Ralph,

Here's the short version.  Until fat and cholesterol concerns ruined
everything, "drippings" were the main seasoning for veggies and gravies in
many households.  My mom learned to cook on a wood range out in the country,
but I think the practice was pretty pervasive at least in this part of the
country.  BTW - a lot of the time her can was in the fridge instead of on
the stove.

Arkie Cuz