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Sweet & Smoky Pineapple Bacon Jam

This irresistible pineapple bacon jam is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with a hint of smoky spice. Excellent as a gourmet topping for burgers, a delectable spread for crackers and cheese, or a unique addition to any breakfast plate.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Appetizer, Condiment, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 165
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb thick-cut bacon diced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 cups fresh pineapple cored and finely diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup pure, dark amber preferred
  • 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
  • 1/2 tsp chipotle powder or smoked paprika, adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 tsp salt or to taste, bacon is salty

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or heat-proof spatula

Method
 

Cook the Bacon
  1. Place the diced bacon in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
  2. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked bacon and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Set aside. Carefully pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat from the pot.
Sauté Aromatics and Pineapple
  1. Return the pot with the remaining bacon fat to medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Stir in the finely diced pineapple and minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pineapple starts to soften.
Simmer the Jam
  1. Add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, strong brewed coffee, chipotle powder, black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot.
  3. Continue to simmer the jam, stirring frequently, especially towards the end, to prevent sticking. Cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the liquid has significantly reduced, and the jam has thickened to a spreadable consistency. The pineapple and onion should be very tender and caramelized.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or chipotle powder depending on your preference.
  5. Remove the jam from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. The jam will thicken further as it cools.

Notes

Store the pineapple bacon jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. It's excellent warm or cold. Try it on toast, with scrambled eggs, as a topping for grilled chicken or pork, or stirred into cream cheese for an appetizer dip.