Discarding the grease left behind after frying bacon is a big mistake, as its umami savoriness, meaty taste, and rich smokiness can add depth and complexity to whatever it touches.

From entrées and sides to snacks and desserts, bacon grease can enrich anything. Even your popcorn will taste heavenly if you pop the kernels in bacon fat instead of vegetable oil.

You can cook canned green beans in bacon fat, add it to salad dressings, or fry veggies in it. Try it out with greens like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, collards, and kale to start.

Bacon fat pairs well with almost any food, be it a marinade, a soup, or scrambled eggs. You can also add it to a dessert, like ice cream or cookies, for a sweet and salty treat.