too runny, you can cook it for a bit longer.
7. Once the jam has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
8. Carefully transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and pulse a few times until it reaches your desired jam texture—smooth with a few cranberry chunks adds a delightful texture.
9. Allow the Cranberry Bacon Jam to cool completely before transferring it to sterilized jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Indulge in the rich and complex flavors of this Cranberry Bacon Jam on freshly baked bread, as a glaze for roasted meats, or as a delectable addition to your cheese platter. This versatile jam is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a delightful treat for all occasions. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of bacon and cranberries fill your kitchen as you whip up a batch of this irresistible jam!
