Pigs Feet(Trotters)
Pigs feet, or trotters, are slow-cooked until tender, resulting in a rich, gelatinous dish infused with flavors of onions, garlic, peppercorns, and spices. This hearty dish offers a unique taste of traditional comfort food, perfect for those who enjoy savory, flavorful, and tender meat dishes. Ideal for communal gatherings and adventurous eaters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Have the butcher split the pigs feet for you.
- Then scrub each one until super clean.
- Put the pigs feet and all other ingredients in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Cover tightly and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer slowly for 3 to 4 hours or until fork-tender.
- Be prepared to dine!
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ask your butcher to split the pigs' feet, ensuring they're cleaned well before cooking. You can substitute cider vinegar with apple cider for a milder taste. If you prefer less heat, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes. Simmering longer than 4 hours can lead to an even more tender texture, perfect for those who enjoy fall-off-the-bone meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pigs feet with a side of mashed potatoes or cornbread to complement their rich flavor. Pair them with a refreshing Tropical Salad to balance the meal. For a hearty option, consider serving with collard greens or a Wheat Salad. The dish can be garnished with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pigs feet in a pot with a splash of water over low heat, covering to retain moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, but be cautious to not dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pigs Feet(Trotters) contains roughly 334 calories, with 7g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1536mg per serving (67% 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
Can I use frozen pigs feet for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pigs feet. Just ensure they are thoroughly thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. Plan to soak them in cold water for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
What can I serve with pigs feet?
Pigs feet are rich and flavorful, making them ideal for pairing with starchy sides like mashed potatoes or cornbread. You could also serve them alongside a refreshing salad, such as a Tropical Salad, to cut through the richness.
How do I know when the pigs feet are done cooking?
The pigs feet are done cooking when they are fork-tender, meaning a fork can easily pierce the meat. This typically takes about 3 to 4 hours of simmering, depending on the size and freshness of the feet.
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).