Year of Plenty: Traditional Foodways

Traditional Animal Fat For Cooking: Tallow and Lard Explained

In this episode, we explore the tradition of rendering animal fats, focusing on tallow and lard and their unique uses in cooking and beyond. We discuss the role of animal fats in human history, why they fell out of favor, and their modern revival. Plus, Lindey shares her experience with homemade tallow soap, highlighting its skin benefits.

Episode Overview:

  • The differences between tallow and lard, including texture, cooking applications, and smoke points
  • A brief history of animal fats in the human diet and their role in traditional societies
  • How animal fats fell out of favor in the U.S. due to the rise of seed oils and industrial marketing
  • Methods for rendering fat: water rendering vs. dry rendering
  • The nutritional benefits of grass-fed animal fats and the impact of rendering methods on nutrient retention
  • Wild game fats: unique characteristics and handling tips for bear and deer fat
  • Practical uses for rendered tallow beyond cooking, like making tallow soap and skincare products


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