A rich, sticky, sweet-heat spread made with smoky beef strips, caramelized onions, and brown sugar. This savory jam delivers bold flavor in every spoonful and is perfect for burgers, toast, sandwiches, or cheese boards.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sweet and spicy smoked beef jam is packed with deep, caramelized flavor and just the right balance of sweetness and heat. It’s incredibly versatile and can elevate simple dishes into something gourmet. The slow cooking process creates a thick, glossy texture that spreads beautifully. It’s also easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb thick-cut smoked beef strips, chopped
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brewed coffee
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped smoked beef strips and cook until browned and slightly crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat in the pan.
Add olive oil if needed, then stir in the diced onion. Cook over medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes until soft and caramelized.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, apple cider vinegar, and brewed coffee. Mix well to combine.
Return the cooked smoked beef strips to the pan. Add chili flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and jam-like.
Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. For a smoother texture, pulse a few times in a food processor, leaving some chunks for texture.
Let cool completely before transferring to a jar.
Servings and timing
Servings: Approximately 12 servings (about 2 tablespoons per serving)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: About 50 minutes
Variations
For a smokier flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke.
For extra heat, increase chili flakes or add 1 finely diced fresh chili.
For a tangier version, add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
For a deeper sweetness, substitute part of the brown sugar with date syrup.
For a smoother spread, blend completely until silky.
Storage/Reheating
Store the jam in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short 15–20 second intervals, stirring between each, until loosened and spreadable.
For longer storage, freeze in small airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this jam actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Can I freeze smoked beef jam?
Yes, store it in airtight containers and freeze for up to two months.
How do I know when the jam is ready?
It should be thick, glossy, and most of the liquid should be reduced. It will thicken more as it cools.
Can I use turkey strips instead?
Yes, smoked turkey strips can be used as a lighter alternative.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with burgers, grilled chicken, sandwiches, crackers, and cheese boards.
Is this jam very spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but reducing the sugar may affect the thickness and overall balance of flavors.
Do I need to blend the jam?
Blending is optional. Leaving it chunky adds more texture.
Can I make this without coffee?
Yes, you can substitute the coffee with water or beef broth, though coffee adds depth.
How long does it last in the refrigerator?
It stays fresh for up to one week when stored properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Sweet and spicy smoked beef jam is a bold and flavorful condiment that transforms everyday dishes into something special. With its rich caramelized base and balanced sweet heat, it’s a versatile addition to your kitchen. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this homemade spread is sure to become a favorite.
A rich, sticky, sweet and spicy smoked beef jam made with caramelized onions, brown sugar, and bold seasonings. This savory spread delivers deep smoky flavor and a glossy jam-like texture, perfect for burgers, sandwiches, toast, or cheese boards.
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Ingredients
1 lb thick-cut smoked beef strips, chopped
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brewed coffee
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped smoked beef strips and cook until browned and slightly crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of rendered fat in the pan.
Add olive oil if needed. Stir in diced onion and cook over medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes until soft and caramelized.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, apple cider vinegar, and brewed coffee. Mix well.
Return the cooked beef to the pan. Add chili flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and jam-like.
Remove from heat and cool slightly. Pulse in a food processor for a smoother texture if desired.
Cool completely before transferring to a jar or airtight container.
Notes
The jam thickens further as it cools.
Adjust chili flakes to control heat level.
Blend fully for a smoother spread or leave chunky for texture.
Coffee enhances depth but can be substituted with broth or water.
Tastes even better the next day after flavors develop.
