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Sides
Cherry Bacon Jam with Thyme and Cloves
TOTAL TIME30 mins
SKILL LEVELBeginner
SERVINGS4
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About this RecipeThis sweet and savory spread combines the rich, smoky flavor of Smithfield bacon with the tart sweetness of cherries, all enhanced by notes of thyme and cloves.
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Ingredients
Gather Ingredients from the list below
1 lb. Thick Cut Bacon
 
1 Onion, diced
 
1 jar Cherry preserves
 
1/4 cup Light brown sugar
 
1/2 cup Red wine vinegar
 
1 pinch Ground cloves
 
1/4 tsp. Salt
 
1/2 tsp. Freshly ground black pepper
 
1 1/2 tsps. Fresh thyme leaves
Directions
1.
In a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat, cook the bacon until just crisp, turning as needed.
2.
Remove the bacon from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain and cool.
3.
Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the pan.
4.
Increase the heat to medium and cook the onions for 8–10 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent.
5.
Add the preserves and sugar to the pan and cook over medium heat until the mixture is hot and the sugar has dissolved, stirring occasionally.
6.
Stir in the vinegar, cloves, salt, and pepper, and continue cooking for 8–10 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and become syrupy, stirring occasionally.
7.
While the jam is reducing, finely chop the cooled bacon.
8.
Add the chopped bacon and thyme to the pan and stir to combine.
9.
Continue cooking until the jam reaches your desired consistency.
10.
Let the jam cool, then transfer it to airtight jars and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
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