Grass-fed beef tallow has been used for generations, long before modern cooking oils became the norm. In recent years, it’s made a strong comeback as people look for more natural, minimally processed fats they can trust.
At its core, grass-fed beef tallow is rendered fat taken from cattle that have been raised on a grass-based diet. The fat comes from suet, which is the hard, nutrient-dense fat found around the kidneys and loins.
How Grass-fed Beef Tallow Is Made?
The process of making grass-fed beef tallow is refreshingly simple. Suet is slowly heated at a low temperature until the fat separates from the connective tissue. The liquid fat is then strained and allowed to cool, where it naturally solidifies.
Because the process relies on gentle heat rather than chemicals or additives, the final product remains pure and stable. When made properly, grass-fed beef tallow has a mild aroma, a creamy colour, and a long shelf life.
The lifestyle of the cattle impacts the quality of the beef tallow that is made, check out how our cattle are raised on our farm in California and Oregon.
Why Grass-fed Makes a Difference
Not all beef fat is created equal. The diet of the animal plays a major role in the quality of the fat, which is why grassfed beef tallow is often preferred over tallow from grain-fed cattle.
Cattle raised on pasture produce fat with a more balanced fatty acid profile, including naturally occurring omega-3s and fat-soluble vitamins. This difference is visible too, grass-fed beef tallow often has a creamier or slightly yellow hue, which reflects the animal’s grass-based diet.
Choosing grass-fed beef tallow also means supporting more traditional farming practices and better traceability from farm to freezer. Learn more about what different beef labels and certifications mean for what you’re eating.
Cooking With Grass-fed Beef Tallow
One of the most popular uses for grass-fed beef tallow is in the kitchen. Thanks to its high smoke point and natural stability, it performs exceptionally well at high temperatures. It’s particularly well suited to frying, roasting, and searing, where other fats can break down or burn.
Tallow adds a rich, savoury depth to food without overpowering flavours, making it a favourite for cooking beef, potatoes, and vegetables. Because it’s free from seed oils and artificial processing, many people choose it as a more traditional alternative to modern vegetable oils.
Check out some different beef recipes to try the next time you don’t know what to cook.
Grass-fed Beef Tallow Beyond the Kitchen
Grass-fed beef tallow isn’t just for cooking. Its fatty acid profile is similar to that of human skin, which is why it has become popular in natural skincare. When used in balms or creams, it absorbs easily and provides deep, long-lasting moisture.
Its simplicity also appeals to those looking to avoid synthetic ingredients. Many people with sensitive skin prefer tallow-based products because they contain fewer irritants and are naturally nourishing.
Is Grass-fed Beef Tallow Healthy?
Grass-fed beef tallow is a natural fat that can absolutely have a place in a balanced diet. It’s minimally processed, free from additives, and stable when heated, which sets it apart from many modern cooking oils.
As with any fat, moderation is key, but grassfed beef tallow offers a straightforward, single-ingredient option for those who value food quality and traditional preparation methods.
How to Store Grass-fed Beef Tallow
When stored correctly, grass-fed beef tallow keeps well for long periods. Because it contains no water, it’s naturally resistant to spoilage. An airtight container stored away from heat and light is ideal, with refrigeration extending its freshness even further.
This long shelf life is one of the reasons tallow has been relied on for generations.
If you’re cooking, exploring traditional food practices, or simply looking for better-quality ingredients, grass-fed beef tallow is a simple and time-tested choice. Contact us today if you are interested in purchasing whole or half beef to stock up your freezer!
