A Rich, Flavor-Packed Recipe for Fall

There’s something about cooler Wisconsin days that calls for rich, comforting flavors, and this homemade bacon jam delivers just that. Smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, tangy balsamic vinegar, and a hint of heat come together to create a savory spread that’s packed with flavor.

From burgers and sandwiches to charcuterie boards and chicken dishes, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this sweet and savory bacon jam. Make a batch for your next fall gathering, add it to your game day spread, or keep some on hand to give everyday favorites a little something extra.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. bacon
• 4 shallots, minced
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp. red pepper flakes
• ⅔ cup brown sugar
• ⅔ cup balsamic vinegar

Directions

1. Cook the Bacon: Roughly chop the bacon and add it to a preheated pan over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy and cooked through. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon from the pan and set aside. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced shallots and garlic to the reserved bacon fat. Sauté for about 2 minutes, or until slightly translucent and fragrant.
3. Build the Flavor: Add the red pepper flakes, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar to the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the bacon to the pan, reduce the heat, stirring constantly to remove any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Cook Low & Slow: Cook over low heat for approximately 1 to 1½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes thick and syrupy.
5. Blend & Cool: Remove from the heat and transfer the mixture to a food processor. Pulse for a few seconds and transfer the bacon jam to a container and allow it to cool before serving.

From Our Culinary Team at The Ingleside Hotel

Behind every recipe shared from The Ingleside Hotel is a culinary team that loves creating approachable dishes packed with memorable flavor. Whether it’s a seasonal special, a guest favorite, or a recipe worth making at home, we’re excited to share a little inspiration from our kitchen to yours.

We hope this sweet, smoky bacon jam earns a spot at your next gathering or becomes a new favorite to keep on hand.