Calories in Lard: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Lard is rendered pork fat that has been used in cooking and baking for centuries. It is composed almost entirely of fat with a notable proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids, making its fat profile more balanced than many people assume. Here is a complete breakdown of lard nutrition by serving size.

Calories by serving size:

Lard contains no carbohydrates, protein, or fiber. It does provide a small amount of vitamin D, which is uncommon among cooking fats. Its cholesterol content is moderate compared to butter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a tablespoon of lard?

One tablespoon of lard (about 12.8 grams) contains approximately 115 calories. All of those calories come from fat, with 5 grams of saturated fat and 5.8 grams of monounsaturated fat per tablespoon.

Is lard healthier than butter?

Lard and butter are nutritionally comparable, each providing about 115 calories per tablespoon. Lard has less saturated fat (5 g versus 7.2 g per tablespoon) and more monounsaturated fat than butter. However, butter provides vitamins A and E that lard lacks, so neither is clearly superior overall.

Why is lard making a comeback in cooking?

Lard has regained popularity as research has shifted away from vilifying all saturated fats. Chefs and bakers value lard for producing exceptionally flaky pie crusts, tender biscuits, and crispy fried foods. Its high smoke point of about 370 degrees Fahrenheit (188 degrees Celsius) and neutral flavor also make it practical for everyday cooking.

What is lard best used for in baking?

Lard is prized in baking for creating extremely flaky and tender pastry. It produces superior pie crusts, biscuits, and empanada dough because its fat crystalline structure creates more layers than butter. Many traditional Southern and Latin American baked goods rely on lard as a key ingredient.

How much cholesterol does lard contain?

One tablespoon of lard contains about 12 milligrams of cholesterol, which is significantly less than the 31 milligrams found in a tablespoon of butter. For context, the dietary guidelines suggest limiting cholesterol intake to around 300 milligrams per day, so a tablespoon of lard contributes only about 4 percent of that limit.