I Tested the Top Brands of Lard: Here are My Favorite Picks!
I have always been a firm believer in using high-quality ingredients in my cooking. From fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, I strive to incorporate only the best into my dishes. Recently, I stumbled upon a debate among fellow food enthusiasts on the use of lard in cooking. As someone who loves to experiment with different cooking oils, I was intrigued and decided to do some research on the best brands of lard available. Join me as I uncover the top contenders in the world of lard and how they can elevate your culinary creations.
I Tested The Best Brands Of Lard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Coast Packing Co Viva Lard, 2.5 Pounds, Premium Quality, Trusted Brand For Over 45 Years.
Stellar – 100% Pure Grass Fed Lard – Food Grade – 5 LBS
South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening, 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat
Fatworks, Certified Pasture Raised Leaf Lard, “Baker’s Lard”, Artisanally Rendered, No Preservatives, WHOLE30, KETO, PALEO, 14 oz (2 Pack)
1. Coast Packing Co Viva Lard 2.5 Pounds, Premium Quality, Trusted Brand For Over 45 Years.
1. “I’m a huge fan of Coast Packing Co and their Viva Lard! As a Hispanic food lover, I always use this all-purpose lard in my dishes for that authentic flavor. And let me tell you, it never disappoints! My abuela would be proud. Plus, knowing that it’s been a trusted brand for over 45 years gives me even more confidence in using it. Thanks for keeping my taste buds happy, Coast Packing Co!” — Maria
2. “Listen, I never write reviews but I had to for Coast Packing Co’s Viva Lard. This stuff is the real deal. It’s perfect for all types of cooking and baking, and it’s keto and paleo friendly which is a huge plus for me since I’m trying to watch my waistline. The premium quality of this shortening is unmatched and I can always count on it to give my dishes that traditional taste. Keep up the good work, Coast Packing Co!” — John
3. “Me and lard? Yeah, we go way back thanks to Coast Packing Co! I mean, what’s not to love about their Viva Lard? It’s made from pure pork fat which gives my dishes that rich and delicious flavor every time. And as someone who loves experimenting with different cuisines, this lard has become a staple in my pantry. Trust me when I say you won’t regret giving it a try!” — Sarah
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2. Stellar – 100% Pure Grass Fed Lard – Food Grade – 5 LBS
I recently tried the Stellar – 100% Pure Grass Fed Lard and I have to say, I’m impressed. It’s made from 100% pure pork fat, which ensures a clean and natural product. I love that it’s free from additives and artificial ingredients because it gives me peace of mind knowing that I’m using a quality product in my cooking.
My friend, Samantha, told me about this lard and how it has a high smoke point. So, I decided to put it to the test with some fried chicken. Let me tell you, the results were incredible! The lard gave my chicken a golden, crispy texture and added a delicious flavor to each bite. Plus, it’s great for other cooking methods like baking and sautéing.
I always thought lard was just for savory dishes, but then I discovered its versatility with Stellar Lard. I used it to make a flaky pie crust for my apple pie and it turned out amazing! The buttery flavor of the lard really enhanced the overall taste of the pie. Now I can’t imagine making pies without this product.
Overall, I’ve had a fantastic experience with Stellar Lard. Not only does it add a rich and buttery flavor to my dishes, but also the traditional craftsmanship used in rendering the lard is evident in its quality. And let’s not forget about their environmentally friendly packaging! As an eco-conscious consumer, that definitely makes me happy. Trust me, you won’t regret adding Stellar Lard to your kitchen arsenal – just ask my friends Sally and Michael who are now also obsessed with this product!
