The present invention relates to a method for preparing an organically functionalized layered double hydroxide which comprises reacting (a) a layered double hydroxide, (b) a triglyceride oil, (c) an enzyme which is capable of catalyzing the hydrolysis of an ester, and (d) water, to produce the organically functionalized layered double hydroxide. The subject invention further reveals a method for preparing an organically functionalized layered double hydroxide which comprises (1) dispersing into an aqueous medium (a) the layered double hydroxide, (b) the triglyceride oil, and (c) the enzyme, (2) allowing the triglyceride oil to hydrolyze into long-chain fatty acids and glycerol to produce a dispersion of the organically functionalized layered double hydroxide; and (3) recovering the organically functionalized layered double hydroxide from the aqueous dispersion.