How to render lard
Mar 05, 2025
Rendering lard at home is simple and rewarding, giving you a pure, high-quality cooking fat free from additives. Follow this step-by-step guide to transform pasture-raised pork back fat into smooth, shelf-stable lard perfect for frying, baking, and sautéing.
What You’ll Need:
• 2–5 lbs pasture-raised pork back fat, trimmed of any meat
• ½ cup water (prevents scorching at the beginning)
• Heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Heatproof glass jars or containers for storage
Step 1: Prepare the Fat
1. Trim and Chop – If there are any bits of meat on the fat, trim them off to avoid a porky taste. Cut the fat into small cubes (½-inch pieces) or grind it in a food processor for faster rendering.
Step 2: Start Rendering
Stovetop Method (Traditional Approach):
1. Place the fat in a heavy-bottomed pot (Dutch oven works best).
2. Add ½ cup of water to prevent scorching. The water will evaporate as the fat renders.
3. Set the heat to low and allow the fat to melt slowly. Stir occasionally.
Slow Cooker Method (Hands-Off Approach):
1. Set the slow cooker to LOW heat.
2. Add the fat and let it render for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Strain the Lard
1. Once most of the fat has melted and small browned bits (cracklings) remain, remove from heat.
2. Strain the liquid fat through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into clean, heatproof jars.
3. Discard the solids (or save them as cracklings for a crispy snack!).
Step 4: Store the Lard
• Let the lard cool at room temperature. It will turn from golden liquid to a creamy white solid.
• Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 6 months or freeze for a year.
How to Use Rendered Lard
• Frying & Sautéing – Great for high-heat cooking with a neutral flavor.
• Baking – Makes flaky pie crusts, biscuits, and tortillas.
• Seasoning Cast Iron – Protects and enhances your cookware.
Now that you have pure, pasture-raised lard, enjoy cooking with a clean, flavorful fat that enhances every dish!
Order our pasture-raised pork back fat today and start rendering your own lard at home!
