Bacon grease, also known as bacon fat, is the rendered fat that comes from cooking bacon. Instead of discarding it, many people find creative and practical uses for bacon grease due to its rich flavor. Here are some common ways to use bacon grease:
Cooking: Bacon grease can be used as a flavorful cooking fat for various dishes. It adds a delicious smoky taste to sautéed vegetables, fried eggs, and potatoes, among other foods.
Baking: In certain recipes, especially savory ones, you can substitute butter or oil with bacon grease to enhance the dish's flavor. However, be cautious with the quantity as bacon grease is more potent and can be quite salty.
Seasoning: Add a small amount of bacon grease to soups, stews, or sauces to enhance their taste. It can be a secret ingredient that imparts a subtle smokiness to your dishes.
Popcorn topping: Drizzle melted bacon grease over freshly popped popcorn to create a unique and savory snack.
Flavoring beans: When cooking beans or lentils, a spoonful of bacon grease can add richness and depth to the dish.
Dressings and vinaigrettes: Incorporate a small amount of bacon grease into salad dressings or vinaigrettes for an interesting twist.
Greasing pans: Use bacon grease to grease baking pans or skillet when cooking dishes that would benefit from the bacon flavor.
Seasoning cast iron cookware: Apply a thin layer of bacon grease to cast iron cookware to maintain its seasoning and prevent rusting.
Animal feed supplement: Some people use small amounts of cooled bacon grease as an occasional treat or supplement for pets, like dogs or chickens. However, it's essential to use it sparingly and consult with a veterinarian for guidance.
Remember that bacon grease is high in saturated fats and can be quite caloric, so it's best to use it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Store bacon grease in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks or freeze it for longer-term storage.