Quick Answer
To make bear fat tallow for candles, first gather bear fat and render it in a large pot with a thermometer reaching 180-190°F. Strain the mixture and let it cool, then use a cheesecloth or coffee filter to remove any remaining impurities. Pour the tallow into candle molds and allow it to solidify.
Gathering and Preparing Bear Fat
Gather bear fat from a freshly hunted bear, taking care to remove any excess meat and connective tissue. Cut the fat into small, uniform pieces to ensure even rendering. You’ll need about 5-7 pounds of bear fat to make a decent batch of tallow. Place the fat pieces in a large, heavy-duty pot or Dutch oven, such as a 5-quart Le Creuset or a similar heat-diffusing vessel.
Rendering the Bear Fat
Place the pot over medium-low heat and slowly bring the fat to a temperature of 180-190°F, using a thermometer to monitor the temperature. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching or burning, which can ruin the tallow. This process should take about 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your pot and the heat source. Once the temperature reaches 180-190°F, allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 30 minutes to an hour to ensure complete rendering.
Filtering and Pouring the Tallow
Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use a cheesecloth or coffee filter to strain the tallow into a clean container, discarding any remaining impurities or solids. Pour the tallow into candle molds, making sure to fill them to the top. Allow the tallow to solidify and harden completely, which should take about 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the molds. Once solid, remove the candles from the molds and trim the wicks to the desired length.
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