OH MY LARD!

Lard has long been misunderstood, but it’s time to reconsider this traditional cooking fat. At Eremos Farm, our pasture-raised, non-GMO-fed pigs produce high-quality lard that is rich in nutrients and perfect for a variety of culinary uses. Here’s why lard deserves a place in your kitchen, and how it can contribute to a healthy and sustainable diet.

What is Lard?

Lard is simply rendered pig fat, but the quality depends on how the pigs are raised. Our lard comes from pigs that are pasture-raised and fed a natural, non-GMO diet, which results in a clean and nutrient-rich product. There are two main types of lard we offer:

• Leaf lard: This comes from the fat around the kidneys and is ideal for baking. It’s especially prized for making light and flaky pastries like pie crusts and biscuits.

• Fatback lard: This is from the fat along the pig’s back and is excellent for frying, roasting, and sautéing due to its high smoke point and stable structure.

Both types of lard are neutral in flavor, making them versatile for a wide range of dishes.

Health Benefits of Lard

Lard offers several health benefits, making it a good alternative to many vegetable oils and butter:

1. Rich in Healthy Fats
   Lard is naturally high in monounsaturated fats, the same heart-healthy fats found in olive oil. It also contains less saturated fat than butter and is free from trans fats, making it a healthier option for everyday cooking.

2. A Great Source of Vitamin D
   One of lard’s standout nutritional benefits is its high vitamin D content. Just a tablespoon of pasture-raised lard can provide nearly 1,100 IU of vitamin D, which is significantly higher than many other food sources. This can help maintain healthy bones, support immune function, and even improve mood, especially in colder months when sunlight is scarce.

3. High Smoke Point for Safe Cooking
   Lard has a higher smoke point than many oils, meaning it can withstand high temperatures without breaking down and releasing harmful free radicals. This makes it a safer choice for frying, roasting, and sautéing, especially compared to oils that oxidize at lower temperatures.

4. A Balanced Omega-3 to Omega-6 Ratio
   The diet of pasture-raised pigs enhances the omega-3 content of their fat, which can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health. This balance is often skewed in conventionally raised pork, making pasture-raised lard a healthier choice.

5. Sustainable and Waste-Reducing
   Using lard is part of a sustainable approach to eating, where every part of the animal is utilized. This practice, often called “nose-to-tail” eating, helps reduce food waste and makes the most of the nutritional value each animal provides.

How to Use Lard in Your Cooking

Lard is incredibly versatile. It can be used in:

• Baking: For perfectly flaky pie crusts, biscuits, and cookies.

• Frying and sautéing: Thanks to its high smoke point, lard is excellent for frying vegetables or meats without the risk of burning or creating harmful compounds.

• Roasting: Use it to roast potatoes, chicken, or vegetables for a rich, even flavor.

Because lard is neutral in taste, it won’t overpower the natural flavors of your ingredients, making it a great option for a wide range of recipes.

So what does this all really mean for you??

Lard, particularly when sourced from pasture-raised pigs, is a nutrient-dense and versatile fat that has numerous health benefits. With its balance of healthy fats, high vitamin D content, and stability for high-heat cooking, it’s a valuable addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re baking, frying, or roasting, lard offers a natural, sustainable option that your body will recognize and use efficiently.

If you're looking to incorporate a traditional, healthy fat into your cooking, consider trying pasture-raised lard from a trusted source like Eremos Farm.

Buy Leaf Lard for baking pies

Buy traditional lard for all other cooking! (Not sure how to render lard? It’s super easy! Check out our blog post in recipes!)