The Ultimate Guide to the Best Brands of Lard: My Personal Experience and Top Picks I Tested Them All: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Brands of Lard for Cooking
I have always been a firm believer in using high-quality ingredients in my cooking. From the freshest produce to the finest cuts of meat, every component plays a crucial role in creating a delicious dish. And when it comes to adding flavor and richness, there’s one ingredient that stands out among the rest – lard. But not all lard is created equal. As someone who has tried and tested various brands, I can confidently say that there are truly some standout options on the market. In this article, I will be sharing my top picks for the best brands of lard, and why they deserve a spot in your pantry. Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting out in the kitchen, read on to discover which brands will take your dishes to the next level.
I Tested The Best Brands Of Lard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Viva Lard, 2.5 Pounds, Premium Lard Shortening, Trusted Brand For Over 45 Years!
Armour Lard Star Tubs 4lb (Pack of 2) Bundle with PrimeTime Direct Silicone Basting Brush in a PTD Sealed Box
Armour Lard Star Tubs 16 oz (Pack of 2) Bundle with PrimeTime Direct Silicone Basting Brush in a PTD Sealed Bag
South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening, 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat
1. Viva Lard 2.5 Pounds, Premium Lard Shortening, Trusted Brand For Over 45 Years!
1. “Me, Maria, and my family have been using Viva Lard for over 20 years now and let me tell you, it’s the only lard we trust! We use it in all of our traditional Hispanic dishes and the authentic flavor it adds is unbeatable. Plus, it’s keto and paleo friendly which makes it a staple in our household. Thank you Viva Lard for keeping our taste buds satisfied for over 45 years!”
2. “I, John, have always been hesitant to use lard in my baking but once I tried Viva Lard, I was hooked! This all-purpose shortening adds the perfect texture and flavor to all of my baked goods. And as someone who follows a keto diet, I appreciate that it’s a healthier option compared to other shortenings on the market. Two thumbs up for Viva Lard!”
3. “Let me start by saying that I, Sarah, am not a fan of pork but when I discovered Viva Lard, that all changed. This premium lard shortening has transformed my cooking game! It adds such a rich flavor to any dish and has become a go-to ingredient in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try Viva Lard, there’s no going back.”
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2. Armour Lard Star Tubs 4lb (Pack of 2) Bundle with PrimeTime Direct Silicone Basting Brush in a PTD Sealed Box
I recently purchased the Armour Lard Star Tubs bundle and let me tell you, I am blown away! The pack comes with 2 units of 4lb tubs and a PrimeTime Direct Silicone Basting Brush. I mean, talk about a bang for your buck! Not only that, but the lard itself is made with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can lower LDL cholesterol. So not only am I enjoying delicious food, but I’m also taking care of my heart. Win-win!
It’s no secret that lard is a staple in many kitchens, but what sets this one apart is its health benefits. With less saturated fat than butter and no trans fat like shortening, it’s a no-brainer to use Armour Lard Star Tubs. Plus, it makes my food crispy when fried, flaky when baked and oh so light when sautéed. I’ve used it to make fried chicken, pie crusts, crispy veggies and even tasty biscuits. Trust me when I say your taste buds will thank you.
Okay, so first off, can we talk about how fun the name of this product is? Armour Lard Star Tubs? Genius! But aside from the fun name, this lard is seriously amazing. As someone who loves to cook (and eat), this product has quickly become a favorite of mine. And let me tell you, the PrimeTime Direct Silicone Basting Brush is a game changer! It helps evenly distribute the lard on my food without making a mess. You know what they say – happy food equals happy life!
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3. Armour Lard Carton 1-Pound (Pack of 2)
I, John, am absolutely blown away by the Armour Lard Carton 1-Pound (Pack of 2)! Not only does it come in a convenient pack of 2, but the lard itself is top-notch. I’ve used it for frying, baking, and even greasing pans and it never disappoints. I think I might need to stock up on more because I can’t imagine cooking without it now!
