3714. CHILI BACON JAM

makes two cups


600 grams (1 1/2 lb) good quality smoked rasher bacon
4 eschallots (brown shallots), thinly sliced
3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried chilli flakes
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 bay leaves
3/4 cup (6 fl oz) whisky (substitute with brandy, or just water if preferred)
2/3 cup (7 fl oz) strong brewed coffee
4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons maple syrup
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper

Cut your bacon rashers into one inch pieces, then fry them in a large pot with a splash of oil until the meat is crisped and the fat has rendered out. Remove with a slotted spoon, then drain on paper towels. Set aside.

Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the pot. Add in your shallots and garlic over medium heat, and cook until the shallots are translucent. Add in the spices, brown sugar, chosen alcohol (if using) and a pinch of salt, cook for 3-4 minutes before adding in your other liquid ingredients: vinegar, coffee and maple syrup. Bring to the boil, then allow the liquid to reduce slightly for about five minutes.

Add in your reserved bacon, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes before stirring and allowing the mixture to evaporate. Cook for a further 30 minutes, or until the mixture is darkened, syrupy and fragrant.

Once at the desired consistency, allow the mixture to cool. Skim any oil off the surface with a spoon, and discard it alongside the bay leaves.

Transfer your cooled mixture to the bowl of a food processor. Process until it reaches the consistency of a chunky jam; you should still be able to see crunchy, crisp little bits of bacon amongst the syrupy, boozy spiced shallots. Taste, and add extra salt or pepper as required.


bacon recipe source: Laura's Mess, August 12, 2012