Remember the days when fast food fries had a certain…
je ne sais quoi?
That rich, savory flavor that seemed to linger on your palate?
Well, get ready for a blast from the past because beef tallow is making a serious comeback, and Steak n Shake is leading the charge!
But why now, and what does it mean for your taste buds?
The Tallow Trend: More Than Just Nostalgia
For decades, vegetable oil reigned supreme in fast food fryers.
However, consumers are increasingly questioning the health implications of seed oils, leading chains to explore alternatives.
According to some, these seed oils, including canola and soybean oil, are causing inflammation, and other health issues.
Is this a valid argument?
The jury is still out, but the shift is undeniable.
As RFK Jr.
states, “Fast Food is a part of American culture.
But that doesnt mean it has to be unhealthy, and that we cant make better choices.”
Beef tallow, the rendered form of beef fat, offers a compelling alternative.
Its high smoke point makes it ideal for frying, and its unique flavor profile is something that vegetable oil simply can’t replicate.
Think crispy texture, a buttery likeness, and an umami taste that’ll have you craving more.
So, what are the main benefits?
- Enhanced Flavor: Beef tallow imparts a richer, more savory flavor to fries.
- High Smoke Point: Ideal for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Perceived Health Benefits: Some research suggests that beef tallow contains beneficial fats.
Steak n Shake Goes All-In
Steak n Shake has officially announced that all of their restaurants nationwide are now serving fries cooked in 100% beef tallow.
This isn’t just a small change; it’s a full-blown commitment to bringing back that classic, craveable flavor.
As of March 2025, you can experience these “RFKd” fries at every location.
According to Chris Ward, chief supply chain officer for Steak n Shake, “Our fries will now be cooked in an authentic way, 100 beef tallow, in order to achieve the highest quality and best taste.” What’s not to love?
To get a sense of Steak n Shake’s offering, check out this video for a behind-the-scenes look:
TheProfessional’s experience at Steak n Shake begins at [44:02].
Other Chains Embracing the Tallow Trend
Steak n Shake isn’t alone in this culinary revival.
Several other chains are also experimenting with or fully embracing beef tallow:
- Portillo’s: This Chicago-based chain uses a beef tallow and vegetable oil blend for its fries and onion rings, enhancing the flavor of their sides.
- Smashburger: Known for its beef-infused french fries, Smashburger cooks its fries in a blend of beef tallow and canola oil.
They even extend the tallow love to their Smash Tots and Brussels sprouts. - Buffalo Wild Wings: BWW uses pure beef shortening in its fryer, meaning you can taste that rich beef flavor in their fries, wings, and even cauliflower wings.
The Health Debate: Tallow vs.
Seed Oils
The switch to beef tallow isn’t solely about taste; it’s also fueled by a growing debate about the health implications of different cooking oils.
RFK Jr.
has been particularly vocal, claiming that seed oils are “poisoning Americans.” While the medical community remains divided, some studies have linked excessive consumption of soybean oil to health issues such as ulcerative colitis.
So, is tallow really healthier?
Well…
Some researchers believe that beef tallow provides heart-healthy benefits due to the presence of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
Additionally, the Mayo Clinic notes that some of the saturated fat in tallow is stearic acid, which may not raise cholesterol levels in the same way as other saturated fats.
But before you go completely wild, remember that moderation is key!
Decoding the Fats: A Simple Breakdown
Confused about all the talk of saturated and unsaturated fats?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Beef Tallow: Mostly saturated fat, but contains beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
- Seed Oils (Canola, Soybean, etc.): Generally consist of unsaturated fats, but often highly processed.
What’s Next for the Tallow Trend?
Will other major chains jump on the tallow bandwagon?
Only time will tell.
But with consumers increasingly seeking out authentic, flavorful experiences and questioning the health impacts of processed foods, the future looks bright for this old-school cooking method.
One thing’s for sure: the fast food landscape is changing, and beef tallow is playing a significant role in shaping its future.
And to further prove that point, here’s a peak at how tallow has been performing since early 2024:
I am sorry, but there is no data to create an AI Chart.
Your Own Tallow-Infused Adventure
Feeling inspired?
Why not try your hand at cooking with beef tallow at home?
Here’s a quick and easy recipe to get you started:
Tallow-Fried Steak Bites
This will give you a bit of steak and shake experience in your own home.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons of beef tallow
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika
Instructions:
- Season the steak cubes with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
- Melt the beef tallow in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak cubes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the steak bites from the skillet and serve immediately.
