Apple Whiskey Bacon Jam Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar
• 0.25 cup brown sugar
• 0.25 cup maple syrup
• 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
• to taste salt and pepper
• 0.5 cup water
• a pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
2. In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced apples and cook for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
5. Add the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
6. Combine the crispy bacon into the mixture and pour in 1/2 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
7. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. Adjust seasoning, adding red pepper flakes if desired for a bit of heat.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. For a smoother texture, you can pulse the jam in a food processor briefly, or leave it chunky, according to preference.
9. Transfer the jam to sterilized jars and let it cool completely before sealing.