Delicious Bacon Jam Burger Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate gourmet comfort food with our Bacon Jam Burger. This recipe combines the savory, smoky taste of crisp bacon with the sweet caramelized flavors of onion jam, all crowned on a juicy grilled burger patty. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, from the melt-in-your-mouth bacon jam to the rich and succulent meat, paired perfectly with a fluffy, lightly toasted brioche bun. Ideal for a cookout or a special weeknight treat, this burger will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Bacon Jam:

• 1 pound bacon, diced
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brewed coffee
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Burger Patties:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Burger Assembly:

• 4 brioche buns, lightly toasted
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Lettuce leaves
• Pickles (optional)
• Mayonnaise

Instructions

Prepare the Bacon Jam:

1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it turns crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain excess fat.
2. Drain most of the bacon fat from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons.
3. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook over medium heat until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 15 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee, and maple syrup to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet, mix well, and simmer the mixture on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to a jam-like consistency.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.

Prepare the Burger Patties:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can make the burgers tough.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a burger patty.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
4. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover to melt.

Assemble the Burgers:

1. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun.
2. Place a lettuce leaf on top of the mayonnaise.
3. Add a tomato slice and then the cheeseburger patty.
4. Spoon a generous amount of bacon jam on top of the patty.
5. Add pickles if desired and cover with the top half of the bun.

Servings

This recipe makes 4 delicious Bacon Jam Burgers. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information per Serving

Tools Needed

• Skillet or frying pan
• Spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Food processor or blender (optional, for a smoother jam)
• Grill or stovetop for cooking the burgers
• Baking sheet (if toasting buns in the oven)
• Whisk (for combining sauces)

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

1. High-Quality Bacon: Use high-quality thick-cut bacon to ensure the jam has a rich, savory flavor.
2. Slow Cooking: Cook the bacon slowly over medium-low heat to render the fat and achieve a crispy texture without burning.
3. Balancing Flavors: Add a touch of vinegar (apple cider or balsamic) and a bit of sugar (brown sugar or maple syrup) to balance the savory and sweet elements of the bacon jam.
4. Homemade Buns: If possible, use or make homemade brioche buns for a buttery, fluffy base that complements the rich flavors of the bacon jam and burger.
5. Cheese Selection: Choose a cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Swiss, or blue cheese, to add a creamy texture to the burger.
6. Caramelized Onions: Consider adding caramelized onions for additional depth of flavor.
7. Blended Jam: For a smoother consistency, blend the bacon jam slightly in a food processor after cooking.
8. Resting Meat: Allow the cooked burgers to rest for a few minutes before assembling to retain juices.

Skill (Difficulty) Level

Intermediate

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

• Bun Assembly: Lightly toast the buns either on the grill or in the oven for added texture and warmth.
• Layering: Start with a layer of leafy greens like arugula or spinach for freshness. Place the burger patty next, followed by the cheese (if using). Spread a generous amount of bacon jam on the top bun.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a side of crispy fries or a fresh coleslaw. Consider a pickle on the side to cut through the richness.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can add a burst of color and freshness.

Storage Conditions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover bacon jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freezing: Bacon jam can be frozen in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
• Burger Patties: If making patties ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Separate patties with parchment paper before freezing.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Rich: This burger provides a substantial amount of protein which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• B Vitamins: Bacon and beef are good sources of B vitamins, which are vital for energy production and neurological function.
• Iron and Zinc: Beef patties offer a good source of iron and zinc, essential for immune function and oxygen transport in the blood.
• Satiety: The fats and proteins in this burger can help with satiety, making you feel full longer.

Recommendations for Vegans

• Vegan Alternatives: Substitute the beef patty with a plant-based burger patty.
• Vegan Bacon Jam: Make a vegan version of the bacon jam using shiitake mushrooms or tempeh, smoked paprika, and similar seasonings.
• Vegan Cheese: Use a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well.
• Vegan Buns: Ensure the buns are free from animal-derived ingredients like eggs or dairy.

Similar Recipes

• BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger
• Caramelized Onion and Bacon Burger
• Blue Cheese and Bacon Burger
• Pulled Pork Burger with Bacon Jam
• Mushroom Swiss Burger with Bacon Jam
• Veggie Burger with Smoky Tomato Jam

By following this guide, your Bacon Jam Burger will not only be delicious but also carefully prepared with attention to detail, health, and presentation. Enjoy!