Tomato Bacon Jam: A Bold and Flavorful Spread for Every Meal

Tomato Bacon Jam is a deliciously unique spread that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory flavor of bacon. This jam is perfect for enhancing sandwiches, burgers, or even cheese boards.

By simmering fresh or sundried tomatoes with crispy bacon, onions, and spices in a pot, you can create a rich and flavorful treat that truly stands out.

The combination of brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of cayenne pepper adds depth and flavor, making it a versatile addition to many dishes.

Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or simply enjoy a new topping, Tomato Bacon Jam is sure to please. For more unique ideas, check out: Jalapeño Cheese Chips, Vodka Sauce, and garlic oil infused, Cabbage Wedges.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Tomato bacon jam combines savory flavors that create a delicious spread. The mix of sweet tomatoes, crispy bacon, and a touch of brown sugar makes each bite unforgettable.

This recipe is easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, I can whip it up in about 30 minutes. That’s less time than it takes to order delivery!

Nutritional benefits are another reason to love this jam. It has a good balance of protein from the bacon and essential vitamins from the tomatoes. Enjoying it in moderation means I can savor the flavor while being mindful of my calorie intake.

I appreciate the versatility of tomato bacon jam. It works as a condiment for meats, a topping for burgers, or even as a dip for crusty bread. Its rich texture and taste enhance any dish.

How To Make Perfect Tomato Bacon Jam

To make a delicious Tomato Bacon Jam, I start by gathering my ingredients. Here’s what I need:

• 10 sundried tomatoes (hydrated in hot water)
• 1 pound thick-cut bacon (cut into pieces)
• 2 Roma tomatoes (diced)
• 1 yellow onion (diced, about 1 cup)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

I begin by heating a pan over medium heat and adding the diced bacon. I cook it until the bacon starts to render its fat and becomes crispy.

Next, I add the diced onion and sauté it until softened. The salt goes in now to enhance the flavor.

Then, I mix in the diced tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar, and cayenne pepper.

I reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer. I let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps achieve that rich, jam-like consistency.

As the mixture thickens, I make sure the heat stays low. This allows the flavors to caramelize without burning.

Once it reaches my desired consistency, I let the jam cool down to room temperature. After it cools, I transfer it to a cleaned glass jar for storage. It’s that simple!

I like a chunky jam, but for a smoother consistency, run it through a food processor until it reaches the consistency you prefer.

Key Ingredients And Substitutions

To make Tomato Bacon Jam, I focus on a few key ingredients:

• Bacon: I prefer thick-cut bacon for a rich flavor. Center-cut bacon is a healthier option.
• Tomatoes: I often use fresh Roma or cherry tomatoes. If fresh ones aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes work just fine.
• Onion: A yellow or sweet onion offers a nice balance. I can also use red onions for a sweeter taste.
• Sugar: Brown sugar gives the jam a deep sweetness. I can substitute it with white sugar or maple syrup if needed.
• Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds acidity. Balsamic vinegar can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Spices: I like a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Substitution Ideas

Ingredient	Substitute
Bacon	Center cut or turkey bacon
Fresh tomatoes	Canned diced tomatoes
Yellow onion	White or red onion
Brown sugar	White sugar or maple syrup
Apple cider vinegar	Balsamic vinegar
Cayenne pepper	Crushed red pepper or none

Adjusting these ingredients can help tailor the jam to personal tastes. This recipe is flexible, making it easy to customize based on what I have on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve gathered some common questions about tomato bacon jam to help you understand its uses, storage, and flavor.

How can tomato bacon jam be preserved through canning?

To preserve tomato bacon jam, use a pressure canner. After cooking the jam, let it cool slightly and pour it into sterilized glass jars. Leave some space at the top and seal the jars tightly. Process them in a pressure canner to ensure they are safe for long-term storage.

What are the best pairings for tomato bacon jam when used as a burger topping?

Tomato bacon jam works great as a topping for burgers. It adds a delicious sweet and savory flavor. I enjoy pairing it with creamy brie, blue cheese, or even sliced avocados. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or is a tasty addition to sandwiches.

What is the flavor profile of bacon jam like?

The flavor profile of tomato bacon jam is rich and complex. It has a balance of sweetness from the brown sugar and tang from the apple cider vinegar. The bacon adds a smoky, savory note, while the cayenne pepper gives it a slight kick.

Should bacon jam be refrigerated after it is opened?

Yes, after opening, it’s best to store tomato bacon jam in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container, like a glass jar. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks, though you can freeze it for longer storage.

What are some creative uses for tomato bacon jam in recipes?

There are many ways to use tomato bacon jam. It makes a delicious dip for crackers or toast. I like spreading it on crostini or using it as a topping for biscuits. It can also enhance the flavor of pizza, grilled meats, or even pasta dishes.

How is tomato bacon jam different from traditional fruit jams?

Tomato bacon jam differs from traditional fruit jams in its ingredients and flavor.

Traditional jams are usually sweet and fruity, while tomato bacon jam combines savory elements like bacon and onions with sweetness from brown sugar. This gives it a unique flavor that works well in both sweet and savory dishes.