When it comes to cooking oils, tallow might not be the first thing that comes to mind, and it certainly wasn't for us either 5 years ago. How things have changed since then.
For the past 3 years my sister and I (and families) have been on a seed oil free diet, not only do we feel better but we know our bodies are thanking us too. Win win! When it comes to natural ingredients, tallow is a powerhouse that often gets overlooked. Derived from animal fat, tallow has a wide range of benefits that can improve your health and well-being and ultimately led us to creating the nations favourite snack using this ancient fat. Meet our crisps....Talloes!
A Fat with a History
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane, shall we? Picture this: ancient civilizations, long before Instagram influencers decided avocados were the key to happiness. Our ancestors were living off the land, making use of every single part of the animal—wasting nothing. Tallow was their go-to fat. They cooked with it, lit their homes with it, even used it for skin care. It was the Swiss Army knife of the kitchen!
But then, along came the 20th century with its shiny packaging and “newer is better” mentality. We traded in our trusty tallow for processed oils and chemical concoctions that were about as natural as margerine. Talk about a step backwards!
Let's explore some of the benefits of incorporating tallow into your routine.
Rich in Nutrients
Tallow is rich in saturated fats, which—contrary to the mainstream fearmongering—are essential for a well-rounded diet. Packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K, it supports everything from immune function to and hormone regulation/ skin health. These aren’t just letters; they’re the building blocks for healthy skin and a robust immune system.
Excellent for Skin Health
Due to its high concentration of vitamins and antioxidants and its composition that closely resembles the lipids found in human skin, tallow is a fantastic ingredient for skincare. It helps moisturize and nourish the skin, promoting a healthy complexion. Tallow is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Forget those overpriced beauty creams—this stuff does the job without the fancy marketing!
Supports Joint Health
The nutrients found in tallow, such as vitamin D and CLA, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Adding tallow to your diet can support joint health and improve mobility, especially for those suffering from conditions like arthritis.
Boosts Metabolism
CLA, a fatty acid present in tallow, has been shown to help boost metabolism and aid in weight management. By incorporating tallow into your meals, you can potentially support your weight loss goals and improve your overall metabolic health.
Flavour Explosion
Let’s not forget the culinary magic! Tallow has a high smoke point, making it perfect for frying, roasting, and sautéing. Imagine crispy, golden potatoes or a beautifully seared steak—cooked in tallow, they’re simply unbeatable! It adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t replicate with other fats.
In a world filled with trends and quick fixes, tallow stands as a reminder of what real food is all about. It’s nourishing, sustainable, and packed with flavor—a true gem in the kitchen. So, let’s embrace this glorious golden fat and reclaim our diets, our health and our freedom from the clutches of the industrial food system that has brainwashed us into believing that fat is the enemy, all while peddling processed rubbish that does more harm than good. It’s a goddamn tragedy.