How to Properly Season a Cast Iron Bacon Press for Perfectly Cooked Bacon

A cast iron bacon press is a must-have tool for anyone who loves cooking bacon This heavy pan presses down on bacon to keep it flat as it cooks, preventing the dreaded bacon curl But in order to reap the benefits of a bacon press, you need to season it properly first.

Seasoning creates a natural non-stick coating that not only prevents food from sticking, but also protects the cast iron from damage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about seasoning a new cast iron bacon press.

Below you’ll learn:

• The benefits of using a cast iron bacon press
• Why it’s important to season before first use
• Step-by-step seasoning instructions
• Tips for cooking with your seasoned press
• How to care for it after each use

So let’s get started seasoning your cast iron bacon press! Crispy, evenly cooked bacon awaits.

Why Season a Cast Iron Bacon Press?

Cast iron bacon presses need to be seasoned for two main reasons:

1. To Prevent Rust Cast iron is prone to rust, so seasoning creates a protective coating

2. To Create Non-Stick Surface: Seasoning makes cast iron naturally non-stick.

Without seasoning, your bacon would likely stick to the press and it would eventually rust. By properly seasoning, you prepare the press for cooking and extend its lifespan

Step-By-Step Seasoning Instructions

Seasoning a cast iron bacon press is simple. Here are the basic steps:

Supplies Needed

• Cast iron bacon press
• Vegetable oil
• Paper towels
• Oven

Instructions

1. Wash the press in hot, soapy water and dry thoroughly.

2. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the entire press.

3. Bake in the oven at 300°F for 1 hour.

4. Allow to cool completely.

5. Wipe away any excess oil with a clean paper towel.

That’s all it takes to create a nice, slick seasoning on your bacon press!

Tips for Proper Seasoning

• Use a neutral flavor oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil.

• Make sure to coat the entire press, including the handle and sides.

• If the oil starts to smoke in the oven, turn down the heat.

• One round of seasoning may not be enough—repeat for a thicker seasoning.

• Don’t wash with soap after seasoning. Just wipe clean.

With a well-seasoned bacon press, you’re ready to start cooking!

Cooking with a Seasoned Cast Iron Bacon Press

A seasoned cast iron bacon press makes cooking bacon a breeze. Here are some tips:

• Always preheat your pan before adding bacon.

• Place bacon in a single layer in a cold pan, then put press on top.

• Cook over medium-low, flipping halfway through.

• Remove press once bacon begins crisping to desired doneness.

• Wipe press clean after use and rub on a little oil before storing.

• Avoid cutting bacon directly on the press, as knives can damage seasoning.

• If bacon sticks, the press may need additional seasoning.

With its weight and non-stick surface, a seasoned bacon press results in flat, evenly cooked bacon every time.

Caring for a Seasoned Cast Iron Bacon Press

To maintain your press’s seasoning, adhere to these care guidelines:

• Hand wash only – Never use harsh soaps. Just hot water and a brush.

• Dry thoroughly after each use and rub with oil to prevent rust.

• Re-season occasionally to refresh the non-stick patina.

• Avoid exposure to moisture. Store in a dry place, not under sink.

• Don’t soak for long periods to prevent rusting.

With proper seasoning and care, your cast iron bacon press will last for years. Be sure to follow these tips to get the most out of this handy kitchen tool. Say goodbye to curled bacon and enjoy perfectly pressed, crispy bacon for life! Let us know how seasoning transforms your bacon press.

Frequency of entities from provided sources:

Cast iron: 11
Bacon press: 16
Seasoning: 15
Oil: 5
Rust: 3
Non-stick: 3
Vegetable: 2
Paper towel: 2
Oven: 1
Handle: 1
Sides: 1
Smoke: 1
Soap: 1
Moisture: 1