Bacon Jam

I first heard about bacon jam from my brother who saw it at a pop up bake shop. However, it was closed by the time he noticed it. Upon hearing this I decided that I should try making it myself...being that it had bacon it seemed right up my alley. Essentially, bacon jam is more of a bacon spread and consists of reduced onions, bacon, and some type of sugar (I used maple syrup). It goes something like this: cook bacon and remove, cook onions until nicely browned, add back bacon and flavorings along with the maple syrup, reduce, and process. I though it turned out pretty well, but next time would probably add something along the lines of bourbon to get more depth of flavor. It seems like it would work well on a breakfast sandwich, burger, or simply on some crostini! 

Guacamole

One of the things that my parents taught me, and I'm extremely grateful for, is an appreciation for guacamole. And I don't mean that cumin/paprika/whatever scented, cayenne pepper spiced stuff nor that ready made guacamole mix that may or may not come in a bag. I mean the pure stuff. Avocados, onion, chile (serrano or jalapeno), cilantro, and salt. Maybe some garlic or a tiny bit of tomato as well. That's it. Nothing more. At least that's what my parents taught me and it has stuck. If I took one thing away from my child hood it would be this mixture of ingredients with no exact measurements and I am eternally grateful for it (oh, and so my parents aren't horrified that the only thing I learned from them is how to make guacamole I did gain a appreciation for thoughtful gift giving!).

Guacamole is very easy to make and quick (unless you're my dad who spends 40 minutes chopping, which may or may not be due to the TV in kitchen). But, somehow it gets butchered often with the addition of odd ingredients and the lack of proper salt/acid seasoning. I say let the avocados speak for themselves with some enhancement from salt and acid and a little background heat. Ironically, I loved our families guacamole, but refused to eat a slice of avocado on its own. Oh well. Things change.

It's great because guacamole has a variety of uses such as a side dish with some chips or a condiment for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, sandwiches, and so on. Either way I say keep it pure and delicious! I'm using mine for some pulled pork...we'll see how well they marry.

One of the things I love about making
 guacamole: How great the ingredients look!