Chitlens
Savory chitlens cooked with onions, vinegar, and spices create a hearty dish with bold flavors, perfect for those who enjoy rich, traditional meat recipes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill a large basin with cold water.
- Drop in chitlens and soak for 30 minutes.
- Drain off water.
- With a sharp paring knife, pull off fat under running water and discard the fat from the chitlens.
- Rinse the meat again with cold running water and let soak for 1 hour, changing the water several times.
- Rinse the meat again under cold running water and place in a large Dutch oven or crockpot.
- Cover with water; add onion, vinegar, hot pepper pod, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil and reduce heat.
- Cover and simmer for 3 hours or until chitlens are fork-tender.
- Cut into small pieces before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider adding some chopped garlic or bay leaves while simmering. If chitlens are difficult to find, you can substitute with pork belly or other fatty cuts of pork. Be sure to clean the chitlens thoroughly to ensure a pleasant taste. Adjust vinegar and pepper to your preference for a tangier or spicier dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chitlens with a side of cornbread or collard greens for a classic Southern meal. They also pair well with hot sauce for added spice. Consider preparing a fresh salad, such as Alison'S Fast, Fun And Healthy Pasta Salad, to complement the richness of the chitlens. Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chitlens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pot on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chitlens contains roughly 294 calories, with 3g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when chitlens are fully cooked?
Chitlens are done when they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 3 hours of simmering. You can test their doneness by trying to pierce them with a fork; they should feel tender without resistance.
Can I freeze chitlens after cooking?
Yes, cooked chitlens freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What are some good side dishes to serve with chitlens?
Chitlens are traditionally served with hearty sides like cornbread, collard greens, or fried green tomatoes. You can also serve them with a light salad, such as Nectarine Pineapple Conserves, to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).