Homemade Tallow for Cooking and Skincare
Have you heard the buzz about tallow?
This old-fashioned staple is making a big comeback, and for good reason.
Tallow isn’t just a versatile cooking fat; it’s also an incredible natural moisturizer for your skin.
If you’ve ever wondered what tallow is, how to make it, and why you should switch to it for both cooking and skincare, this post has you covered.
What Is Tallow?
Tallow is rendered fat, typically from beef or lamb, that has been purified and turned into a solid, shelf-stable product. Historically, tallow was a kitchen and skincare essential, used by our ancestors for everything from frying foods to protecting their skin from harsh conditions.
Unlike modern seed oils (think vegetable, canola, or soybean oil), tallow is naturally rich in nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K, and it’s packed with healthy saturated fats that your body and skin will thank you for.
Why Switch to Tallow?
For Cooking
- Healthier Alternative: Unlike seed oils, which can oxidize and become inflammatory when heated, tallow is heat-stable and doesn’t break down into harmful compounds.
- Flavor Boost: Tallow adds a rich, savory depth to your dishes, making it perfect for frying, roasting, or even baking.
- Ancestral Wisdom: Our ancestors relied on tallow for cooking long before seed oils came along, and many believe it’s time to bring it back.
For Skincare
- Moisturizing Power: Tallow is incredibly nourishing for the skin, thanks to its similarity to our skin’s natural oils. It’s especially great for dry or sensitive skin.
- Non-Toxic: Unlike commercial lotions filled with synthetic ingredients, tallow is all-natural and free of harsh chemicals.
- Anti-Aging Benefits: The vitamins and fatty acids in tallow help maintain skin elasticity and promote a healthy glow.
Where to Source Tallow
- Local Butchers: Ask for beef or lamb fat trimmings. Many butchers are happy to provide this at a low cost.
- Farmers Markets: Look for vendors selling pasture-raised meats—they often have fat available.
- Online: If local options aren’t available, you can order grass-fed beef fat online from trusted sources.
How to Make Tallow in a Crockpot
Making your own tallow at home is easier than you think! Here’s how:
Ingredients and Supplies
- Beef or lamb fat (ask for suet or fat trimmings)
- Water
- 1 tsp salt (optional, for purification)
- Cheesecloth
- Crockpot
- Strainer
- Large bowl
- Airtight containers for storage
Instructions
- Prepare the Fat: Chop the fat into small pieces or ask your butcher to grind it for you.
- Add to Crockpot: Place the fat in the crockpot, add water to cover the bottom (about 1 cup), and sprinkle in salt.
- Render: Set the crockpot to low and let the fat slowly render for 8–12 hours. Stir occasionally.
- Strain: Once the fat is fully melted and golden, strain it through a cheesecloth into a large bowl. This removes any impurities or leftover solids.
- Cool Overnight: Let the strained tallow cool, then refrigerate overnight. The tallow will solidify, and impurities will settle at the bottom.
- Scrape Off Impurities: Remove the solid tallow from the container and scrape off any remaining impurities.
- Reheat for Purity: Place the tallow back in the crockpot and heat gently to purify further. Strain again if needed.
Now you have pure, odorless tallow that’s perfect for both cooking and skincare!
Using Tallow for Skincare
Tallow makes a wonderful moisturizer on its own, or you can whip it into a creamy balm with essential oils for added benefits. Simply apply a small amount to your face, hands, or body as needed. It absorbs beautifully, leaving your skin hydrated without feeling greasy.
Cooking with Tallow
Use tallow in place of seed oils for frying, roasting vegetables, or making flaky pie crusts. It’s especially delicious for pan-searing meats or frying potatoes to crispy perfection.
FAQ
1. Does tallow smell like beef?
When rendered properly and purified, tallow should have little to no scent. Reheating and straining it a second time removes any lingering beefy smell.
2. How long does homemade tallow last?
Tallow is shelf-stable and can last up to a year in an airtight container at room temperature. For extended freshness, store it in the fridge or freezer.
3. Is tallow good for all skin types?
Yes! Tallow is especially beneficial for dry or sensitive skin but works well for all skin types due to its compatibility with our skin’s natural oils.
4. Can I use tallow for baking?
Absolutely! Tallow can replace butter or shortening in recipes for a richer, more savory flavor.
5. Is tallow sustainable?
Yes. By using fat trimmings that might otherwise go to waste, making tallow is a sustainable way to honor the whole animal.
Homemade tallow is a versatile, nutrient-rich option for both cooking and skincare. It’s easy to make, incredibly beneficial, and a simple step toward living more like our ancestors. Whether you choose to cook with it, pamper your skin, or both, tallow is worth the hype.
Ready to make the switch? Let me know how it turns out!
