Render
Fat heat
Cooking in or with fat.
01At a glance
CategoryFat heat
Taste impactNeutral
Texture—
02How to do it
- 1Cut the fatty trim or skin into small, even pieces.
- 2Cook low and slow, starting with a splash of water to prevent scorching.
- 3Let the fat melt out gradually as the solids shrink and crisp.
- 4Strain the liquid fat off the crisp cracklings.
03Doneness & pitfalls
Doneness cues
- Clear, liquid fat has separated and the solids are golden and crisp.
Common mistakes
- High heat browns and burns the fat before it renders.
- Large pieces render unevenly.
- Walking away lets the bottom scorch.
Ingredients it suits· 18