Smalec (Lard Spread) with Onion and Apple

Ingredients

• 1 lb Pork Lard
• 1 medium Onion
• 1 medium Apple
• 1 tsp Marjoram
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

1. 1Cut the 1 lb pork lard into 1-inch pieces and place them in a large skillet.
2. 2Heat the skillet over low heat, around 200°F (95°C). Cook until the lard is completely melted and the remaining pieces, called cracklings, are golden brown and crisp, about 30-40 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the golden brown cracklings from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. 3While the lard is rendering, finely chop the 1 medium onion and the 1 medium apple.
4. 4Add the chopped onion and apple to the melted lard in the skillet. Cook over low heat, around 200°F (95°C), until the onion and apple are softened, about 10-15 minutes. You will see them become translucent and tender.
5. 5Stir in the 1 tsp marjoram, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until well combined.
6. 6Carefully pour the hot lard mixture into a heatproof jar or container. Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature until it is no longer steaming, then cover the container and refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours.
7. 7Serve the firm lard spread cold. Top with the reserved cracklings before serving.

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