Don't waste your fat!!

In the last week, I posted 2 entries about making broth and skimming the fat off the top...

Don't worry. I'm not going to suggest that you eat it or that you render it down into soaps or candles

(although you could)

But why waste it? 

Melt it down in the microwave and add some bird seed. I don't have any measurements, just keep adding until it looks like the bird seed is coated and there isn't a puddle of fat in the bottom of the bowl.

Scoop the fat/birdseed mixture into muffin tins or small bowls, filling them about half way.

Cut about a foot of heavy thread, ribbon or yarn, fold in half (leaving a loop extending from the tin), and place the other end on top of the mixture. I formed mine into a circle to give it more surface area for strength.

Put in a cool place to harden. You can refrigerate it or, if your garage is anything like mine, just put them out there until the fat solidifies.

Pop the little suet muffins out if the tin, and they're ready to hang outside to feed the birds. If they get stuck, just run a little warm water over the back side and they'll come right out.