Lard from pork fat, for cookies

Pork Lard Recipe for Cookies

Surely, you have heard of lard, but do you know what leaf lard is? This is the raw fat from the abdominal area of the pig, an essential ingredient in cooking, especially when it comes to traditional dishes. Although it may seem like a mundane recipe, making lard from pig leaf lard deserves all the attention. Not only is it a fantastic alternative to butter, but it also enhances the texture and flavor of homemade sweets. Let's discover together how to achieve perfect lard, ideal for tender and aromatic cookies!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1-2 hours
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 1 serving (approximately 1 liter of lard)

Ingredients:
- 2 kg of pig leaf lard (make sure it is high quality)
- 1 cup of water
- 1-2 tablespoons of coarse salt
- ½ raw onion (optional, to prevent rancidity)

Making Lard from Leaf Lard: Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the leaf lard
Start by cutting the pig leaf lard into small cubes, about 2-3 cm. This will help the fat melt evenly. Make sure you have a sharp knife and, if possible, use a stable cutting board.

Step 2: Cooking the leaf lard
Place the cut leaf lard in the pot of the Multicooker. Add a cup of water, the coarse salt, and ½ raw onion. This last ingredient will not change the taste of the lard, but it will help prevent it from going rancid.

Step 3: Activating the program
Without putting on the lid, start the Multicooker on the "Fry" program. You will notice how the fat begins to melt and transforms into lard. Stir occasionally to ensure everything melts evenly.

Step 4: Removing the cracklings
After about 1-2 hours, the leaf lard should be completely melted, and the cracklings will become transparent and golden. Carefully remove the onion and the cracklings using a slotted spoon. Remember that the cracklings from the leaf lard are not edible, so don't worry if you don't have a delicious product.

Step 5: Storing the lard
Pour the obtained lard into clean, dry jars. Allow them to cool completely before sealing. Store the jars in a cool, dark place. The lard from leaf lard can last for several years without developing an odor.

Details about Ingredients
- Leaf lard: Choose leaf lard from a quality pig, preferably from a naturally fed animal. This will influence the aroma and texture of the final lard.
- Coarse salt: Helps preserve the lard and enhances the flavor. You can use sea salt for an extra flavor boost.
- Onion: Although optional, the added onion helps maintain the freshness of the lard.

Nutritional Benefits
Lard from pig leaf lard is rich in mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which can help maintain heart health. Additionally, it is a good source of energy and has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking.

Practical Tips
- Cooking on the stove: If you don't have a Multicooker, you can also use a pot on the stove. Set the heat to low and stir occasionally.
- Using the leaf lard: You can use the obtained lard not only for cookies but also for cooking vegetables, frying meat, or making various sauces.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding spices or herbs during the melting process to give the lard unique flavors.

Delicious Combinations
Lard from leaf lard is perfect for use in classic cookie recipes or in pastry recipes. It also pairs excellently with fruit compote or homemade jam. I recommend trying a hot tea or fresh lemonade to complement the savory taste of your desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it necessary to use water in the melting process?
Water helps melt the leaf lard more evenly and prevents it from burning.

- Can I use lard from leaf lard for cooking other dishes?
Absolutely! Lard from leaf lard is versatile and can be used in many recipes, from frying to pastry dishes.

- How do I know if the lard has gone bad?
If you notice an unpleasant smell or a change in color, it is best to throw it away.

I wish you much success in preparing this delicious lard from pig leaf lard! It is an ingredient that will transform your cookie recipes into a true delight!