Unrefined pork fat is one of the most underutilized fats in the world. It’s also incredibly potent, with a high concentration of micronutrients and fatty acids. For example, it contains more than double the amount of vitamin A found in a similar amount of beef fat. It’s also an excellent source of vitamin E, copper, selenium, niacin and zinc.
Pork fat is especially beneficial when used in its raw form. However, we don’t always have access to fresh pork fat from our local farmers when preparing recipes at home. In these cases, you can still get great benefits by freezing pork fat for later use. Here are some tips on how to freeze pork fat for future use:
What is pork fat?
Pork fat is basically the layer of fat that covers the pork belly. It’s incredibly high in saturated fat—more than beef fat, duck fat and goose fat. It’s also high in cholesterol and a small amount of sodium. Compared to other cuts of pork, belly has a higher concentration of unsaturated fat and oleic acid.
This makes it a great choice for sautéing and roasting, as it doesn’t burn as easily as other meats. But it doesn’t have much taste, making it less suitable for baking. Belly is also one of the most affordable cuts of pork, making it a great choice for budget-friendly recipes.
How to freeze pork fat
Freeze raw pork fat in a freezer-safe container, like a plastic freezer bag or freezer-friendly plastic container. Just make sure the pork fat doesn’t come in contact with anything else in the container, as it may react with the other ingredients. The fat will solidify when frozen, so you can easily remove or transfer it to another container.
Put the frozen pork fat in the freezer. It can be kept there for up to 12 months. Thaw the pork fat overnight in the fridge before using it as desired. If you’re using pork fat in a recipe that calls for liquid, such as a confection or frosting, let it defrost before using it. Pork fat is high in saturated fat, so it shouldn’t be used in recipes where it will come into contact with other liquid ingredients.
Benefits of freezing pork fat
– Vitamin rich – Pork fat is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D and selenium. Vitamin A helps to maintain healthy immune function and skin, as well as promoting healthy vision. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to maintain triglycerides, the building block of cell membranes, and reduce the oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin D is responsible for strengthening the immune system, regulating calcium absorption, reducing inflammation, and increasing metabolism. Selenium is a mineral that helps to maintain the integrity of cell membranes, thus improving digestion and metabolism.
– Powerful antioxidant – Freezing pork fat can increase its antioxidant properties. Vitamin E decreases the oxidation damage caused by free radicals, while oleic acid prevents fats from becoming rancid and assists with weight loss by increasing metabolism.
– Builds lean muscle mass – If you’re trying to build lean muscle mass while losing weight, freeze pork fat to use in your protein shakes, smoothies and other recipes.
– Improves digestion – Fat is an essential component of many bodily functions, including digestion. When used correctly, fat contributes to a health diet and can improve digestion.
– Prevents illness – Vitamin A is an essential antioxidant that helps to maintain healthy immune function, while vitamin D promotes strong teeth, bones and muscles. Vitamin E protects cell membranes from oxidative damage that can damage health and lead to illness.
– High in protein – Fat is an important source of energy for the body. Fat is also an important component of many bodily functions, including metabolism.
Storage tips for frozen pork fat
– Make sure the pork fat is frozen solid before putting it back in the freezer. If it’s still partially frozen, it will defrost when put back in the freezer and end up unusable.
– Label your freezer bags clearly. This will help you to identify what’s in your freezer and make it easy to find when you need it.
– When storing pork fat at room temperature, make sure it’s kept in a sealed container that prevents it from touching anything else in the container, such as dry beans.
– When freezing pork fat, don’t thaw it in the fridge. Instead, let it thaw in its container at room temperature. This way, it won’t come into contact with other foods in the fridge and spoil.
– When defrosting pork fat, make sure to use it within 3 days.
How to thaw frozen pork fat
Allow frozen pork fat to thaw in a sealed container at room temperature. This will prevent it from touching other foods and spoiling. If you need to use it right away, you can also microwave pork fat on high for 20 seconds until it becomes malleable. This is only recommended when necessary, as it can cause bacteria to grow due to the high heat. Never thaw pork fat in the sink. It can easily come into contact with other food products and get spoiled.
Recipes using frozen pork fat
Fruit Cones – Add a spoonful of pork fat to homemade fruit cones for an extra nutritional boost. It can also be used in candies, ice cream, popsicles and milkshakes. – Add a spoonful of pork fat to homemade fruit cones for an extra nutritional boost. It can also be used in candies, ice cream, popsicles and milkshakes.
Kettle Cooked Rice – Add a spoonful of thawed pork fat to your favorite kind of cooked rice for extra flavor and nutrients. It can also be used in stir-fries, casseroles and soups.
– Add a spoonful of thawed pork fat to your favorite kind of cooked rice for extra flavor and nutrients. It can also be used in stir-fries, casseroles and soups. Stuffed Peppers – Use frozen pork fat in stuffed bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients, and in a recipe that uses frozen vegetables. – Use frozen pork fat in stuffed bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients, and in a recipe that uses frozen vegetables.
Pork in Gravy – Add pork fat when making gravy or soup as it absorbs flavors and adds a creamy texture. It can also be used in pork stir-fries, casseroles and stews.
Conclusion
Freezing pork fat is a great way to save for later use, as it can be kept for up to one year at room temperature and for up to 12 months in the freezer. Thawing it properly is critical to preventing it from spoiling. Pork fat is a great source of vitamins, minerals and protein, so it can be used in a variety of recipes.
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