On this episode, Zarela and Aarón welcome their first return guest to the show - Anne Mendelson. Anne is an unbelievable resource, a culinary  historian and author who co-wrote three cookbooks with Zarela. This time, they're together to discuss the history and uses of lard. First, Anne guides us through the history of lard's introduction to Mexico, and she even ties it back to their first episode together (#4 - "The Triple Bounty of Squashes") by discussing how squash seeds were one of the only indigenous sources for fat! Then Zarela guides us through two ways to render  lard at home and Aarón shares his foolproof recipe for tamales - with Lard, of course! Plus, Zarela shares early memories of using lard and making butter on the ranch.For more recipes from  Zarela and Aarón, visit zarela.com and chefaaronsanchez.comHeritage Radio Network is a listener supported nonprofit podcast network. Support Cooking in Mexican from A to Z by becoming a member!Cooking in Mexican from A to Z is  produced by HotDish Productions and powered by Simplecast.