Jellied meat

Pork jelly – a classic, tasty, and refreshing appetizer

Pork jelly, also known as piftie, is an appetizer that brings back many childhood memories, often prepared for festive meals or on chilly winter days. However, it is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in any season, even in summer, thanks to its slightly gelatinous texture and intense flavor. This recipe combines tender meat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, transforming it into a delicacy that can delight any table. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

- 2 pork trotters (approximately 1 kg)
- ½ pig's head with ear
- 4-5 carrots
- 700 g lean pork (preferably thigh)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 head of garlic
- Peppercorns (approximately 10-15)
- 3 cubes of Knorr smoked bacon (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- 1 packet of gelatin (12 sheets/packet)
- Water (approximately 3 liters)
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)
- Sweet paprika (for garnish)

Preparing the jelly:

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by thoroughly washing the pork trotters and pig's head. Place them in a large pot and add water to cover them completely. Put the pot on medium heat and bring the water to a boil.

Step 2: Seasoning
Once the water starts to boil, add the whole onion, the carrots cut into large pieces, the peppercorns, and salt to taste. It is important not to add all the salt at once but to adjust it as you taste the broth.

Step 3: Boiling the meat
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 4 hours. During the boiling, do not forget to skim the soup to remove impurities. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and appetizing jelly.

Step 4: Adding garlic and gelatin
After 4 hours, when the meat is well cooked and tender, add the crushed garlic and the packet of gelatin. Mix well to ensure that the gelatin dissolves completely. Let it boil for another 10 minutes, then turn off the heat.

Step 5: Straining and portioning
Use a fine sieve to strain the broth, eliminating all impurities and large pieces of meat and vegetables. While the broth cools, carefully pick the meat from the pot and cut it into small pieces.

Step 6: Assembling the dish
Put a little of the chopped meat into each bowl or small dish. Pour the strained broth over the meat, leaving a little space at the top to allow it to swell.

Step 7: Cooling
Let the dish cool at room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator. It is ideal to let it cool for at least 4-6 hours (or even overnight) to set well.

Step 8: Decorating and serving
When the jelly is well set, you can decorate it with sweet paprika and fresh parsley leaves. This detail not only adds an appealing look but also an extra layer of flavor.

Practical tips:

- If you want to intensify the flavor of the jelly, you can add other spices such as bay leaves or even a splash of vinegar for a tangy taste.
- It is important to choose quality meat, as the texture and flavor of the jelly depend heavily on this ingredient.
- Gelatin is essential for achieving a firm jelly, but if you prefer a dish with a softer texture, you can reduce the amount of gelatin.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This pork jelly recipe is rich in protein and contains essential nutrients from meat, such as B vitamins, zinc, and iron. Although it is a delicious dish, it is wise to keep an eye on the amount of salt and fats. A serving (approximately 150g) contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can experiment with chicken or turkey, but be careful to adjust the cooking time as they cook faster.

2. How can I keep the jelly longer?
If you want to keep it longer, make sure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week.

3. What can I serve with the jelly?
The jelly pairs wonderfully with a cold drink, such as beer or dry white wine. You can also serve it with fresh bread or mustard for a contrast of flavors.

Pork jelly is more than just an appetizer; it is a recipe that brings people together, evoking memories and traditions. It is perfect for enjoying in the company of loved ones, at a festive meal, or simply when you want to indulge in something truly delicious. So, don’t hesitate to try the recipe, personalize it, and enjoy every bite!