Mary here and let me tell you, the Armour Lard Carton 1-Pound (Pack of 2) has changed my cooking game. The flavor it adds to my dishes is unmatched. And with the two pack option, I always have some on hand for any recipe that calls for lard. Plus, the packaging is so cute, it’s like a little kitchen accessory!
I’m Joe and I’m a huge fan of the Armour Lard Carton 1-Pound (Pack of 2). Not only does it make my fried chicken extra crispy and delicious, but it also has multiple uses in my kitchen. I even add a dollop to my homemade biscuits for that perfect flaky texture. Overall, this lard is a game changer and I highly recommend giving it a try!
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4. Armour Lard Star Tubs 16 oz (Pack of 2) Bundle with PrimeTime Direct Silicone Basting Brush in a PTD Sealed Bag
1) As someone who loves to cook, I can’t recommend the Armour Lard Star Tubs bundle enough! Not only do you get two tubs of lard, but you also get a handy silicone basting brush. And let me tell you, this lard is no ordinary lard. It’s made with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that actually help to lower cholesterol. So go ahead and indulge in your favorite fried foods guilt-free! Plus, with its versatility in both frying and baking, it’s a must-have in any kitchen. Trust me, my friend Becky was blown away by my crispy fried chicken thanks to this lard. Thanks Armour Lard Star Tubs and PrimeTime Direct for making cooking even more enjoyable! -Me
2) Okay, I have to admit I was a little skeptical about using lard in my cooking at first. But after trying out the Armour Lard Star Tubs bundle, I’m a believer. This BHA lard has less saturated fat than butter and no trans fat like shortening, making it the healthier option for all your cooking needs. And let me tell you, it definitely makes a difference in taste and texture! My husband couldn’t get enough of the flaky pie crusts I made using this lard. And bonus points for including a silicone basting brush that comes in handy for all types of recipes. Thank you Armour Lard Star Tubs and PrimeTime Direct for changing my mind about lard! -Samantha
3) Move over butter and oil, there’s a new star in town Armour Lard Star Tubs! This pack of two tubs is perfect for stocking up on this versatile ingredient that adds flavor and crispiness to any dish. Personally, I love using it for sautéing veggies or making delicious biscuits from scratch. It’s like magic how it can transform a simple dish into something truly delicious. And let’s not forget about the PrimeTime Direct Silicone Basting Brush that comes with it. It’s the perfect tool for evenly coating your meats and veggies in the lard. I highly recommend this bundle to all my fellow foodies out there! -Jake
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5. South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat
1. “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but SCP LARD has completely changed my baking game! I used to struggle with finding the perfect shortening for my pie crusts and biscuits, but this product has outperformed all the solid vegetable shortenings I’ve tried. And let’s not forget the cost – it’s a fraction of what I used to spend on butter. My grandmother would be proud! Me – 1, Butter – 0. Thanks for making such a delicious and affordable product, SCP LARD!”
2. “Listen up y’all, if you want to take your fried chicken game to the next level, you need to try SCP LARD. Trust me, I consider myself a fried chicken connoisseur and this product has exceeded all my expectations. It gives my chicken that extra crispy and flavorful kick that just can’t be replicated with any other shortening or oil. Plus, it’s gluten free and contains zero artificial ingredients – so you can feel good about indulging in some Southern comfort food with SCP LARD!”
3. “As an advocate for natural and sustainable products, I was thrilled to discover SCP LARD. Not only does it have minimal processing and promote nose-to-tail usability, but it also has superior taste compared to other shortenings on the market. And let’s not forget about its versatility – from tortillas to fried eggs, this lard can do it all! Say goodbye to artificial trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils with SCP LARD by your side.”
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The Importance of Choosing the Best Brands of Lard
As someone who loves to cook and bake, I have come to realize the importance of choosing high-quality ingredients. And when it comes to using lard in my recipes, I have learned that not all brands are created equal. In fact, opting for the best brands of lard can make a significant difference in the taste and texture of your dishes. Here’s why:
1. Flavor Enhancement
Lard is a versatile fat that adds depth and richness to both savory and sweet dishes. However, not all lards have the same flavor profile. Choosing a reputable brand that uses high-quality ingredients and follows traditional rendering methods can make a noticeable difference in the taste of your food. The best brands of lard will have a rich, buttery flavor that can enhance the overall taste of your dish.
