What is 'barding' in the context of cooking meat?

Barding refers to the technique of wrapping lean cuts of meat with strips of fat, such as bacon or pork fat. This method is used to retain moisture and enhance the flavor of the meat during the cooking process. Lean meats, lacking sufficient natural fat, can benefit significantly from this technique, as the added fat melts during cooking, basting the meat and preventing it from drying out.

The main goal of barding is to create a more succulent and flavorful final dish, making it particularly useful for cooking methods that may otherwise deplete moisture, such as roasting. It is an essential practice for ensuring that lean meats are tender and juicy, enhancing both texture and taste.