How to Render Tallow (the easy way)

Tallow…..what the heck is tallow anyways?

Tallow is rendered beef fat (suet). It is similar to lard except from cows instead of pigs.

No, you probably aren’t hearing about your friends rendering their beef fat last week. Tallow is a traditional fat used by your grand and great-grandparents. From grass-fed cows, it’s a much MUCH healthier – rich in Vitamins A and D – option than Crisco shortening and vegetable oils.

Unfortunately with the introduction of highly processed plant based oils, tallow has become somewhat hard to find. Unless you render you own or buy it (here), it can be nearly impossible to obtain.

Tallow is rich in several components that are great for our health –

Omega 3 fatty acids – These are essential for good health. Since our bodies cannot make them, they must come from food. “they also lower blood pressure and heart rate, improve blood vessel function, and, at higher doses, lower triglycerides and may ease inflammation.” (10)

Conjugated linoelic acid (CLA) – Animal studies show that as little as 0.5 percent CLA in your diet could reduce tumors by over 50 percent, including several types of tumors.

Vitamin K2 – ” has confirmed that vitamin K2’s role in the body extends far beyond blood clotting to include protecting us from heart disease, ensuring healthy skin, forming strong bones, promoting brain function, supporting growth and development and helping to prevent cancer – to name a few” (11)

It’s also super important to know your source. Since toxins and things such as antibiotics are likely to be stored in the fat, it’s important to source your suet from grass-fed cows.

Rendering your own:

Step 1: Cut up your hunk of suet into smaller chunks.

Step 2: In your food processor, grind the fat into crumbles.

Step 3: Place crumbled fat into a strainer or veggie steamer over a pot. Place in a 220 degree oven for 8-12 hours.

Step 4: Stir the fat crumbles occasionally to prevent burning. When they have turned to crispy bits, you know your tallow is done. Strain threw cheesecloth to ensure all the small bits are removed.