When it comes to cooking with beef tallow, the possibilities are endless. This versatile and flavorful fat is often overlooked in favor of more trendy oils, but it’s truly a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their cooking game. With its rich, buttery flavor and high smoke point, beef tallow is perfect for frying, sautéing, or simply adding depth to your favorite dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory beef tallow recipes that will take your cooking to the next level. From crispy fried chicken and golden roasted potatoes to decadent pie crust and fluffy biscuits, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with this incredible ingredient.
Beef tallow fried chicken
Experience the rich flavor of beef tallow in this Southern-style fried chicken recipe. This traditional cooking method yields crispy, juicy, and flavorful results.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup beef tallow (or clarified butter)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat beef tallow in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry chicken in batches, if necessary, for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted potatoes in beef tallow
Transform ordinary roasted potatoes into a rich and savory delight by cooking them in beef tallow, a game-changer for any potato lover. This recipe yields crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside spuds that will become your new favorite side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup beef tallow (or rendered beef fat)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potato wedges with beef tallow until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes reach desired level of crispiness.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef tallow seared steak
This recipe showcases the rich flavor of beef tallow seared steak, a classic technique that yields a tender and juicy cut. The use of beef tallow adds a depth of flavor and tenderness to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 steaks (depending on size), preferably ribeye or strip loin
– 1/4 cup beef tallow (clarified butter)
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Add the beef tallow to the preheated skillet and let it melt.
5. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Rare: 4-5 minutes
– Medium-rare: 5-6 minutes
– Medium: 7-8 minutes
Homemade beef tallow tortillas
A traditional Latin American staple gets a boost from rich, savory beef tallow. These tender tortillas are perfect for wrapping up your favorite fillings or using as a base for tacos and other dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup beef tallow, melted
– 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the melted beef tallow and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the warm water and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces and shape each into a ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Cook tortillas on a dry griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat for 30-45 seconds per side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef tallow popcorn
Elevate your popcorn game with this rich and savory recipe, perfect for movie nights or as a snack to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup beef tallow (or substitute with other high-heat cooking fat)
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or deep fryer, melt the beef tallow over medium heat.
3. Add the popcorn kernels and stir constantly until they start popping.
4. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until the popping slows down.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Pour the popcorn onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious beef tallow popcorn!
Beef tallow biscuits
Take a trip back in time with these tender and flaky biscuits, made with the rich flavor of beef tallow. Perfect for accompanying your favorite soups, stews, or as a side to your Sunday roast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold beef tallow (or lard), cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the beef tallow into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes or simply drop by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Deep-fried beef tallow onion rings
Elevate your snack game with these addictive onion rings, infused with the rich flavor of beef tallow and a satisfying crunch from the deep-frying process.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced into rings
– 1 cup beef tallow (or vegetable oil), for frying
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Dredge the onion rings in the spice mixture to coat evenly.
3. Heat the beef tallow (or vegetable oil) in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Carefully add the coated onion rings to the hot oil in batches, being mindful of the temperature.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on the batch size).
Beef tallow roasted Brussels sprouts
A savory twist on a classic roasted vegetable dish, this recipe combines the rich flavor of beef tallow with the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons beef tallow (or duck fat)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with beef tallow, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef tallow pie crust
This recipe produces a flaky and flavorful pie crust using beef tallow, a traditional ingredient that adds depth and richness to your baked goods. Perfect for savory or sweet fillings, this crust is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold beef tallow (chilled and cubed)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the cold beef tallow and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough to desired thickness for your pie or tart.
7. Bake crust for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef tallow scrambled eggs
Start your day with a decadent breakfast featuring the rich flavors of beef tallow and fluffy scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp beef tallow (or clarified butter)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Heat the beef tallow in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs, breaking them up into small curds.
5. Continue cooking and scrambling until the eggs are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes more.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes
Beef tallow hash browns
Elevate your breakfast game with these crispy, golden hash browns cooked to perfection in beef tallow. The rich, savory flavor of the tallow adds a depth and complexity that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup beef tallow (or vegetable oil)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes and salt. Mix well.
2. Heat the beef tallow in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the potato mixture to the skillet in batches, spreading evenly.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the edges start to brown.
5. Use a spatula to gently flip and press the hash browns into a cohesive shape.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beef tallow cornbread
This recipe combines the rich flavor of beef tallow with the warmth of cornbread, creating a perfect accompaniment to any meal. The use of beef tallow adds a savory and slightly sweet note to the traditional cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup beef tallow, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted beef tallow.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef tallow fried rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this simple recipe using beef tallow, a rich and savory cooking fat. This dish is perfect for using up leftover rice and adding a delicious twist to a classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup beef tallow
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the beef tallow in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Push the onion aside, crack in the eggs, and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the onion, then add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice.
5. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps as needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef tallow roasted root vegetables
This recipe elevates humble root vegetables to new heights by using beef tallow, a natural and flavorful fat that adds depth and complexity to the dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons beef tallow
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with the beef tallow until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste; add any additional seasonings if desired.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef tallow chocolate chip cookies
These indulgent cookies combine the deep flavor of beef tallow with the sweetness of chocolate chips, creating a truly unique baking experience. Perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup beef tallow, melted
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and melted beef tallow until light and fluffy.
3. Add sugars and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Beef tallow caramelized carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of beef tallow with the natural sweetness of caramelized carrots. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby carrots, peeled
– 2 tablespoons beef tallow (or vegetable oil)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with beef tallow, brown sugar, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve hot alongside your favorite main course.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef tallow fried plantains
Savor the combination of crispy plantains and rich beef tallow in this Caribbean-inspired side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1/2 cup beef tallow (or vegetable shortening)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the beef tallow in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 350°F.
2. Carefully add the plantain slices to the skillet in batches, being mindful of the hot oil.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the plantains are golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the fried plantains from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess tallow.
5. Sprinkle the plantains with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of batches)
Serve warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes. Enjoy!
Beef tallow Yorkshire pudding
Classic Beef Tallow Yorkshire Pudding Recipe
Yorkshire pudding, a staple of British cuisine, gets an authentic twist with the use of beef tallow instead of butter or oil. This rich and savory pastry is perfect for serving alongside roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup beef tallow, melted
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted beef tallow until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Pour in the water and whisk until a thick batter forms.
6. Pour the batter into a greased 12-cup muffin tin or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve warm with your favorite roast meats and enjoy the rich flavors of this classic Yorkshire pudding recipe!
Summary
Discover the versatility of beef tallow with these 18 savory recipes. From crispy delights like fried chicken and onion rings to sweet treats like chocolate chip cookies, beef tallow adds a rich flavor to any dish. Learn how to make everything from roasted potatoes and seared steak to homemade tortillas and biscuits. Whether you’re looking for a delicious side dish or a decadent dessert, this collection of recipes has something for everyone.