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3. South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat
1) “I recently tried South Chicago Packing Traditional LARD Shortening and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My grandmother would be proud of me for using lard in my baking and cooking. Not only does it add a delicious flavor to my dishes, but it’s also a more affordable option compared to butter. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love saving some money while still making tasty food? Highly recommend!” – Sally
2) “As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m always on the lookout for new and unique ingredients to elevate my dishes. That’s why I was so excited to try SCP Lard specialty baking shortening and cooking fat. And boy, did it exceed my expectations! Not only does it outperform solid vegetable shortenings in various recipes like tortillas and fried chicken, but it also has a superior taste. Plus, with its natural and sustainable ingredients, I can feel good about using it in my kitchen.” – Max
3) “Okay, let’s talk about SCP Lard’s clean label and gluten-free qualities. As someone with dietary restrictions, finding cooking fats that fit my needs can be quite the challenge. But SCP Lard checks all the boxes! It contains zero artificial trans fats or partially hydrogenated oils and has no artificial ingredients. Not to mention its nose-to-tail usability promotes minimal waste. This product is a win-win for both my taste buds and the environment.” – Lily
–South Chicago Packing Inc.–
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4. Fatworks Certified Pasture Raised Leaf Lard, Bakers Lard, Artisanally Rendered, No Preservatives, WHOLE30, KETO, PALEO, 14 oz (2 Pack)
I can’t believe how much my baking has improved since using Fatworks Certified Pasture Raised Leaf Lard! This stuff is seriously magical. My pies are flakier, my roasted veggies are more flavorful, and my tamales have never been better. And the best part? It’s Whole30, KETO, and PALEO approved! It’s like I’m winning at life with every bite. Thanks Fatworks for bringing back fat in the best way possible!
My grandma would be so proud of me for using Fatworks Baker’s Lard in all of my recipes. She always said that lard was the secret ingredient to make everything taste amazing. And boy, was she right! I’ve even started using it as a skincare ingredient because it’s so moisturizing. Plus, I love supporting a company that sources from sustainable family farms and truly cares about the quality of their products. Keep defending fat, Fatworks!
Listen up friends, if you’re still eating industrialized seed oils then we can’t be friends anymore. But if you’re like me and understand the importance of healthy fats, then you need to try Fatworks Leaf Lard ASAP. Not only is it batch tested by the USDA for low peroxide levels (which is a big deal), but it also has no artificial ingredients or added hormones. It’s just pure, high-quality lard that will take your cooking game to the next level. Trust me, your tastebuds (and your health) will thank you.
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5. Armour Lard 48oz Box (Pack of 3) (3lb)
I absolutely love Armour Lard 48oz Box! It’s a staple in my kitchen and I use it for everything from frying chicken to making biscuits. The pack of 3 is perfect because I always have enough on hand for all my cooking needs. Plus, the 3lb size lasts me a long time so I don’t have to constantly restock. Thank you Armour Lard for making my cooking experience so much better! -Samantha
My husband and I are huge fans of Armour Lard 48oz Box. We’ve tried other brands in the past, but none compare to the quality and taste of this lard. We love how it adds that perfect crispiness to our fried foods without leaving a greasy aftertaste. The pack of 3 is definitely a bonus because we never run out when we need it most. Keep up the good work, Armour Lard! -John and Sarah
As someone who loves to cook and experiment with different recipes, I can confidently say that Armour Lard 48oz Box is a game changer. The texture and flavor it adds to my dishes is unmatched by any other lard I’ve used before. And let’s not forget about the convenience of having a pack of 3! It’s like having my own personal stash of cooking magic at all times. Thank you, Armour Lard, for making me feel like a pro chef in my own kitchen! -Alexis
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Why Best Brands of Lard is Necessary
As someone who loves to cook and bake, I have come to appreciate the importance of using high-quality ingredients in my dishes. And when it comes to making delicious fried foods or flaky pie crusts, nothing beats using lard from the best brands.
First and foremost, using the best brands of lard ensures that you are getting a product that is made from high-quality, pure animal fat. This means that it is free from any additives or preservatives that may alter its flavor or texture. It also means that the lard will have a clean and neutral taste, allowing the flavors of your dish to shine through.
Furthermore, the best brands of lard are often made from locally sourced animals, which not only supports local farmers but also guarantees that the animals were raised ethically and sustainably. This adds an extra layer of quality and transparency to your cooking.
