Pork back fat is making a huge comeback in UK kitchens. This flavorful and versatile fat adds richness and depth to so many dishes. From flaky pastries to crispy roast potatoes, pork back fat can elevate ingredients to new heights.
But where exactly can you source quality pork back fat in the UK? I’ve compiled this complete guide on finding and buying pork fat from British farms and butchers,
What Is Pork Back Fat?
Pork back fat comes from the thick, fatty layers along the back and sides of the pig. This is the most prized fat on the animal due to its high ratio of meaty-tasting fat to connective tissue.
Back fat has a smooth, creamy texture perfect for rendering or cutting into chunks or cubes. The mild, porky flavor melts away when cooked, leaving behind rich mouthfeel and notes of umami.
Benefits Of Cooking With Pork Back Fat
There are several reasons cooks seek out pork back fat:
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Adds moisture, richness, and fall-apart tenderness to braises, stews, soups, and gravies
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Creates flaky layers in pastries like pies, savory tarts, and puff pastry
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Provides the right fat content for charcuterie items like pâté, terrines, and sausages
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Gives a crisp, golden exterior and moist interior to roasted vegetables and potatoes
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Can be used to make lard for the flakiest pie crusts imaginable
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Healthy fat profile with high unsaturated fat content to improve cholesterol
With all these benefits, it’s no wonder pork back fat is a coveted ingredient!
Where To Source Pork Back Fat In The UK
You have several options for sourcing quality pork back fat from British farms and butchers:
Order From Specialty Online Butchers
Online butchers like Farmer’s Choice or Turner & George allow you to order pork back fat online and have it conveniently delivered to your door. The pork fat is from British heritage breed pigs raised on small farms.
Check With Your Local Butcher Shop
Many local independent butchers carry pork back fat sourced from nearby farms. Ask your trusted butcher if they stock pork fat and can get you some fresh. This supports local businesses.
Visit Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are a great place to find small pig or pork producers selling pork fat. You can check the quality and source before buying. Going early in the day means the best selection.
Look For CSFA Assured Pork
Seeking out Certified Sustainable Farm Assured pork ensures the pigs were raised humanely on British farms. The CSFA logo is your guide to ethical pork.
Buying The Right Type Of Pork Fat
There are a few decisions to make when buying pork back fat:
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Quantity – Pork fat is often sold in roughly 1 lb or 1 kg amounts. Buy as much as you think you’ll use within a month or two.
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Fat Layers – Most pork back fat contains 3 distinct layers. The top is firmer, the middle more unctuous. Mixing both creates optimal texture.
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Diced or Cubed – You can buy pork fat pre-cut into cubes or dice, or in 1 thick slab to cut yourself.
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Fresh or Frozen – Fresh is ideal, but frozen pork fat works too if thawed overnight in the fridge before using.
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Heritage or Commercial Breed – Heritage breed pork often has more marbling and flavor.
Storing Pork Fat Properly
To maximize freshness and shelf life of your pork back fat, follow these storage tips:
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Keep fresh pork fat refrigerated and use within 2 weeks for the best flavor.
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Frozen pork back fat can keep 6 months or longer in an airtight container or freezer bag.
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If fat was frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before using. Don’t thaw at room temp.
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If fat has dried out, it can be refreshed by simmering in water for 10 minutes before using.
Time To Cook With Your Pork Fat!
Now that you know where to source amazing pork back fat in the UK, it’s time to start cooking! Here are 5 delicious ways to use pork fat in the kitchen:
1. Pork and Apple Sausage Rolls
Chopped pork back fat gives these classic sausage rolls their flaky, crispy layers. Melted fat keeps the filling moist and tender too.
2. Pork Rillette
Slow cooked pork shoulder and back fat creates this silky, meaty French potted pork spread eaten with crusty bread.
3. Pie Crust with Leaf Lard
Leaf lard rendered from pork back fat makes the flakiest, most buttery pie crust you’ve ever tasted.
4. Pork Fat Roasted Potatoes
Crisp, golden potatoes are cooked in rendered pork fat for rich flavor and crunch.
5. Country Pâté
Puréed pork liver and back fat baked in a terrine with herbs and spices for a rustic, spreadable pâté.
How I Cook Fatback
FAQ
What is another name for pork fatback?
Can you buy pork fat in a supermarket?
What can I use instead of pork back fat for sausage?
Is pork back fat sold by kilo?
Pork Back Fat Sold by the kilo. Pork fat is an essential ingredient if you want to make your own sausages or if you are experimenting with some tasty burgers or meatballs.*When ordering this product, please note that it is sold by weight (X KILO) so le
What is pork back fat?
This unctuous, tasty fat is a favourite of chefs and home cooks alike, prized for its ability to add richness and depth to a range of dishes. From crispy roast potatoes to flaky pastries and hearty stews, pork back fat is the secret weapon that elevates humble ingredients to gourmet status.
Why is pork back fat important?
Pork back fat plays a crucial role in many charcuterie recipes, providing the fat content necessary for successful curing and preserving. Whether making classic French pâté, Italian salami, or British black pudding, pork back fat is often the key ingredient that makes the difference between a mediocre and a truly exceptional product.
Is pork back fat good for charcuterie?
The texture and colour of native breed pork back fat is perfect for making salami and other charcuterie. Pork back fat plays a crucial role in many charcuterie recipes, providing the fat content necessary for successful curing and preserving.