Dad'S Chitterlings
Dad's Chitterlings offer tender, flavorful, and crispy fried chitterlings infused with lemon and onion, perfect for hearty gatherings and those who enjoy savory Southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and pick the chitterlings thoroughly, removing most of the fat.
- Cut the chitterlings into 5 to 6-inch lengths.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the chitterlings.
- Slice the lemons and onions and add them to the boiling water.
- Boil the chitterlings until tender, approximately 1 to 2 hours.
- Remove the chitterlings from the pot and drain well.
- In a double-layered paper bag, mix the flour, cornmeal, salt, and black pepper.
- Place several pieces of chitterlings into the bag and shake to coat evenly.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot until hot.
- Drop the coated chitterlings into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Lift out the fried chitterlings and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot and enjoy this savory Southern delicacy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider marinating the chitterlings in lemon juice overnight before cooking. If you don't have cornmeal, you can substitute with crushed crackers or bread crumbs for a different texture. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy exterior, and avoid overcrowding the pot for even frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chitterlings hot, garnished with some fresh lemon slices for added zest. They pair well with collard greens, cornbread, or a side of Pickle Beets for a classic Southern meal. For a unique twist, consider serving with a side of Mock Fruit Jam for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chitterlings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or re-fry them briefly in hot oil for that fresh, crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Chitterlings contains roughly 736 calories, with 31g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (227% of the Daily Value), iron (149% of the Daily Value), and calcium (87% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 63g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 can I tell when the chitterlings are done boiling?
The chitterlings are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, but start checking at the one-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
Can I use frozen chitterlings for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chitterlings. Just make sure to thaw them completely and wash them thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe to ensure they are clean and ready to cook.
What can I serve with chitterlings to make a complete meal?
Chitterlings are traditionally served with classic Southern sides like collard greens and cornbread. You can also add a refreshing Apricot Fruit Salad to balance the richness of the dish, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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).