Winter is one of the best times of year for bird watching in our backyard. A few years back we decided to add a suet feeder to our selection to hopefully increase the bird varieties. I initially used purchased suet, but then I started making my own. Our birds appear to be quite spoiled now because I had to recently throw away a store-bought version after two weeks, and they finished the homemade version in three days! The ingredients are items that would be found in the good Southern cook's kitchen: peanut butter, cornmeal, oatmeal, flour, sugar, bacon grease, and bird seed. Okay, so maybe the bird seed is in the garage instead of the pantry. I have also been known to pick the chocolate chips out of stale trail mix and throw the dried fruit and nuts in too.
I recommend melting the bacon grease in a large pan, remove from heat, and then add the other ingredients. Mix well. The mixture should have the consistency of cookie dough.
Next, put the suet into a mold or a suet log. I prefer re-using Chinese takeout containers and placing a plastic knife broken in half in the middle to make two cakes. I have also re-used the containers from suet bought at the store.
Cover the containers and place in the freezer for about an hour to set. I prefer using the Chinese takeout containers because they have lids and they stack easily. After the suet is set, it is ready for consumption. Just pop them out of the plastic containers and into the feeder.
Now all you have to do is sit back and wait for the birds to find their snack. This is the part that my cats like. No worries; they are indoor cats.
Backyard Suet
1 c. lard or bacon grease, melted
1/3 c. sugar
1 c. peanut butter
2 c. cornmeal
1 c. flour
2 c. oatmeal
1 c. birdseed
Mix all ingredients in the order listed. Spoon into suet mold. Place in freezer for 1 hour. Remove and store in refrigerator until ready to use. Makes enough to fill 4 square suet containers. Charge camera and keep near window.
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