Crostini means "little crusts" in Italian (singular crostino). They are small pieces of toasted bread with a topping and are my go to choice for quick appetizers. Bacon jam is one of my favorite toppings because it is both savory and sweet! The bacon jam pairs nicely with brie (soft cheese) and Bartlett pears. The brie provides the perfect yin to the jam's yang and the pears give a crisp freshness! Also great idea to add your favorite micro-greens as a garnish on top to let them know you fancy! This bacon jam also goes great on burgers!
INGREDIENTS:
16 oz (1lb) of bacon (maple or applewood smoked for additional flavor)
1 tablespoon of minced garlic
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 small yellow onion chopped finely
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1 cup of black coffee medium roast
1/2 cup of maple syrup
1 baguette
1 wheel of Brie
1 Bartlett pear
olive oil for toasting bread
micro-greens or baby arugula
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RECIPE:
Cut or chop bacon into very small pieces. Kitchen scissors worked best for me.
Place the chopped bacon into a pan and fry until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain the grease and set aside. Place bacon on paper towel and set aside.
4. Finely chop 1 onion.
5. Sauté the onions and 1 table spoon of minced garlic in a little bit of the rendered bacon fat.
6. Once the onions are getting golden you can add the chopped fried bacon to the pan.
7. Next add the black coffee, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar and stir.
8. Allow 8-10 minutes to simmer on medium heat and allow some of the water to evaporate. You know it is done once you get a viscous consistency like molasses.
9. Slice your baguette into half inch thick slices. Drizzle olive oil on the bread and add a small slice of brie on top.
10. Toast the bread with brie in the oven or toaster. I usually just set the oven to 350 F and place the bread inside while it is preheating. It's usually nice and toasted by the time the oven reaches 350.
11. Cut the Bartlett pear into thin slices. Place one or two slices on top of the brie. Then add one spoon of bacon jam. Then garnish with your favorite micro-green or baby arugula.
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CONCLUSION:
Bacon jam is a fun and unique topping for appetizers! A nice break from chips and guac or pita bread and hummus. A french baguette is recommended but I'm sure any other bread that can be cut into small bite sized pieces and toasted will work. I prefer pears, but your favorite apple slices can be used instead. Also baby arugula can be added on top to give more color and the slightest punch of pepper taste. The number of aprons we give this recipe is...
8/10
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