Elevate your condiment game with this High Protein Savory Bacon Jam, a unique blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors designed to add a gourmet touch to any meal. Packed with tender green or brown lentils for a protein boost, this recipe combines crispy bacon with rich coffee, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar for a deliciously complex finish. The addition of smoked paprika and black pepper enhances the smoky depth, while caramelized onions and garlic lend a comforting, aromatic base. Perfect as a spread for sandwiches, a topping for burgers, or a versatile dip, this protein-rich bacon jam is the ultimate multitasking condiment. Ready in just over an hour, with tips to puree for a smooth texture, it's ideal for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Whether you're hosting guests or elevating everyday dishes, this bacon jam will steal the spotlight!
Start by cooking the lentils. Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside.
While the lentils are cooking, cut the bacon into small pieces (around 1-inch in size). In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat if needed. Finely dice the onions and garlic. Add the onions to the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent, about 10 minutes.
Add the garlic to the onions and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the brown sugar, coffee, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Bring this mixture to a simmer.
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet, along with the cooked lentils, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency.
Once cooked, let the mixture cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the jam to your desired texture, or transfer to a food processor for a smoother finish.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Allow the bacon jam to cool completely and transfer to sterilized jars for storage.
Store the bacon jam in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
Calories |
1392 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.9 g | 81% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.1 g | 80% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 95 mg | 32% | |
| Sodium | 1663 mg | 72% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 155.7 g | 57% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.5 g | 73% | |
| Total Sugars | 101.6 g | ||
| Protein | 54.0 g | 108% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 184 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 9.2 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 1766 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.