Pork Cut Series: The Fat

Today, we're diving deep into the glorious world of pork fat. If you're not already drooling, you will be soon!

Let's break it down and get to know the different cuts of fat and how to prepare.

Exploring the Fat Cut

Pork fat isn't just one homogenous lump of deliciousness - it's a treasure trove of different fats, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here's a quick rundown:

1. Back Fat: This rich, creamy fat comes from, you guessed it, the pig's back. It's perfect for rendering down into luscious lard or crafting crispy cracklings (click here for the recipe). Tip: Score the fat before cooking to help it render evenly and get that perfect crunch!
2. Belly Fat: Ah, the holy grail of pork fat! Belly fat, also known as streaky bacon, is a meaty masterpiece. Whether you're curing it for bacon or slow-roasting it for that melt-in-your-mouth goodness, this fat is pure indulgence. Tip: Slow and low is the way to go for the juiciest, most flavorful results!
3. Leaf Fat: Found around the pig's kidneys, leaf fat is the crème de la crème of pork fat. It's super soft and has a mild flavor, making it ideal for baking and pastry making. Tip: Keep it chilled before using to make it easier to work with!

Cooking Up a Storm

Now that we know our fats, how do we make the most of them in the kitchen? Here are a few pro tips:

• Rendering: For back fat and leaf fat, slow and gentle rendering is key. Heat it up slowly to coax out all those delicious flavors without burning.
• Crisping: When cooking with belly fat, start low and slow to render out the fat, then crank up the heat at the end to crisp up that golden skin.
• Flavor Boost: Don't be afraid to get creative! Infuse your rendered fat with herbs, spices, or aromatics for an extra flavor kick.

From Fat to Suds

But wait, there's more! Did you know you can even make soap from pork fat? That's right, rendering down your fat into lard can be the first step towards crafting your own luxurious soap bars. 

It's a time-honored tradition that adds a whole new dimension to your DIY game! Tip: Research different soap-making methods and ingredients to find the perfect recipe for your skin's needs.

Click here for our DIY soap recipe.

Top Tricks

• Keep your fat cold before using it to make it easier to work with and prevent it from melting too quickly.
• Strain your rendered fat through a fine mesh sieve to remove any impurities and keep it silky smooth.
• Store any leftover fat in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer for future culinary adventures!

And there you have it! A crash course in all things pork fat. Whether you're frying, roasting, or baking, these tips and tricks will help you make the most of this flavorful fat. 

So go ahead, embrace the fat, and let your taste buds rejoice!

Click here to buy your forest raised pork fat.