Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam

If you’re looking for a delightful condiment that balances sweet and savory, you’ve come to the right place! Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, adding a special touch to everything from sandwiches to cheese platters. The combination of apples and turkey bacon creates a unique flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!

This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make. You’ll find that it elevates your meals while being versatile enough to complement various dishes. Trust me; once you try this jam, it will become your go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can whip up this jam in no time, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet notes from the apples paired with the savory turkey bacon will please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick access whenever you need a tasty topping.
• Versatile Use: Whether on toast, burgers, or cheese boards, this jam brings a burst of flavor to any dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients will be a breeze! Each one contributes to the delicious balance of flavors in your Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam.

For the Jam

• 1 pound thick-cut Turkey Bacon (diced)
• 1 large yellow onion (finely diced, about 1 ½ cups)
• 2 small Fuji apples (peeled, diced, about 2 cups)
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• ½ cup brown sugar (100 g)
• ¼ cup maple syrup (79 g)
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 3 tablespoons barley tea

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Heat: If you’re a fan of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a kick!
• Use Different Fruits: Try pears or peaches instead of apples for a new flavor profile.
• Swap the Protein: You can substitute turkey bacon with chicken sausage or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option.
• Experiment with Sweeteners: If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using honey or agave nectar instead of brown sugar.

How to Make Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the diced turkey bacon until it’s crispy. This step is essential because crispy bacon adds both texture and flavor. While it’s cooking, line a plate with paper towels to absorb excess grease later.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Once your turkey bacon is done, transfer it onto your lined plate and set it aside. In the same pan, leave about 4 tablespoons of grease (it adds flavor!) and carefully remove any excess. Now add the finely diced onion and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook until the onions become translucent—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Sautéing them brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Apples

Time to bring in those lovely Fuji apples! Stir them into the pan and continue cooking until they soften and combine beautifully with the caramelized onions—around 4-5 minutes more. This step creates that wonderful sweet-savory base we love!

Step 4: Mix in Flavorful Ingredients

Add minced garlic along with brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, and your crispy turkey bacon back into the pan. Stir everything together until well mixed. These ingredients create layers of flavor that make this jam truly special.

Step 5: Incorporate Barley Tea

Remove your pan from heat briefly before stirring in the barley tea. This step is crucial as it adds an earthy note that complements all other flavors perfectly. Then return the pan to heat.

Step 6: Simmer Until Thickened

Let your mixture simmer gently for about 10-12 minutes until it thickens up nicely like jam should. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Once thickened, you can serve this delightful Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam warm or cold—it’s delicious either way! If it’s been refrigerated, consider warming it slightly before serving.

Enjoy every bite of this special recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Barley Tea Turkey Bacon Jam

Making this delightful jam is a breeze, and a few simple tips can make your experience even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh apples and onions will enhance the flavor profile of your jam, making it taste brighter and more vibrant.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter jam, feel free to add a bit more brown sugar or maple syrup. Tasting as you go allows you to customize the sweetness to your liking.

• Be patient while cooking: Allowing the onions to caramelize thoroughly adds depth to the flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth the wait!

• Experiment with spices: While chili powder adds a nice kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and complexity in flavor.

• Store properly: This jam stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

How to Serve Apple Barley Tea Turkey Bacon Jam

This Apple Barley Tea Turkey Bacon Jam is versatile and can elevate many meals! Here are some fun ideas on how to present and enjoy it.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cracked black pepper: A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can add a burst of flavor that complements the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The rich creaminess of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of the jam, creating a comforting combination.
• Grilled cheese sandwich: Serve alongside a crispy grilled cheese sandwich for a delightful contrast. The gooey cheese balances out the jam’s sweetness beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots bring an earthy element that complements the flavors in your jam.
• Toasted baguette slices: Use toasted baguette slices as dippers for an elegant appetizer. The crunch adds texture while soaking up all that delicious jam goodness!

Enjoy exploring various ways to serve this unique condiment, and don’t hesitate to get creative!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch and enjoy it over several days. Its sweet and savory flavors only deepen with time, making it an excellent addition to your fridge.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to one week.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the jam in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• It can last up to three months in the freezer.
• When freezing, leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply warm the desired amount in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.
• You can also microwave it in short bursts (15-20 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• If the jam has thickened after refrigeration, add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar to loosen it up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of apples for the Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam?

Absolutely! While Fuji apples add sweetness, you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweet and tart flavors.

How long does Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this tasty jam lasts about one week. If you choose to freeze it, it can be kept for up to three months!

Can I use regular tea instead of barley tea?

Yes, while barley tea adds its unique flavor, you can substitute with another mild-flavored herbal or fruit tea if that’s what you have on hand!

What can I serve with Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam?

This versatile jam pairs well with toasted bread, crackers, or as a topping for grilled meats. It’s also delightful on cheese boards!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! This Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well and enhances its flavor over time!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and flavor to your kitchen! The sweet and savory notes of the Apple barley tea Turkey Bacon Jam are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Enjoy making this delightful condiment, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!