LOOKING for the perfect topping for the Brie at your Boxing Day bash?
You'll find it - provided your guests are meat-eaters - in an unassuming little tub at gourmet food stores: Skillet Bacon Spread.
Actually dubbed Bacon Jam by Seattle-based creator chef Josh Henderson, the condiment had to get a new name before going to market; to be called "jam" it would have to have fruit in it. Instead, this is a luscious mash-up of bacon, onions, balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Henderson first made it to top the burgers at his Seattle food cart, but soon realized he had a runaway hit on his hands. It can go upscale - on scallops with polenta, balsamic and chanterelles, for example; down-home, like on a grilled cheese; or add flavour to a party, on top of, yes, Brie.
Look for Skillet Bacon Spread at the Gourmet Warehouse and Au Petit Chaignol, both on East Hastings in Vancouver.
