Why Everyone’s Talking About Beef Tallow — And Why You Should Too

wondersous my
May 5
2 min read

In a world overflowing with seed oils, processed fats, and confusing food trends, beef tallow is making a bold and savory comeback. Once a kitchen staple used by generations past, this golden, rendered fat is now being rediscovered by health-conscious eaters, chefs, and clean-living advocates alike. But what exactly is beef tallow — and why is everyone suddenly crazy about it?

What Is Beef Tallow?

Beef tallow is simply rendered beef fat, typically sourced from suet (the fat surrounding the kidneys and loins of cattle). When gently melted and strained, this fat turns into a creamy, shelf-stable cooking oil that was once the gold standard for frying, sautéing, and baking — until vegetable oils pushed it aside in the mid-20th century.

Now? It’s back and better than ever.

The Benefits That Have Everyone Buzzing

1. High Smoke Point

Tallow doesn’t burn easily — it has a high smoke point of around 400°F (204°C). That makes it perfect for frying, roasting, or sautéing without producing harmful compounds.

2. Rich in Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Grass-fed beef tallow is naturally packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K — the kind of nutrients your body needs for hormone balance, immune health, and strong bones.

3. Pure, Natural, and Ancestral

Unlike many processed oils, beef tallow is minimally processed and free from additives. It’s the kind of fat our ancestors ate — and their robust health records say a lot.

4. Supports Skin and Brain Health

Beef tallow is high in saturated fats that are essential for healthy cells and brain function. Some even use tallow in skincare, thanks to its skin-compatible fatty acid profile.

5. Incredible Flavor

Tallow isn’t just healthy — it’s delicious. It adds rich, meaty flavor to anything it touches, from roast vegetables to homemade fries and even pie crusts.

How People Are Using It Today

Cooking oil replacement — Say goodbye to canola and seed oils.
Roasting and frying — Think perfectly crispy potatoes or golden fried eggs.
Homemade skincare — Yes, tallow balms are trending too.
Snacking — Beef tallow “bites” or “cracklings” are crispy, savory treats made from the rendered leftovers — pure carnivore joy.

Final Thoughts

The beef tallow revival isn’t just about nostalgia — it’s about reclaiming a fat that’s natural, nourishing, and rooted in real food traditions. Whether you're a carnivore dieter, a paleo enthusiast, or just someone who wants to cook like your great-grandmother did — it’s time to give tallow a second look.

So, the next time someone asks you what the hype is all about, just smile and toss your veggies in a spoonful of tallow. One bite, and they’ll understand.