Tallow is having a moment!
It’s easy to see why, with its countless benefits and versatility. How wild is it that we can cook (literally anything) with it, and also go ahead and rub some on our face and body skin and cure nearly any ailment!?
So what is tallow? Maybe you’ve seen it on your social feeds, in your mom groups, or know someone who’s suddenly talking about how great it is! It may even not be new to you, but maybe you just want to know what it is exactly, how it’s made, or what else you could do with it if you’re already using it!
What even is tallow?
Tallow is a type of rendered fat, primarily derived from beef or mutton. The most common that we see is from beef, and if people don’t specify mutton, it’s safe to always assume beef. Tallow is created by rendering the fatty tissue, particularly the fat around the kidneys, known as suet. This process involves slowly heating the fat until it melts, allowing impurities to be removed. The result is a solid, white, or beige fat that is stable at room temperature.
Historically, tallow was a staple in many households, used for cooking, making candles, soaps, and even as a lubricant. Its popularity declined with the rise of vegetable oils, but it is now being rediscovered for its natural and beneficial properties
Why cook with tallow?
Cooking with tallow, which is rendered beef fat, offers several benefits:
- High Smoke Point: Tallow has a high smoke point of around 400°F (204°C), making it ideal for frying and high-heat cooking. This means it doesn’t break down and release harmful compounds as quickly as some other fats (looking at you, olive oil).
- Nutrient-Rich: It’s rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are essential for various bodily functions, including immune support and bone health.
- Flavorful: Tallow adds a rich, savory flavor to dishes, enhancing the taste of meats and vegetables. It’s particularly prized for roasting and frying.
- Stable Fat: Being a saturated fat, tallow is more stable than many vegetable oils, meaning it doesn’t oxidize as quickly and can be stored for longer periods. Generally, it’s shelf-stable for up to a year if kept in cool, dark conditions; it can also be stored in the fridge or freezer.
- Natural and Traditional: Tallow is a natural fat that has been used in traditional cooking for centuries, offering a wholesome alternative to processed oils, seed oils, and all the latest bad-for-you alternatives.
We’re really putting this on our skin, too?
Yes! As wild as that sounds. But, we’re not scooping the fat out of the pan after we cook steaks and just slathering it on. As with all of these applications, it’s rendered and purified, extensively, making it not nearly as gross as it may sound!
Benefits of Tallow for Skincare
- Moisturizing: Tallow closely resembles the natural oils produced by human skin, allowing it to penetrate deeply and provide lasting hydration. It’s particularly effective for dry and sensitive skin4.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K, tallow supports healthy skin regeneration and barrier function. These vitamins help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Tallow contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin and conditions like eczema and psoriasis4.
- Non-Comedogenic: Tallow is non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin
Other Applications of Tallow
- Candle Making: Tallow has been used for centuries to make candles. It burns cleanly and provides a steady flame, making it an excellent natural alternative to paraffin wax.
- Soap Making: Tallow is a key ingredient in traditional soap making, producing a hard, long-lasting bar with a creamy lather. It’s gentle on the skin and provides excellent moisturizing properties.
- Lubrication: Tallow can be used as a lubricant for various mechanical applications, including conditioning leather and maintaining wooden tools!
Whether you’re looking to enhance your cooking, improve your skincare routine, or explore traditional crafts, tallow offers numerous benefits that make it a valuable addition to your household.