Forktionary
Animal Fat | Keto Carnivore

Ham Fat

Sus scrofa domesticus Allergen-Free
ham fat

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine European, Southern American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Pork (pig fat)

The Forktionary Angle

"The forgotten flavor booster: how to utilize ham fat for unparalleled depth in savory dishes."

Definition

Rendered fat from cured pork leg, possessing a distinct salty, smoky, and savory flavor, ideal for enriching savory dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteSalty, Umami, Savory, Smoky, Pork
TextureViscous (when melted), Solid/Creamy (when cool), Fatty
AromaSmoky, Cured Pork, Rich
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Culinary Use

Excellent for frying, roasting vegetables, and making roux.

Smoke Point

Approx. 370°F (188°C) for rendered fat.

Storage Lifespan

Rendered fat: 6 months refrigerated, 1 year frozen.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tbsp (13g)
Calories900 kcal
Total Fat100g
Saturated Fat40g
Trans Fat1g
Cholesterol95mg
Protein0g
Total Carbohydrate0g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0g
Calcium0mg
Iron0mg
Potassium0mg

Chef’s Secret

Use ham fat to sauté vegetables for bean dishes or greens to impart a deep, smoky, savory base.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lard

1:1

Excellent neutral fat substitute for cooking, less distinct smoky flavor.

Bacon Grease

1:1

Very similar flavor and cooking properties, often interchangeable.

Duck Fat

1:1

Provides rich, savory flavor and high smoke point, but expensive.

Vegetable Oil (with ham hock or smoked ham bones for flavor)

1:1 (oil), add ham hock for flavor base

For just the fat component, but flavor will be missing. Use ham hocks to infuse flavor into a dish.

Buying Guide

Render your own from ham trimmings. Store cooled, strained fat in an airtight container in the fridge.

Flavor Pairings

Beans Collard Greens Cornbread Soups Gravies Fried Potatoes.