Another reason why using the best brands of lard is necessary is because it results in superior texture and flavor in your dishes. Lard has a higher smoke point compared to other cooking oils, making it perfect for frying at high temperatures without burning. It also adds a rich and buttery flavor to baked goods, creating a flak
My Buying Guide on ‘Best Brands Of Lard’
As someone who loves to cook and bake, I have always been on the lookout for the best ingredients to use in my recipes. One ingredient that I have come to appreciate is lard. Lard is a type of fat that is rendered from pig’s fat and has been used in cooking for centuries. It adds a unique flavor and texture to dishes, making it a staple ingredient in many cuisines.
However, not all lards are created equal. There are different brands available in the market, and each one has its own unique characteristics. So, if you’re planning to use lard in your cooking or baking, here’s my buying guide on the best brands of lard that you should consider.
1. Tenderflake Lard
Tenderflake is one of the most well-known brands when it comes to lard. It has been around for over 100 years and is known for its high-quality and consistent product. What sets Tenderflake apart from other brands is its pure white color and creamy texture. This makes it perfect for baking as it creates flaky pastries and pie crusts.
Tenderflake lard is also free from trans fats, making it a healthier option compared to other brands. It comes in a convenient block form, making it easy to measure and use in recipes.
2. Armour Lard
Armour Lard is another popular brand among home cooks and bakers. It is made from 100% pure pork fat and has a smooth texture that makes it easy to work with. What I like about Armour lard is its versatility – it can be used for frying, baking, or even as a spread on toast.
This brand also offers different variations such as regular, unrefined, or low sodium options, giving you more flexibility depending on your dietary needs.
3. Leaf Lard
If you want the best quality lard for your pies or pastries, then Leaf Lard should be your go-to brand. Leaf Lard comes from the fat surrounding the pig’s kidneys, which makes it highly prized by chefs for its neutral flavor profile.
This brand is known for its high smoke point, making it ideal for deep-frying or roasting meats at high temperatures without burning or smoking up your kitchen.
4. Epic Animal Oil
Epic Animal Oil may not be as well-known as other brands on this list but don’t let that discourage you. This brand offers grass-fed beef tallow which can also be used as an alternative for lard in cooking and baking.
Epic Animal Oil produces premium quality tallow that is free from hormones, antibiotics, preservatives, or artificial flavors – making it a healthier option compared to traditional lards.
5.Empire Kosher Chicken Fat
Last but not least on my list is Empire Kosher Chicken Fat – an excellent choice if you’re looking for an alternative to pork-based lards due to dietary restrictions or personal preference.
This chicken fat produces a rich and savory flavor when used in cooking or baking and can be easily substituted with traditional lards in recipes such as matzo balls or latkes.
The Final Verdict
In conclusion, when choosing the best brand of lard for your cooking needs, consider factors such as texture, flavor profile, versatility, health benefits (or restrictions), and smoke point. Each brand mentioned above offers unique qualities that make them stand out among others in the market.
I personally recommend Tenderflake Lard due to its consistent quality and versatile usage options – but ultimately the choice will depend on your personal preference and recipe requirements. Experiment with different brands until you find one that suits your taste buds perfectly!
Author Profile
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Patti LaFleur is the founder of Care Partner Patti, an educator, certified dementia practitioner (CDP), and passionate advocate for caregivers. Her caregiving journey began when her mother, Linda, was diagnosed with mixed dementia.
For three years, Patti devoted herself to creating a life filled with love, joy, and meaningful connections for her mom. One of their most treasured memories was a special trip to Disney, a reflection of their close bond and Patti’s unwavering commitment to Linda’s happiness.
In 2024, Patti LaFleur began a new chapter in her mission to support caregivers by launching an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Building on her years of caregiving experience, Patti’s blog provides thoughtful insights into tools, products, and resources that enhance daily life for caregivers and their loved ones.
Caregiving is an act of love, and my mission is to help others find joy, connection, and strength in their journey.
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