Moist, succulent, and brimming with flavor! Slow-cooked over low heat, these pig’s feet become tender, juicy, and absolutely delicious. Time to indulge in some soul food goodness!
Unforgettable Memories
During my upbringing, pig’s feet were reserved for special moments like Christmas or New Year’s gatherings. I fondly recall the joy of being surrounded by loved ones, engaged in lively conversations, while savoring an exquisite meal!
Nowadays, pig’s feet have become a regular staple in my home. These cuts of pork offer exceptional taste at an affordable price, making them an ideal choice for weekday meals. Trust me, this recipe is both simple and packed with flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
With the rise in popularity of nose-to-tail eating, pig’s feet have gained recognition as a great choice for reducing waste and minimizing our environmental impact. On top of that, they offer numerous health benefits due to their collagen content. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, lending themselves well to braising, boiling, barbecuing, smoking, or stewing!
Recipe Ingredients
- Pig’s Feet: Ensure a thorough clean-up, removing any hair before cooking.
- Onion and Garlic: These incredible veggies not only enhance the flavors, but they also provide energy and help fight seasonal colds and flu.
- Green and Red Bell Peppers: Each type of pepper adds a unique flavor layer to the dish, with green peppers offering a slight bitterness and red peppers providing sweetness.
- Celery: While not the star ingredient, celery adds a delightful and distinct flavor.
- White Wine Vinegar: With its mild tanginess, white wine vinegar brightens up the flavors, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
- Seasonings: Brace yourself for an explosion of flavors! Thyme, bay leaves, bouillon powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes come together to create a truly tantalizing experience. For an extra kick, smoked paprika and red pepper flakes are highly recommended.
How to Make Pig’s Feet
Prepare the Pig’s Feet
- Wash the pig’s feet in saltwater, thoroughly scrubbing and rinsing to ensure optimal cleanliness.
- Sauté the Vegetables – Heat a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add cooking oil, onion, garlic, and thyme. Sauté for 2-3 minutes. Then, incorporate the bell peppers and celery, sautéing for an additional minute. (Refer to Photos 1-2)
- The Rest of the Ingredients – Add the pig’s feet, bay leaves, bouillon, paprika, white wine vinegar, and approximately 3 cups of water. Give everything a good stir, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. (Refer to Photo 3)
- Simmer – Cover the pot and place it over medium-high heat. Let it cook for 2-3 hours, occasionally stirring until the pig’s feet reach a tender consistency. (Refer to Photo 4)
- Check Occasionally – While cooking, keep an eye on the pot to ensure the water hasn’t evaporated. If needed, add more water.
Recipe Variations
- In case you don’t have white wine vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with lemon juice. Just remember, this will give the dish a citrusy flavor and a gentler tang compared to vinegar. Balance the flavors by tasting as you add the lemon juice. To achieve the desired taste, you may need to use equal parts lemon juice and water.
- For those who prefer a milder spice level, omit the red pepper flakes. However, for the spice lovers at the table, serve some extra vinegar or hot sauce on the side!
Tips and Tricks
- To ensure thorough cleaning of the pig’s feet, pour hot (not boiling!) water over them. Scrub with approximately three tablespoons of salt, then rinse under running water.
- Don’t worry if the water doesn’t completely cover the ingredients; the pig’s feet will release plenty of juice during cooking.
- Patience is key! This cut requires long, slow cooking. However, trust me, the end result will be well worth the wait!
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparation is crucial for this dish. Allow enough time to thoroughly clean and scrub the pig’s feet with salt. To remove any stray hairs from the skin, briefly singe the meat over an open flame before washing it well.
For a milder taste, consider adding an extra step by soaking the pig’s feet in milk or a light vinegar mixture before beginning the prep work.
Serving and Storage Instructions
This dish is best enjoyed piping hot straight from the cooking pot! Serve it over rice and let the flavorful juices seep into every bite. Alternatively, pair it with some cornbread to soak up all the goodness.
Reheating this dish is a breeze! It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to five days. Just keep in mind that the gelatin may solidify when chilled. Fear not, as it quickly melts when reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
You can also freeze the cooked pig’s feet in a freezer-friendly bag or container for later enjoyment.
What Goes with Pig’s Feet
One of my all-time favorite meals is pig’s feet accompanied by collard greens and candied yams. It truly epitomizes the essence of soul food! For an extra treat, serve some cornbread and beans on the side to delight your guests.
More Incredible Pork Recipes to Try
Looking to explore other tantalizing pork dishes? Here are some recommendations:
- Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
- Easy Smothered Pork Chops
- Southern Soul-Food Chili
- Smoked Pork Belly
In Summary
Whether you reserve it for special occasions or incorporate it into your weekday meal repertoire, pig’s feet will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression as one of your go-to soul foods! If this is your first time exploring the world of pig’s feet, feel free to leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts!
To learn more about Ratingperson, the brand behind this delectable recipe, visit their website: Ratingperson.