Processing Bacon Grease for Future Use

I know it sounds weird, however cleaning bacon grease is a good idea and relatively easy to complete. Cleaning bacon grease helps prolong the life of the grease as well as removes all of the bits, chunks, and moisture from the grease. Bacon grease is a wonderfully flavorful addition to a wide variety of recipes and can truly enhance the depth of your cooking while also minimizing waste. Here’s a friendly guide on how to process and store it properly for future use:

1. Collecting the Grease
   After enjoying a delicious batch of cooked bacon, allow the grease to cool slightly but ensure it doesn’t solidify completely. If necessary, use a metal spatula to gently scrape up any delicious bits stuck to the pan to make the most of your cooking experience.

2. Strain the Grease
   To ensure your bacon grease is completely free of any impurities that could detract from its flavor, carefully strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or a piece of cheesecloth into a clean, dry container. This important step will help extend its shelf life significantly by removing any food particles that could spoil over time. You can purchase a grease strainer to set on your counter. I have THIS ONE.

3. Cleaning the Grease

   I use a technique using water to remove the additional debris out of the grease before storage. Check out my video on how to complete this step. CLICK HERE

4. Choose the Right Storage Container
   Opt for a glass jar or a metal container that comes with a tight-fitting lid. It's best to avoid plastic containers, as the grease can easily retain odors, and they may not withstand prolonged storage without warping.

5. Storing the Grease

   • Refrigeration: For short-term storage, keeping the strained bacon grease in the refrigerator will work well for up to a few months. It will solidify into a nice creamy texture but can be easily spooned out when you need it.

   • Freezing: For those looking to store it for a longer period, freezing the grease in ice cube trays is an excellent method. Once the cubes are frozen solid, you can conveniently transfer them to a zip-top bag, allowing you to grab a single portion whenever you have a craving for that smoky flavor.

   • Canning: This is a potential storage method, however I have not tried it and do not have personal experience to afford a recommendation.

6. Using Bacon Grease
   When you’re ready to incorporate bacon grease into your cooking, simply scoop the amount you need and add it directly to your pan. Bacon grease is not only perfect for sautéing vegetables but also adds remarkable flavor to soups, stews, and even when making homemade cornbread. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start small!

7. Tips for Safe Use and Handling
   Always take a moment to label your containers with the date they were processed so you can keep track of their freshness and ensure you use them in a timely manner. If you ever notice any off-smells or discoloration, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the grease to ensure food safety.

By processing and storing your bacon grease properly, you can continue to enjoy its rich and savory flavor in your cooking while practicing good food preservation habits. Happy cooking, and let the deliciousness continue!