For an added treat, here’s a quick guide to creating a lemon and peppercorn flavor profile:
Conclusion: A Flavorful Future?
The resurgence of beef tallow in the fast food industry represents more than just a culinary trend; it signifies a shift in consumer preferences and a growing awareness of the ingredients we consume.
With chains like Steak n Shake leading the charge, it’s clear that the demand for authentic, flavorful experiences is on the rise.
So, are you ready to embrace the tallow revolution?
What do you think?
Will the beef tallow trend change how we look at fast food?
Beyond Fries: Other Tallow-Infused Culinary Delights
The beauty of beef tallow extends far beyond just perfectly crispy fries.
Its rich, savory flavor makes it a versatile ingredient for countless dishes.
Think about the possibilities!
From enhancing the richness of savory pastries to adding a depth of flavor to roasted vegetables, tallow can be a game-changer in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into some delicious ideas.
Roasting Vegetables with Tallow: A Game Changer
Tired of bland, boring roasted vegetables?
Tallow can transform even the most humble veggies into culinary masterpieces.
The high smoke point of tallow ensures a perfectly crispy exterior, while its rich flavor infuses the vegetables with a delightful savory taste.
Try roasting potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or carrots with tallow for an unforgettable experience.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Chop your favorite vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss the vegetables with melted beef tallow, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs (rosemary and thyme work particularly well).
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Tallow-Enriched Pastries: A Savory Dream
Imagine flaky, buttery pastries with a savory depth that elevates them to a whole new level.
Adding tallow to your pastry dough can create just that!
Tallow contributes to a richer flavor and a more tender texture.
Consider using it in pie crusts, biscuits, or even savory scones.
The result?
Pastries that are unbelievably flavorful and satisfying.
Level-Up Your Eggs: The Tallow Touch
Yes, even your morning eggs can benefit from the magic of tallow!
Cooking eggs in tallow adds a subtle but noticeable savory flavor that complements the richness of the yolks.
Whether you prefer scrambled, fried, or poached eggs, tallow can elevate your breakfast to a gourmet experience.
Simply melt a small amount of tallow in your pan and cook your eggs as usual.
Prepare for a breakfast that will leave you wanting more!
Exploring Regional Tallow Traditions
Beef tallow isn’t just a modern trend; it has deep roots in culinary traditions around the world.
Many cultures have long appreciated the unique flavor and versatility of tallow in their cooking.
Let’s take a glimpse into some fascinating regional tallow traditions.
- Argentina: Known for its beef culture, Argentina often utilizes beef fat, including tallow, in empanadas and stews.
It adds richness and depth to these hearty dishes. - United Kingdom: Suet, a type of beef fat similar to tallow, has been traditionally used in British cuisine for centuries, particularly in puddings and dumplings.
- Various Indigenous Cultures: Many indigenous communities have historically used animal fats, including tallow, for cooking and preserving food, utilizing every part of the animal.
The Future of Flavor: Tallow and Sustainable Eating
As consumers become increasingly conscious of sustainable food practices, beef tallow presents an interesting opportunity.
By utilizing rendered beef fat, we can reduce food waste and maximize the value of each animal.
This aligns with the growing movement towards nose-to-tail eating, where every part of the animal is used respectfully and intentionally.
The tallow trend represents a shift toward appreciating traditional cooking methods and seeking out authentic flavors.
As more chefs and home cooks explore the possibilities of tallow, we can expect to see even more innovative and delicious creations emerge.
So, embrace the tallow revolution and embark on a flavorful journey that celebrates tradition, sustainability, and the art of delicious cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions About Steak n Shake’s Tallow Fries
What is beef tallow?
Beef tallow is the rendered form of beef fat, used for cooking.
It offers a unique flavor profile and high smoke point.
Why are some restaurants switching to beef tallow?
Beef tallow is seen as a healthier alternative to seed oils, and it provides a richer, more savory flavor compared to vegetable oils.
Which other chains are using beef tallow?
Besides Steak n Shake, chains like Portillo’s, Smashburger, and Buffalo Wild Wings are also using beef tallow or beef fat blends for their fries and other items.
The Future of Fast Food: A Tallow-Infused Revolution
Steak n Shake’s embrace of beef tallow fries highlights a growing consumer demand for authentic, flavorful, and potentially healthier fast food options.
This trend signals a broader shift in the industry towards revisiting traditional cooking methods and prioritizing ingredient quality.
As more chains explore alternatives to seed oils, the tallow revolution could reshape the fast food landscape, offering customers a richer, more satisfying dining experience.
