What's the Best Substitute for Duck Fat?
Whether you're out of Duck Fat or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Rich, flavorful fat rendered from duck with high smoke point, used in cooking and as a finishing oil In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for duck fat are lard, schmaltz, or other animal fats like bacon fat or beef tallow, depending on the use.
Best Substitutes for Duck Fat
Lard
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- frying
- roasting
- baking
- when you want similar cooking properties
Description
Pork fat with similar high smoke point and cooking properties
Most similar substitute, high smoke point like duck fat
Schmaltz
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- frying
- roasting
- baking
- when you want poultry fat flavor
Description
Chicken fat with similar high smoke point and rich flavor
Chicken fat, similar to duck fat in properties
Bacon Fat
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- frying
- roasting
- baking
- when you want smoky flavor
Description
Rendered bacon fat with smoky flavor and high smoke point
Adds smoky flavor, high smoke point like duck fat
Beef Tallow
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- frying
- roasting
- baking
- when you want beef flavor
Description
Rendered beef fat with high smoke point and rich flavor
Beef fat, high smoke point like duck fat
Chicken Fat
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- frying
- roasting
- baking
- when you want poultry fat
Description
Rendered chicken fat with similar properties to duck fat
Similar to duck fat, both are poultry fats
Vegetable Oil
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- frying
- roasting
- baking
- when you want neutral flavor
Description
Neutral oil with high smoke point but different flavor
Neutral flavor, high smoke point like duck fat
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Duck Fat, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Duck fat adds rich, flavorful fat to dishes
Duck fat can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
Duck fat pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
Duck fat works well in roasting and frying
Duck fat can be used to make confit
Store duck fat in the refrigerator
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications