Shmaltz - Chicken Fat and the Tradition We Keep

Shmaltz is more than just chicken fat. For generations, this golden-hued cooking staple has been at the heart of Jewish cuisine, bringing richness and depth to cherished dishes. It’s a symbol of resourcefulness, tradition, and a connection to our ancestors who made every ingredient count. But beyond its history, shmaltz is also a delicious way to elevate your cooking. 

For Jewish cooks, Passover observers, and food lovers exploring the art of traditional cooking, shmaltz is an ingredient that’s as flavorful as it is meaningful. Let's explore its history, uses, and why this simple ingredient deserves a place in your kitchen.

What Exactly is Shmaltz?

Shmaltz is pure rendered chicken fat, traditionally made by slowly heating chicken skin and fat until it melts down, leaving flavorful crispy bits called gribenes. The resulting golden liquid is strained and stored for use in cooking.

Unlike butter or other oils, shmaltz has a unique, savory flavor that enhances a variety of dishes. From matzo ball soup to kugel, it plays a starring role in recipes beloved by Jewish families for generations.

What makes shmaltz truly special isn’t just its taste but how it ties us to the past. For our ancestors, it represented ingenuity. Every part of the chicken was utilized, and shmaltz became a vital cooking ingredient when kosher households avoided using oil on Passover. 

Why You Should Cook with Shmaltz

If you’ve never cooked with shmaltz before, prepare to be amazed by its versatility and flavor. Here’s why this simple ingredient should become a staple in your pantry.

1. Rich, Full-Bodied Flavor

Shmaltz adds unmatched richness to everything it touches. Whether you’re frying veggies, making kugel, or roasting potatoes, it turns ordinary dishes into irresistible creations. For those celebrating Passover, shmaltz can transform matzo brei or enhance your seder meal’s star dishes.

2. A Return to Tradition

When you cook with shmaltz, you’re participating in a culinary tradition that dates back centuries. It’s a way to honor the cooking methods of your ancestors, preserving their wisdom and bringing their spirit into modern kitchens.

3. Perfect for Kosher Cooking

Since it’s free of dairy, shmaltz is an essential fat for kosher kitchens. Use it alongside meat dishes to keep your cooking kosher without sacrificing flavor.

4. Healthier Than You Think

Rich in monounsaturated fats, shmaltz is healthier than commonly believed. While moderation is key, its natural properties make it a flavorful alternative to processed cooking oils and margarine.

How to Use Shmaltz in Your Kitchen

Matzo Ball Soup

A Passover classic, matzo ball soup wouldn’t be the same without shmaltz. Adding it to your matzo ball mix makes them lighter, fluffier, and impossibly flavorful.

Kugel

Use shmaltz in your kugel recipe to give this beloved dish an extra layer of depth and richness. Sweet or savory, your kugel will boast a unique, full-bodied flavor.

Roasted Vegetables

Drizzle shmaltz over root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes before roasting. The result? Perfectly caramelized, flavorful veggies your family will rave about.

Traditional Chopped Liver

Chopped liver relies on shmaltz to achieve its signature silky texture and mouthwatering flavor. Spread it on matzo for an authentic taste of tradition.

Fry with It

Shmaltz is perfect for frying onions, potatoes, or latkes. It brings an extra layer of crispness and a hint of poultry richness to these simple comfort foods.

Making Shmaltz at Home

Interested in making shmaltz from scratch? It’s easier than you think!

Ingredients:

• Chicken skin and fat (ask your butcher)
• A sprinkling of salt

Instructions:

1. Chop the chicken skin and fat into small pieces and place them in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
2. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders and the skin becomes crispy. Add a pinch of salt for flavor.
3. Strain the liquid fat into a clean jar, leaving behind the crispy bits (gribenes).
4. Store your shmaltz in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

Purchase the  KJ Chicken Fat for Passover from Satmar Meats. Their product offers fresh chicken fat prepared for you. 

A Taste of Heritage

Shmaltz isn’t just a cooking ingredient; it’s a gateway to experiencing and preserving tradition. For Jewish cooks, it connects us to the resourcefulness and creativity of our ancestors, who turned humble ingredients into cherished dishes we still enjoy today.

This Passover, whether you make your own shmaltz or use a trusted product like KJ Chicken Fat, try incorporating it into your favorite recipes. You’ll not only create delicious dishes but also deepen your connection to a tradition that has stood the test of time.

Want to Elevate Your Cooking This Passover?

Discover the authentic taste of shmaltz with KJ Chicken Fat for Passover. Bring the flavor of tradition to your table and celebrate this timeless ingredient like never before.