Sometimes, you just need to be with you. I've discovered I can't be completely static - and cooking fulfills my need to complete or produce... something. Tonight was a solo night, with my favorite show, my favorite video game and my favorite pasttime - cooking.
Bacon Jam:
I made a double batch, so it took twice as long - and it was accompanied by the smokiest of delciousness out there - Laphroigh Quarter Cask
1lb of bacon
3 to 4 cloves of garlic
1 medium sized onion
1/4 cup apple cider vineger
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup coffee
Yes - you read that correctly - coffee. I keep leftover and stale beans for this purpose. You can flex maple sugar or burbon into or in place of the brown sugar to create your own spin. Burbon can also be consumed.
Take your bacon and brown it, just the edges. As soon as it shows those signs pull the bacon off of the pan and onto some sort of paper towel - remove the fat while keeping a tablespoon in the pan.
Chop the onions and then heat the one remaining tablespoon of bacon fat over medium heat. Saute the garlic and onions until translucent, then add the brown sugar, the vinegar and the coffee and heat to boiling. Reduce heat and cut the bacon into 1 inch pieces, then add to the mixture. Sip your drink of choice as you have some work and a bit of a wait ahead of you.
Simmer for at least an hour and a half.
It will reduce, and it will be glorious. Can it, mash it, stick it in a stew.... (points if you get that reference), but mostly spread it on everything and ANYTHING.
I've used it in combination with brie, fig preserves and french bread, tonight. It has also been fabulous with brie and arugula on grilled cheese - but please, take your pick, and accompanying drink, and enjoy.
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