Tallowed: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'tallow' comes from the Old French 'talon,' which means 'fat' and can be traced back to Latin 'talus.'
• Historically, the term referred specifically to the fat rendered from the flesh of cattle and sheep.

Historical Uses

• Tallowed fats were widely used in the past for making candles before the invention of paraffin wax.
• Prior to the industrial era, tallow was a common cooking fat, especially in poor households.

Cultural Significance

• In 19th-century Europe, tallow candles lit homes and streets, marking the transition from daylight to artificial light.
• Tallow played an important role in traditional soap-making, with recipes dating back to ancient cultures.

Modern Relevance

• Today, while tallow is less common, it has seen a renaissance in artisan soap-making and natural skincare products.
• Some chefs use tallowed fat for frying, appreciating its high smoke point and flavor.

Environmental Impact

• Using tallow in cooking and beauty products can reduce waste from slaughterhouses, contributing to more sustainable practices.
• Tallow from grass-fed animals can also be considered a more eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fats and oils.