National Lard Day

A happy chef in a clean, white apron frying up a delectable dish in a retro-style kitchen reminiscent of the 1950s.. — National lard day illustration

Hey there, lard lovers! Get ready to celebrate National Lard Day, a truly greasy holiday that will make your taste buds tingle and your arteries shudder. Whether you adore this slippery substance or you just can't resist the temptation of a deliciously deep-fried treat, National Lard Day is the perfect excuse to embrace the fatty and fabulous world of lard.

When is Lard Day?

It's national lard day on the 12th December.

The Origins of National Lard Day

Did you know that lard has been used in cooking for thousands of years? This glorious animal fat has played a significant role in various cuisines around the world, adding flavor and moisture to dishes like no other. However, the origins of National Lard Day are a bit hazy. It seems that dedicated lard enthusiasts, fueled by their love for everything fried and decadent, came together to create a day solely dedicated to honoring the golden and often underappreciated lard.

Whether it was a group of foodies or a secret society of deep-fry enthusiasts, National Lard Day has gained popularity over the years, with people gathering to celebrate the joys of lard-infused delicacies and indulge in the guiltiest of pleasures.

History behind the term 'Lard'

700 AD

Early Origins

Lard, derived from the Latin term 'laridum', has a long and rich history dating back to the 8th century. It was initially introduced by the Moors, who brought it to the Iberian Peninsula. Lard was renowned for its superior cooking properties and became a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

1500s

Exploration and Expansion

During the Age of Exploration, European sailors began venturing to new lands, bringing along lard as part of their supplies. Its high smoke point and long shelf life made it an ideal choice for preserving food on long voyages. As a result, lard spread across the globe and became integral to the culinary traditions of various cultures.

1800s

Industrial Revolution and Process Enhancements

The Industrial Revolution marked a turning point in lard production. The introduction of machinery and industrial processes significantly increased production efficiency. With the rise of large-scale commercial farming, lard became more accessible and affordable to the masses, making it a common ingredient in households.

Mid-20th Century

Decline and Revival

In the mid-20th century, lard faced a decline in popularity due to health concerns related to saturated fats. It was gradually replaced by alternative cooking oils. However, in recent years, there has been a revival of interest in traditional cooking methods and flavors, leading to a resurgence in the use of lard. It is now valued for its unique taste and ability to enhance the texture of baked goods.

Present Day

Rediscovering Lard's Benefits

Today, lard has gained recognition for its suitability in various cooking techniques, including frying, baking, and sautéing. While often associated with comfort foods and traditional recipes, its culinary versatility extends to modern and innovative dishes. Lard lovers appreciate its ability to create flaky pie crusts, crispy fried foods, and impart a distinct richness to recipes. It has also become popular among chefs striving to highlight local and sustainable ingredients.

Did you know?

Did you know that lard was once used as a beauty treatment? Some people in the past believed that applying lard to their skin would give them a radiant and youthful glow. Talk about taking 'beauty sleep' to a whole new level!