Boozy Bacon Jam

Makes 1 cup

This is a great accompaniment to a cheese tray.

1 lb bacon
1 T unsalted butter
1 medium onion, chopped 3 T brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 ⁄ 2 tsp chili powder
1 ⁄ 4 tsp ginger
1 ⁄ 2 tsp cinnamon
3 ⁄ 4 C bourbon
3 ⁄ 4 C coffee
2 T apple cider vinegar
1 T white wine vinegar
3 T maple syrup

Cook bacon in a skillet until crisp; transfer bacon to a plate and drain off all but 1 tablespoon of drippings. Add butter, onion, brown sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, 10–15 minutes. Add the garlic, spices, and pepper. Cook for 3–5 minutes. Return bacon to the skillet; add bourbon and cook 3–4 minutes. Add remaining ingredients; simmer on low for 1 hour. Cool for 15 minutes before blending to desired texture in a food processor. Spoon jam into a jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.

Julie publishes Edible Ohio Valley with her family. After 15 years in the world of commercial photography, her lens is now focused on recording the sustainability movement in the Midwest. A graduate of UC’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning, she’s a partner and co-founder of The Fairview Agency, a multidisciplinary creative firm.