Fatback Seasoning
Fatback seasoning is a rich, savory condiment or cooking fat base made from rendered pork fatback, often infused with herbs, garlic, and spices. It originates from Southern United States cuisine, particularly in soul food and Cajun/Creole cooking, where it's used to add deep flavor to vegetables, beans, and stews. The dish is a staple in traditional cooking for its ability to enhance umami and provide a hearty, comforting taste.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Fatback seasoning is extremely high in fat, primarily saturated fat, with minimal carbs or protein. It provides a concentrated source of calories and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin D and choline, but it's calorie-dense, with a rough ballpark of 100-150 calories per tablespoon serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbs | 0 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg |
| Choline | 10 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin K | 1.5 mcg |
| Selenium | 0.3 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 5 mg |
| Zinc | 0.1 mg |
| Iron | 0.1 mg |
Per 1 tablespoon (14 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, fatback seasoning is a key ingredient in many African American and Southern recipes, representing resourceful cooking from times when meat was scarce. Nutritionally, while high in saturated fat, it's valued for its role in making nutrient-poor foods like greens more palatable and calorie-rich, aiding in satiety.
