Meat
uncooked cured pork fat.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeHalalKosher
ALSO KNOWN AS
cured pork fat
SERVING
CALORIES
579
PROTEIN
5.7g
CARBS
0.09g
FAT
61.4g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories579kcal—
Protein5.7g11%
Carbohydrates0.09g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat61.4g79%
Saturated fat22.5g113%
Cholesterol68mg23%
Water31.1g—
MINERALS
Sodium505mg22%
Potassium105mg2%
Calcium5.0mg0%
Iron0.39mg2%
Magnesium6.0mg1%
Phosphorus98mg8%
Zinc0.80mg7%
Copper0.04mg4%
Manganese0.01mg0%
Selenium4.7µg9%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A0µg0%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0.20µg1%
Vitamin E0mg0%
Vitamin K0µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.24mg20%
Riboflavin (B2)0.07mg5%
Niacin (B3)1.8mg11%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.23mg5%
Vitamin B60.03mg2%
Folate (B9)1.0µg0%
Vitamin B120.33µg14%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup205g
1 tablespoon12.8g
1 teaspoon4.3g
1 oz28.4g
1 lb453.6g
1 ml0.9g
1 liter866g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓A concentrated source of energy due to its high caloric density.
- ✓Rich in monounsaturated fats, primarily oleic acid, which can support heart health when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- ✓Contains some fat-soluble vitamins, such as Vitamin D, and choline, which is important for brain health and cell function.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Slice paper-thin and serve on warm, crusty bread, allowing the fat to melt slightly to release its flavor.
- 2Dice into small pieces (lardons) and render slowly over low heat to add a rich, savory flavor base to soups, stews, and vegetable dishes.
- 3Use as a barding agent by wrapping it around lean roasts of meat or poultry to keep them moist and flavorful during cooking.
- 4Render the fat completely to create high-quality lard, which has a high smoke point and is excellent for frying or for use in pastries to create a flaky texture.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Wrap tightly in butcher paper or plastic wrap and store in the coldest part of the refrigerator (typically below 40°F or 4°C) for several weeks to months.
- For long-term storage, vacuum-seal the cured fat and freeze it, where it can last for up to a year.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is uncooked cured pork fat healthy?
In moderation, cured pork fat provides a concentrated energy source and is rich in monounsaturated fats like oleic acid, which supports heart health. It also contains Vitamin D and choline, which is essential for brain function. However, due to its high calorie and sodium content from the curing process, it should be consumed sparingly.
How many calories and fat are in cured pork fat?
A 100g serving contains approximately 579 calories and 61.41g of fat. It is a very calorie-dense ingredient, with fat making up the vast majority of its nutritional profile.
Is cured pork fat keto-friendly?
Yes, it is excellent for keto and low-carb diets. With only 0.09g of carbohydrates and over 61g of fat per 100g, it helps individuals meet high-fat macros without adding sugar or carbs to their meals.
How do you use uncooked cured pork fat in cooking?
It is most commonly used to add depth and richness to dishes. You can render it down to use as a cooking oil for sautéing vegetables, add it to pots of beans or greens for flavor, or use it in charcuterie preparations like pâtés and sausages.
Can you eat cured pork fat raw?
Certain types of cured pork fat, such as Italian lardo, are intended to be eaten raw and thinly sliced. However, other types like salt pork or fatback are typically intended to be cooked or rendered. Always check the specific product labeling to ensure it is safe for raw consumption.
Is cured pork fat gluten-free?
Pure cured pork fat is naturally gluten-free. However, some commercially processed versions may use spice blends or curing agents that contain gluten, so it is important to check the ingredient label if you have a sensitivity.
How should I store cured pork fat?
It should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or butcher paper and stored in the refrigerator. Because it is cured with salt, it has a long shelf life and can last for several weeks or even months; it can also be frozen for up to a year without losing quality.
How can I tell if cured pork fat has gone bad?
The most reliable sign of spoilage is a rancid, sour, or unpleasant odor. If the fat develops a slimy texture, shows signs of mold, or turns a dark yellow or greyish color, it should be discarded immediately.
Is cured pork fat halal or kosher?
No, pork and all pork-derived products are strictly forbidden (haram/non-kosher) under Islamic and Jewish dietary laws. Beef suet or vegetable shortening are common substitutes for those following these restrictions.
What does cured pork fat taste like?
It has a very rich, savory, and salty flavor profile. Depending on the curing method, it may also have notes of smoke, herbs like rosemary, or spices like black pepper, providing a deep 'umami' quality to any dish it is added to.
