December 1, 2025
We’re (always) talking fries. But not just any fries, fries finished in beef tallow. If you’ve been hearing more these days about seed oils and a throwback to old-school cooking fats, you’re not alone. The humble fry is heating up headlines as beef tallow makes a flavorful comeback in back-of-house operations, but just because it’s trending doesn’t mean consumers are in the know.1
Once a staple in kitchens, beef tallow is being rediscovered.
Rendered from cattle fat, beef tallow has been used for thousands of years across cultures in cooking, preservation, and household applications; incorporated into food preparation as well as cosmetics, candles, and healing salves.5 During the Middle Ages, it served as a primary cooking fat in Europe and was essential for making soap and lighting homes. Even today, beef tallow is experiencing a resurgence in modern skincare products, valued for its moisturizing and protective properties.
Why the buzz? Flavor and nostalgia.2 Beef tallow brings a rich, savory taste that reminds people of the fries they grew up with. It’s not just about health, it’s about indulgence.3
According to the Datassential Food Profile Report:1
Only 22% of consumers have tried beef tallow.
Just 1% eat it regularly.
But 56% are aware of it.
When consumers were asked why they’d order fries cooked in beef tallow, flavor topped the list, not health benefits.2 And while beef tallow adds a nostalgic twist, crispiness is still king. Whether it’s canola or tallow, if the fry isn’t crispy, it’s not winning hearts.
Interestingly, uncoated fries fried in beef tallow scored higher in taste tests, but only when the menu called it out. So, if you’re going to use beef tallow in your kitchen, say it loud and proud.4
Go thick: Thicker fries stay fluffy inside.
Mind your fryer: Tallow degrades faster with particles and water.
Pair wisely: Rich foods like short ribs or creamy sauces complement tallow fries. Or cut the richness with chimichurri or pickled veggies.
Check out our fries for the perfect pairing with your beef tallow.
Beef tallow fries aren’t just a trend; they’re a flavorful throwback with real growth potential. Menu penetration is still low, but interest is rising. For operators, it’s a chance to stand out. For consumers, it’s a chance to rediscover what fries used to taste like.
So next time you’re craving fries, ask yourself: do you want crispy nostalgia with a side of beefy flavor?
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