Rendering Lard

There are numerous websites and blog entries on how to render lard.  I've tried to do it a few different ways.  I've done it on the stovetop, in the oven and outside.  Everytime I do it in my home, my honey sleeps in his truck.  :)  He says the smell makes him gag.  I get a bit upset because the smell is perfectly fine for me.  But...Eureka!  I have found a solution that suits us both.  I render the lard in a crockpot out on the front porch.  The porch is enclosed and the dog can't help himself to the fat.  I can't do as much at a time, but it doesn't burn and doesn't have to be watched as closely  as on the stove.

The lard in various stages of cooling.

My "vintage" crockpot.

Crockpots can be picked up at garage sales for next to nothing.  Throw the diced fat into it and go about your day, checking in from time to time. 

Another exciting day on the farm!