Can you eat lard raw? – it is one of the common questions among those who didn’t try raw lard yet. Today we will try to give you the answer with a detailed explanation.
If you’re like most people, the word “lard” probably doesn’t conjure up images of something healthy. But what if I told you that lard is a great source of monounsaturated fat and vitamin D? Sound too good to be true? It’s not – lard really is a great way to add some healthy fats to your diet.
Keep reading to learn more about the health benefits of eating lard raw!
What Is Lard?
Lard is a type of fat that is derived from pigs. It is typically used in baking and cooking, as it has a high melting point and can help to create flaky pastries and tender meat.
Although lard has been used for centuries, it fell out of favor in the mid-20th century due to concerns about its saturated fat content.
However, recent studies have shown that lard can actually be beneficial for health, as it contains high levels of monounsaturated fats and vitamin D.
As a result, lard is once again becoming a popular cooking ingredient, and many people are discovering its unique flavor and versatility.
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Can You Eat Lard Raw?
Yes, lard can be eaten raw, and many people enjoy its flavor. It is important to note, however, that raw lard should only be sourced from healthy pigs that have been raised on a nutritious diet.
Unfortunately, most commercial lard is derived from industrially-raised pigs that are fed an unhealthy diet of corn and soy.
As a result, this lard is often of poor quality and can contain harmful chemicals. If you want to eat raw lard, make sure to source it from a trusted butcher or farmer.
The Benefits of Eating Raw Lard
There are many benefits to eating raw lard.
First, as mentioned above, lard is a great source of healthy fats. In particular, it contains high levels of oleic acid, a type of monounsaturated fat that has been shown to promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
Lard is also a good source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immunity.
Finally, lard is rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of fatty acid that has been linked to a variety of health benefits, including improved immune function.
Side Effects of Raw Lard
Although raw lard is generally safe, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of.
First, as we mentioned before, commercially-raised lard can often be of poor quality and may contain harmful chemicals. If you choose to eat raw lard, make sure to source it from a trusted butcher or farmer.
Additionally, some people may be allergic to lard, so it’s important to test a small amount before consuming it in large quantities.
Finally, raw lard is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation if you are trying to lose weight.
How To Make Lard At Home?
If you want to make raw lard at home, the best way to do it is to render it yourself.
Rendering is a process of slowly cooking the fat to separate out the solid and liquid components.
To render lard, start by cutting pork fat into small pieces and then add it to a slow cooker set to low heat.
Cook the fat for 8-10 hours, or until it has melted completely.
Once the lard has cooled, strain it through a cheesecloth to remove any solid bits, and then transfer it to a jar or container.
Raw lard will keep in the fridge for up to 6 months.
How to Use Raw Lard?
If you choose to eat raw lard, there are a few ways to use it. These include:
Cooking
Raw lard can be used in place of other cooking fats, such as butter or vegetable oil. It has a high smoke point, so it’s ideal for frying or sauteing.
Baking
Raw lard can be used in baking recipes that call for butter or shortening. It will create tender, flaky pastries and baked goods.
Spread
Raw lard can be used as a spread, similar to peanut butter or cream cheese. It’s delicious on toast or crackers, and can also be used in recipes like Deviled Eggs.
Lard Recipes:
If you’re looking for ways to use raw lard in your cooking, here are a few recipes to get you started:
Lard and Herb Roasted potatoes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of small red potatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup lard
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Place potatoes in a large roasting pan. Add lard, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper; toss to coat.
- Roast potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
Lard and Bacon Fried Cabbage
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup lard
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 head cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the lard.
- Add bacon and cook until crisp.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Add cabbage to the pot and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, sugar, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Return bacon to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve warm.
Lard Pie Crust
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup lard, cold
- 1/4 cup ice water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Cut in lard with a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water.
- Stirring constantly with a fork, until the dough comes together.
- Divide dough in half, shape each into a disk and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 2 days).
Lard Soap Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lard
- 8 ounces coconut oil
- 8 ounces olive oil
- 6 ounces lye crystals
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt the lard and oils together.
- Slowly add the lye crystals.
- Stirring constantly until they are fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into molds and allow to cool completely.
- Cut into bars and use as desired.
Why Lard is Bad For Some People?
Lard is saturated fat, which means it can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease.
Additionally, lard is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation if you are trying to lose weight.
Finally, commercially-raised lard can often be of poor quality and may contain harmful chemicals. If you choose to eat raw lard, make sure to source it from a trusted butcher or farmer.
When used in moderation, lard can be a healthy addition to your diet. However, some people may want to avoid it due to its saturated fat content and potential side effects. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor before consuming raw lard.
Who Shouldn’t Eat Raw Lard?
While raw lard can be a healthy addition to your diet, there are some people who should avoid it. These include:
- People with high cholesterol: Lard is high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease.
- People with heart disease: Lard’s saturated fat content may worsen heart disease.
- People trying to lose weight: Lard is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation if you are trying to lose weight.
- People with diabetes: Lard’s saturated fat and calorie content can contribute to weight gain, which can worsen diabetes.
- Pregnant women: Lard may contain harmful chemicals that can cross the placenta and harm the developing fetus.
- Children: Lard may contain harmful chemicals that can affect a child’s development.
- Elderly people: Lard may contain harmful chemicals that can worsen age-related diseases.
Some FAQs about Lard:
Is Lard Halal?
No, lard is not halal. Lard is pork fat and pork is not halal.
Is Lard Bad For You?
Lard is a type of fat that is extracted from pig carcasses. It is high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease.
Additionally, lard is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation if you are trying to lose weight.
Finally, lard produced commercially is frequently of poor quality and may include dangerous substances. If you choose to eat raw lard, make sure to source it from a trusted butcher or farmer.
How Do You Cook With Lard?
Lard can be used for cooking and baking. When used in recipes, it adds a rich, savory flavor. Lard can also be used to grease pans or to make pastry dough.
What Is The Difference Between Lard And Bacon Grease?
Bacon grease is made from rendered bacon fat, whereas lard is made from rendered pig fat. Both are high in saturated fat and should be used sparingly. Bacon grease may have a slightly smokier flavor than lard since it is made from bacon.
Can I Substitute Lard For Butter?
Lard can be used as a butter substitute in some recipes. However, it is important to note that lard is higher in saturated fat than butter, so it should be used sparingly.
Additionally, lard may change the flavor and texture of your recipe, so use it only if you are comfortable with these changes.
What Are Some Other Uses For Lard?
Lard can also be used for various beauty and hygiene purposes. For example, it can be used as a moisturizer or shaving cream.
Additionally, lard can be used to make candles or soap. Finally, lard can be used as a lubricant for various mechanical tasks.
Is Lard Good For Your Hair?
Lard can be used as a hair treatment. It can help to moisturize the scalp and hair, and may also help to control dandruff.
Conclusion
So, can you eat lard raw? While there are some benefits to consuming raw lard, it is also important to be aware of the potential risks.
Lard is high in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to heart disease and weight gain.
Additionally, commercially-raised lard may be of poor quality and contain harmful chemicals. If you choose to eat raw lard, make sure to source it from a trusted butcher or farmer.
Finally, be sure to use it sparingly, as it is high in saturated fat. Thanks for reading!