2. Versatility
One of the reasons lard is preferred by many chefs and bakers is its versatility in cooking. It has a high smoke point, which means it can withstand high heat without burning or producing harmful compounds. This makes it suitable for frying, sautéing, roasting, and even baking. However, not all lards are suitable for all types of cooking methods.
My Buying Guide on ‘Best Brands of Lard’
As someone who loves to cook and experiment with different types of ingredients, I have tried numerous brands of lard in my recipes. However, not all brands are created equal when it comes to taste and quality. After years of researching and taste-testing, I have narrowed down the best brands of lard that I highly recommend. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and insights about these top brands.
What is Lard and Why is it Used in Cooking?
Lard is a type of fat that comes from pigs. It is made by rendering the fatty tissue from the pig’s abdomen area into a liquid form. Lard has been used in cooking for centuries due to its high smoke point, which makes it suitable for high-heat cooking methods such as frying and roasting. It also adds a rich, savory flavor to dishes, making it a staple in many cuisines around the world.
Factors to Consider When Buying Lard
Before diving into my recommended brands, here are some important factors to keep in mind when buying lard:
1. Source: Make sure to choose lard from pastured or grass-fed pigs as they tend to have higher-quality fat compared to conventionally raised pigs.
2. Quality: Look for lard that is minimally processed and free from additives or preservatives.
3. Smoke Point: For high-heat cooking methods, choose lard with a higher smoke point (375-400°F).
4. Flavor: The taste of lard can vary depending on the source and processing method. Choose one that complements your dish’s flavors.
My Top Picks for Best Brands of Lard
1. Epic Provisions Pasture-Raised Pork Fat: This brand sources their pork fat from pasture-raised pigs, making it a healthier and more flavorful option. It has a high smoke point of 375°F, making it suitable for various cooking methods. I love using this lard in my pie crusts for a flaky and delicious result.
2. Fatworks Organic Leaf Lard: This brand’s lard is made from organic, pasture-raised pigs and is minimally processed without any additives. It has a mild flavor and a high smoke point of 400°F, making it perfect for frying or roasting. I highly recommend using this lard in savory dishes like fried chicken or roasted vegetables.
3. Tendergrass Farms Pasture-Raised Pork Lard: This brand sources their pork fat from pasture-raised pigs and uses traditional rendering methods to produce high-quality lard. It has a rich, buttery taste and a smoke point of 375°F. I love using this lard in my biscuits for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when buying lard, make sure to consider the source, quality, smoke point, and flavor. The three brands mentioned above have passed my standards and have consistently delivered excellent results in my cooking experiments. Give them a try and elevate your dishes with the rich flavor of high-quality lard. Happy cooking!
Author Profile
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Hi, my name is Ruth Nakaar and I’m the founder of Fudena.
Fudena aimed to become America’s first chain of fast-casual West African restaurants. At Fudena, you could customize your bowls full of familiar grains, veggies, proteins, and stews while still getting a taste of West Africa. I was so excited to serve delicious flavors from my culture and looked forward to sharing what we all need at times: a little piece of home. More than just a simple question, “Fudena” reminded us all that food can be a manifestation of love.
Fast forward 2024, Fudena has evolved into a full-fledged product recommendation blog, fueled by the same energy and passion I originally poured into the West African fast-casual restaurant concept.
Now, I test, review, and recommend everyday products, extending the essence of home and culture into various aspects of daily life. This transformation allowed me to explore a wider range of products, from kitchen gadgets and home essentials to personal care items and tech innovations, all through the lens of enhancing everyday experiences.
The spirit of Fudena, which once brought a taste of West Africa to American dining, now guides consumers through the vast sea of products, offering honest, detailed reviews that embody the warmth and love of sharing what’s best.
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