Sweet, savory, and irresistible, Tomato Bacon Jam packs a punch of flavor that elevates any dish.
Some recipes feel like magic in a jar, and tomato bacon jam is one of them. I first discovered it at a farmers’ market, where a tiny sample on a cracker instantly won me over. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors was unforgettable, and I couldn’t wait to create my own version at home. If you’ve ever tasted this jam, you know exactly what I mean. If not, it’s time to uncover the sweet, savory goodness packed into every bite.
As I was perfecting this recipe, I came up with a few tweaks to make it just right for me. You can do the same! The beauty of this recipe is how customizable it is, ensuring it turns out just right for your palate. Although the recipe calls for thick bacon, you can use regular bacon if needed. When I can, I like to get slabs of bacon from the meat counter rather than using pre-packaged bacon. You can also easily alter the amount of brown sugar or red pepper flakes to make this tomato bacon jam as sweet or as spicy as you want it to be.
I also recommend chopping your ingredients into similar sizes to get the best consistency and appearance of the finished jam. And when cooking the jam, I occasionally stir it to mix the ingredients, mashing the tomatoes to help them break down and spread their juices.
Is Tomato Bacon Jam Healthy?
If you’re thinking that this tomato bacon jam does not seem particularly healthy, you are right. I’m not going to sugar-coat it for you. Not only does the bacon contain a lot of fat, but you also cook the onions in the fat. Here’s the thing: even healthy foods are not always ideal in large quantities. When used in moderation, this jam can impart flavor to your meals or snacks without throwing a healthy lifestyle out of whack. On a positive note, you do get a small amount of nutrients from the tomatoes and onions.
Endless Ways To Savor This Jam
Tomato bacon jam is a versatile condiment you can use in many ways. One of my favorite uses is on a charcuterie board. Assemble an array of tasty meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, crackers, pickles, mustard, and, of course, your jam. Don’t be surprised when that is the first item to disappear. Luckily, the recipe makes plenty, so be prepared with the refills.
This jam is also an excellent spread for sandwiches, burgers, crackers, and toast. You can use it in place of mustard for your favorite chewy pretzels. Personally, I think it makes an excellent topping for baked potatoes or French fries. Let your imagination run wild, and enjoy.
INGREDIENTS
- 8 ounces thick-cut smoked bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare
Cook bacon, sauté onions.
Combine
Add tomatoes and seasonings, simmer.
Thicken
Cook until jam-like consistency.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
This tomato jam is an ideal make-ahead condiment. When refrigerated in airtight containers, it lasts for 2-4 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, defrosting it in the fridge overnight before use. It’s best to freeze the jam in small glass jars. Always cool the jam to room temperature before refrigerating.
Using turkey bacon is possible, but you miss out on the fat content found in regular bacon. I recommend cooking the chopped turkey bacon in a tablespoon or two of olive or avocado oil. That way, the oil will absorb the turkey bacon flavor for when you cook the onions.
Minced garlic, cayenne pepper, smoked or sweet paprika, dry mustard, or Dijon mustard can be added, and maple syrup can be used instead of brown sugar. A splash of balsamic vinegar can be added near the end of cooking. A sweet Vidalia onion can be substituted for the yellow onion. Any tomatoes you like, including a mixture of various types, such as cherry, plum, grape, Roma, or heirloom, will work in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato bacon jam is an ideal spread for some of your favorite burgers and sandwiches. Add it to recipes such as Turkey Burgers In The Oven, Avocado Grilled Cheese Sandwich, and this Meatloaf Sandwich to take their flavors to new heights. Add a dollop to Grilled Jalapeño Poppers or spread some on Grilled Zucchini for a tasty treat.
This jam is also an excellent accompaniment to roasted or grilled meats and fish, such as Grilled Cod In Foil, Roasted Half Chicken, and Crispy Pork Cutlets. Enjoy!
Tomato Bacon Jam
Ingredients
- 8 ounces thick-cut smoked bacon chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes chopped
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
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In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove bacon and set on paper towels to drain.
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In the same skillet, using the remaining bacon grease, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
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Return the bacon to the skillet and add chopped tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
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Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook until the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency, about 50 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
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Let cool, and then transfer to a jar or other airtight container. Store in the fridge.
Nutrition
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