Wooden cutting board with round bread items on a wooden surface

Tallow and thyme crackers

Slow-baked crackers with a clean, savoury depth from our own tallow

Make crisp tallow crackers with thyme using simple ingredients. A traditional recipe with rich, savoury depth—ideal for cheese boards and small bites.
Bowl of flour, glass of water, and wooden cutting board with salt and herbs on a checkered tablecloth.
These have became a year round favourite in our house for a quick snack with butter and cheese or enjoyed with charcuterie and chutney.

Ingredients

  • 200g plain flour
  • 50g rendered beef tallow (soft, not melted)
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1–2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 80–100ml cold water

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan 160°C). Line a baking tray.
  2. In a bowl, combine the flour, salt and thyme.
  3. Rub the tallow into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a firm dough forms. Do not overwork.
  5. Roll the dough out very thinly on a lightly floured surface (the thinner the better for crispness).
  6. Cut into rounds or rustic shapes and place on the tray. Prick lightly with a fork.
  7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp.
  8. Cool on a wire rack — they will firm up further as they cool.