How to Make Beef Tallow
Render pure beef fat to create homemade beef tallow, perfect for cooking, baking, and skincare, with a rich, savory flavor and multiple uses.
beef tallow[/caption]
Beef tallow Recipe
Beef tallow is a traditional, nutrient-rich fat that has been used for centuries in cooking and skincare. Making beef tallow at home is a rewarding process that allows you to control the quality and purity of the fat. It involves slowly rendering beef fat, typically from suet or other beef trimmings, until the fat melts and separates from the solids. The result is a smooth, golden fat that solidifies at room temperature and can be used for frying, roasting, baking, or even as an ingredient in homemade soaps and lotions.
When rendering beef tallow, it’s essential to start with high-quality beef fat, preferably from grass-fed cattle, to ensure the best flavor and health benefits. The process is straightforward but does require time and patience as the fat slowly melts down.
Quick Tips:
- Use a slow cooker to render tallow evenly without burning.
- Strain the rendered fat through a fine mesh to remove impurities.
- Store beef tallow in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
- 2 lbs beef fat (preferably grass-fed)
- 1/2 tbsp sea salt (optional)
- Prepare the Fat:
Trim any meat or gristle from the beef fat. Cut the fat into small pieces or grind it for faster rendering.
- Render the Fat:
- Place the fat in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker. Add the sea salt if using.
- Set the heat to low and allow the fat to melt slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Strain the Tallow:
Once the fat has fully melted and the solids (cracklings) have separated, strain the liquid fat through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container.
- Cool and Store:
- Let the tallow cool slightly before pouring it into glass jars or other airtight containers.
- Store the tallow in a cool, dark place or refrigerate it for up to a year.
Servings 32
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 130kcal
- Calories from Fat 130kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14g22%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 20mg7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Beef tallow is a highly stable fat, making it ideal for high-heat cooking. Ensure the tallow is fully cooled before sealing and storing it. The cracklings left after straining can be seasoned and enjoyed as a crispy snack.
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