Step 1

Place racks in upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 375°. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Create a large well in the center and add buttermilk and ½ cup lard. Gradually work in dry ingredients with your hands until a soft dough forms. It should hold together but be scoopable.

Step 2

Using a ¼-cup measuring cup, scoop dough onto a small baking sheet lightly greased with lard to make 12 portions; they should be touching. Bake biscuits on bottom rack 20 minutes, then transfer to top and bake until golden brown, 7–10 minutes longer.