There are kitchens without a bacon press or grill press! I know that is hard to believe, but pardon me while I share an experience that still makes me smile.
I had popped in to visit a neighbor on a Saturday morning. I caught her in the kitchen frying bacon, but with a big frown on her face. Her six year old son was jumping up and down refusing to eat his bacon because the "ends" were not brown. I noticed that the bacon on his plate was curled on the ends and wavy in the middle. Personally, I saw nothing about it that would prevent me from eating it but I'm not a six year old who believes bacon must be flat and brown from one end to the other.
The youngster decided on sausage. The mother was totally perplexed that her son refused to eat anything fried that was not browned evenly. Look, it happens.
Needless to say, a kitchen without a bacon press or grill press is not complete. But, I have realized that this small and useful utensil is often overlooked when furnishing the kitchen. There is little need to explain how one is used, but for the sake of it I will. Lay the bacon on the grill or in the skillet and place the bacon press on top of the bacon strips as they begin to cook. It also works well with many meats that have a tendency to curl.
I also use mine on hamburgers when I am frying them stove top, about half way through the cooking process. Just don't press down!
The selections below are cast iron --- another of my favorite cooking materials. The cast iron is heavy enough to do the job without smashing the food being fried.
Norpro Cast Iron Bacon Grill Press
This is a simple style that we really enjoy in our kitchens. It weighs only 4 ounces and is wide enough to cover a couple of pieces of bacon --- approximately 4" and is about 6-7" long.
It is made of cast iron and will need to be seasoned before use. We love the wood handle that makes it safe to lift while cooking without wearing a glove.
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Norpro Cast Iron Pig Bacon Press
Okay, we included this one because it is ideal for cooking and makes a great gift for bridal showers or house warmings.
This press also will need to be seasoned prior to use.
There are many different styles available. Some that are seasoned, some that are not. By clicking on either of our selections you will be able to search other styles.
For those looking for special kitchen gifts, creating a basket filled with a few unique gadgets is ideal. Many cooks may not be aware of some of our selections. Others may not be willing to shop for them. Give a gift that the cook will enjoy for years to come.