HOMEMADE BACON KETCHUP

Homemade Bacon Ketchup image

Provided by Brandy Bender

Time 1h15m

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 medium onion, diced into small pieces
10 clove garlic, diced into small pieces
1 - 2 Tbsp olive or vegetable oil
1/2 c brown sugar
1 can(s) whole peeled tomatoes, strained and chopped
4 red bell peppers, roasted, peeled, destemmed and chopped
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 bay leaf
4 sprig(s) fresh thyme, or more to taste
salt and pepper to taste
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
6 + pieces thick bacon

Steps:

1. Saute onion and garlic until tender and caramelized in a tablespoon or two of oil.
2. Add brown sugar to caramelized onions and garlic, and cook a couple of minutes until well integrated. Add tomatoes, roast bell peppers, paprika, bay leaf and fresh thyme.
3. Simmer about 1 hour. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add balsamic vinegar at the end. (This will balance the sugar.)
4. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place bacon strips on a baking sheet in the oven until it is crispy all over. Drain on paper towels, and dice into small pieces; fold into ketchup.
5. Keeps well in a refrigerated container for about three weeks.