Jellied Pig'S Feet

Prep: 30 min Cook: 360 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Southern

Jellied pig's feet offers rich, savory flavors with tender meat and gelatinous texture, perfect for hearty appetites or traditional cuisine enthusiasts seeking a comforting dish.

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Ingredients

  • 4 lb. pigs feet
  • water
  • 1 Tbsp. salt
  • 6 whole black peppers
  • 1 whole onion with skin
  • 1 clove chopped garlic
  • paprika

Instructions

  1. Burn the skin of pigs feet by holding them over a gas flame, if desired.
  2. Wash the pigs feet well in warm water.
  3. Place the pigs feet in a kettle and add enough water to cover them.
  4. Bring to a boil and skim off any foam.
  5. Lower the heat and simmer slowly for about 5 to 6 hours until the bones fall apart from the meat.
  6. Add chopped garlic, salt, whole black peppers, and sliced onion to the pot.
  7. Strain the mixture and pour into dishes.
  8. Cut the meat into pieces and let stand overnight in a cool place.
  9. Before serving, sprinkle with paprika.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, choose fresh pig's feet and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. If you prefer a less intense flavor, consider using half the amount of black pepper or even substituting with white pepper. Adding a splash of vinegar during cooking can enhance the tanginess. Make sure to skim the foam for a clearer broth. Additionally, the dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated to let the flavors meld.

Serving Suggestions

Jellied pig's feet can be served as an appetizer or main dish, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers. Pair it with a tangy mustard or pickled vegetables for a delightful contrast. This dish also makes an excellent side for a hearty salad or alongside classic Southern sides like coleslaw. It pairs beautifully with Ice Tea, enhancing the overall experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm the jellied pig's feet on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. The dish can also be served cold, straight from the fridge, for a refreshing take.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Jellied Pig'S Feet contains roughly 215 calories, with 11g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (205% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), and iron (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 26g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

215 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.7g 21% DV
Total Fat 9.8g 13% DV
Carbs 40.9g 15% DV
Fiber 26.2g 94% DV
Sugar 7.8g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 297.6mg 13% DV
Potassium 1711.2mg 36% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1847.3mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Calcium 172.4mg 13% DV
Iron 15.9mg 88% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

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

Can I use frozen pig's feet for this recipe?

Yes, frozen pig's feet can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This may take several hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Cooking time should remain the same, but ensure they are tender before serving.

How can I make the dish spicier?

To add spice to your jellied pig's feet, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the garlic. You can also serve with a spicy mustard or hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a kick.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

While this dish is traditionally made with pig's feet, you can explore vegan recipes that use agar-agar or vegetable broth as a gelatin substitute. Replace meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or jackfruit for a similar texture while maintaining a rich flavor.

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).

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