aaah goose fat… Many recognize that it brings deliciousness to their dishes. Should we mention Sarladaise potatoes, a great classic of our South-West gastronomy, for which we are often asked for the recipe? Should we remember that some people fill the fryer with it to get the best fries possible? It seemed obvious to us to take a quick look here at its virtues and its usefulness.

It was first for her that force-feeding appeared in ancient Egypt (yes it is!). The Egyptians had clearly observed that this fat that birds store to facilitate their migratory flight was very useful… for preserving. Fat is indeed a magnificent preservative for meats. And this is how the fattening of the geese begins (the liver is there and is eaten, but it attracted very little interest at this moment).

You know what comes after, this tradition of feeding and preservation has come down to us. The Périgords often find in their attics “toupines”, varnished stoneware pots, in which the confits were preserved: the fat which covered them served as a lid and protected the meat from the air. After opening, the fat can be stored for 2 to 3 months in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Another solution if you don’t want to clutter your refrigerator: you can make cubes using ice cube trays and place them in the freezer.

Goose fat is a real ally in your cooking for meats and vegetables. Very used fat in the South-West, it resists heat very well, does not darken and gives a delicious flavor to your preparations.

And what about health?

Goose fat is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which classifies it among the good fats because they have protective effects for the cardiovascular system (this is called the “French paradox”). Of course it’s always a question of dosage, it’s not a question of eating it by the spoonful! but it is one of the fats to favor along with olive oil and oilseeds to preserve your health. Spread the word !

It can even be used in soap to provide softness.

Goose fat will undoubtedly remain a staple in our kitchens…