Smoked pork lard: versatile & healthy cooking fat

If you haven't heard, smoked pork lard is making a comeback in kitchens around the world. This long-vilified fat is now being recognized for its versatility, stability, and health benefits. In fact, it has been named one of the top ten healthiest foods in the world. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using smoked pork lard in your cooking and why it is a healthier alternative to other fats.

What is Smoked Pork Lard?

Smoked pork lard is made from 100% animal fat, usually sourced from pork. It is rendered through a slow cooking process, where the fatty parts of the pig, such as the belly, butt, and shoulder, are cooked until the fat is melted. The fat is then separated from the meat and chilled to solidify into a smooth, opaque substance.

Benefits of Smoked Pork Lard

High Monounsaturated Fat Content: Smoked pork lard is composed of around 50% monounsaturated fat, which is a heart-healthy fat also found in olive oil. Unlike olive oil, however, smoked pork lard has a high smoking point, making it safe to use for roasting at high temperatures without breaking down or oxidizing. This is important because the oxidation process in other oils, such as olive oil, can release harmful free radicals that have been associated with cancer and inflammation.

Odorless and Flavorless: When properly rendered, smoked pork lard is odorless and colorless, which means it does not impart any extra flavor to your dishes. This makes it a favorite among bakers for creating flaky pie crusts and can also be used for roasting or frying to achieve crispy vegetables or meat.

Healthier than Butter: Smoked pork lard contains more monounsaturated fat than butter and has nearly 2x the oleic acid, an essential fatty acid that helps lower bad cholesterol levels. It also has less saturated fat than butter, making it a healthier choice for those concerned about saturated fat consumption. It is important to note that our bodies need saturated fat for cellular function, so it is recommended to be selective in sourcing saturated fat.

Rich in Vitamins and Essential Nutrients: Smoked pork lard is an excellent source of B vitamins, choline, and vitamin D. Pasture-raised lard, in particular, has incredibly high levels of vitamin D because the pigs are raised in the sunshine and fed a natural diet. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in cellular function and maintaining healthy vitamin D levels is essential for overall health.

Shelf Stable and Economical: When rendered properly, smoked pork lard is shelf stable and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or frozen for up to a year. It is also an economical choice compared to other healthy fats like butter or coconut oil.

How to Make Smoked Pork Lard

Rendering your own smoked pork lard is a simple process that requires patience. Here's how you can make it at home:

Ingredients:

• Cold smoked pork fat or leaf lard
• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. Cut the smoked pork fat or leaf lard into small pieces.
2. Add ¼ cup of water to a slow cooker or a large pot.
3. Add the fat to the slow cooker or pot.
4. Cook on low heat for 1 ½ to 2 hours, making sure the fat does not burn.
5. Once the fat has melted and the cracklings (crisp leftover pork rind) have settled to the bottom, it is ready.
6. Strain the fat to remove the cracklings.
7. Strain the fat three more times through a cheesecloth to remove any sediment.
8. Place the melted lard in a glass jar or storage container and let it sit at room temperature until firm.
9. Store the smoked pork lard in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or freeze it for up to a year.

Is smoked pork lard the same as pork fat?

Yes, smoked pork lard is made from pork fat that has been rendered and separated from the meat. It is a versatile cooking fat that can be used in various dishes.

Is smoked pork lard good for you?

Smoked pork lard is a healthier alternative to other fats, especially when sourced from pasture-raised pigs. It is high in monounsaturated fat, vitamins, and essential nutrients. However, like any cooking fat, it should be used in moderation.

Smoked pork lard is a versatile and healthy cooking fat that is making a comeback in kitchens around the world. It has a high monounsaturated fat content, is odorless and flavorless, and is rich in vitamins and essential nutrients. Smoked pork lard is shelf stable, economical, and easy to make at home. Consider adding smoked pork lard to your kitchen routine for better food and health benefits.

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