How to Make Beef Tallow
What is Beef Tallow? A Deep Dive into This Ancient Fat
Defining Beef Tallow
Beef tallow is the purified fat extracted from beef, typically sourced from the fatty tissues around a cow’s organs, like the kidneys or loin. Through a process called rendering—slowly melting and straining the fat—it transforms into a smooth, creamy substance that solidifies at room temperature. Known as "tallow fat" or "beef drippings," it’s a powerhouse for high-heat cooking and beyond.
What is Beef Tallow Made Of?
At its core, beef tallow is pure fat—about 42% saturated, 52% monounsaturated, and a smidge of polyunsaturated fats. It contains no carbs, protein, or water, but it does pack small amounts of vitamins like E and cholesterol (around 109mg per 100g). Grass-fed beef tallow often has higher levels of beneficial compounds like conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), making it a favorite among health enthusiasts.
The History of Beef Tallow: From Candles to Cuisine
Ancient Origins
Beef tallow’s story spans millennia. Early humans used it for energy, warmth, and even preservation. Egyptians slathered it on skin and burned it in lamps, while Romans cooked with it. In medieval Europe, tallow candles lit homes and streets—a testament to its versatility.
Modern Revival
The 20th century saw beef tallow sidelined by vegetable oils and health scares over saturated fats. Fast forward to today, and it’s back in the spotlight. Wellness advocates and chefs—like those at Steak ‘n Shake, which recently switched to 100% beef tallow for fries—praise its flavor and stability.
How to Make Beef Tallow: A Step-by-Step Guide
Rendering Beef Fat at Home
Want to craft your own beef tallow? It’s simpler than you think:
- Source the Fat: Grab 3-4 pounds of beef fat trimmings (brisket or suet works well) from a butcher or local beef farm near you.
- Prep: Chop the fat into small chunks for faster melting.
- Simmer: Add to a pot with a splash of water, then cook on low heat for 2-3 hours until the fat liquifies.
- Strain: Pour through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a jar.
- Cool: Let it solidify into creamy, white tallow.
Storage Tips
Does beef tallow need to be refrigerated? Not necessarily—it’s shelf-stable for months in a cool, dark place. For longer life (up to a year), pop it in the fridge.
Beef Tallow Benefits: Health, Skin, and Cooking
Nutritional Value
Per 100g, beef tallow delivers:
- Calories: 902
- Total Fat: 100g (42g saturated, 52g monounsaturated)
- Vitamin E: 2.7mg (18% DV)
- CLA: Trace amounts in grass-fed versions It supports fat-soluble vitamin absorption (A, D, E, K) and may aid weight management via CLA, though its saturated fat content raises heart health questions.
Beef Tallow for Skin: Before and After
Is beef tallow good for your skin? Absolutely. Its fatty acids mimic the skin’s natural oils, making it a stellar moisturizer. Users report softer, clearer skin—some even share tallow before and after pictures showing reduced acne and wrinkles. Grass-fed beef tallow balm or cream is tops for face care, with brands like Evil Goods offering premium options.
Cooking with Beef Tallow
With a smoke point of 420-480°F, beef tallow beats butter (350°F) and rivals avocado oil (520°F) for frying steak, roasting veggies, or crisping fries. Its subtle, savory taste enhances dishes without overpowering them.
Beef Tallow vs. Other Fats: Lard, Olive Oil, Ghee, and More
Tallow vs. Lard
Beef tallow is firmer and more saturated than pork-derived lard, giving it a higher smoke point (480°F vs. 374°F). Lard’s milder flavor suits baking, while tallow excels in frying.
Tallow vs. Olive Oil
Is tallow healthier than olive oil? Olive oil’s unsaturated fats win for heart health, but tallow’s stability at high heat makes it less prone to oxidation—a plus for frying.
Beef Tallow vs. Ghee
Ghee (clarified butter) has a nutty taste and 450°F smoke point, but tallow’s beefy depth and skin benefits edge it out for versatility.
Beef Tallow vs. Avocado Oil
Avocado oil’s 520°F smoke point tops tallow, but tallow’s richer flavor and affordability make it a contender. Neither is definitively "healthiest"—it depends on your goals.
Is Beef Tallow Healthy? Pros and Cons
Benefits
- Enhances vitamin absorption
- Provides steady energy from saturated fats
- High smoke point reduces harmful compounds during cooking
Risks
- High saturated fat may raise cholesterol—bad for heart health if overused
- Possible contaminants (pesticides, hormones) in non-grass-fed tallow
- Not ideal for those avoiding beef (vegans, allergies)
Who Should Avoid Beef Tallow?
People with heart disease, high cholesterol, or fat-restricted diets should limit it. Moderation is key.
Beef Tallow Uses: From Kitchen to Skincare
Culinary Magic
- Frying: Crispy fries or steak in tallow? Yes, please.
- Roasting: Veggies get a flavor boost.
- Baking: Swap it for butter in pie crusts.
Skincare Star
- Moisturizer: Tallow cream hydrates dry skin.
- Balm: Soothes chapped lips or eczema.
- Face Cream: Best beef tallow for face fights aging naturally.
Beyond the Basics
Make soap, candles, or even leather conditioner—tallow’s uses are endless.
Where to Buy Beef Tallow Near Me
Local Options
Check local beef farms near you for fresh fat to render. Butcher shops often sell pre-made tallow too.
Big Retailers
- Costco: Occasionally stocks grass-fed beef tallow—call ahead.
- Online: Amazon offers Wagyu beef tallow or organic grass-fed options from brands like Simplrdeals.
FAQs About Beef Tallow
Is Cooking with Beef Tallow Unhealthy?
Not inherently—it’s stable for frying, but its saturated fat content means moderation matters.
Is Steak ‘n Shake Using Beef Tallow?
Yes, as of 2025, select locations in Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida use 100% beef tallow for fries.
Why Did People Stop Using Beef Tallow?
The shift to vegetable oils in the mid-20th century came from cheaper production and saturated fat fears.
What Does Tallow Taste Like?
It’s mildly savory with a beefy undertone—subtle enough for versatile cooking.
Are Cows Killed for Tallow?
Not specifically—it’s a byproduct of beef production.
Is Beef Tallow Just Grease?
No, grease is unrendered fat; tallow is purified and clarified.
Does Beef Tallow Actually Work for Skin?
Yes, many swear by its hydrating and healing effects—check tallow before and after reviews online.
Why Beef Tallow Deserves a Spot in Your Life
Beef tallow isn’t just a fat—it’s a time-tested multitasker. Whether you’re frying a steak, whipping up a tallow face cream, or sourcing grass-fed beef tallow near me, it delivers flavor, function, and a nod to tradition. Optimize your kitchen and skincare with this powerhouse, but balance it with your health needs. Ready to try it? Render your own or grab some today!
Key Takeaways
- Beef tallow is a rendered beef fat prized for its high smoke point, rich flavor, and versatility in cooking and skincare.
- It boasts potential health perks, like aiding vitamin absorption and weight management, though its saturated fat content sparks debate.
- From frying steak to moisturizing skin, beef tallow shines as a multi-use fat with a rich history.
- Grass-fed options and DIY rendering make it accessible for those seeking quality and control.
