Pork jelly

Pork jelly is a traditional dish that combines the flavor of meat with the subtle aromas of spices, featuring a gelatinous texture that makes it perfect for enjoying as an appetizer. This simple and delicious recipe is ideal for serving on holidays or festive occasions, bringing a touch of tradition to your table. Let's discover together step by step how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 4-5 hours
Total time: 4-5 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

- 3 pig's feet
- A quarter of a pig's head with meat
- 2 pig's ears
- A pig's tail
- One onion
- One carrot
- 3 bay leaves
- 6-7 allspice berries
- 5-6 coriander seeds
- 4-5 black peppercorns
- Salt and garlic to taste

Brief history:

Pork jelly has deep roots in traditional cuisine, being prepared since ancient times. It was often a way to preserve meat, as well as a method to utilize the less desirable parts of the pig. Over time, it has become a festive dish, appreciated for its rich flavor and unique texture.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by thoroughly cleaning the feet, ears, tail, and head of the pig. It is essential to wash and scrape them well to remove any impurities. Cut the feet in half lengthwise and portion the head into smaller pieces. These steps are important to ensure even boiling and optimal gelling.

2. Cleaning the vegetables:
The onion and carrot should be peeled, washed, and cut in half. These will add flavor to the broth, giving a special taste to the jelly.

3. Boiling the meat:
In a large pot, add all the meat ingredients along with the onion, carrot, bay leaves, allspice, coriander, and pepper. Cover everything with cold water and place the pot over medium heat. It is important to skim off the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear broth. If desired, you can boil in a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time.

4. Slow boiling:
Let it simmer on low heat for 4-5 hours. The meat should become tender and easily separate from the bones. This step is essential to achieve a gelatinous texture, which will enhance the flavor of the jelly.

5. Preparing the meat for serving:
After the meat is boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Remove the bones and cut the meat into small pieces. Arrange these pieces at the bottom of plates or bowls. If you wish, you can also add slices of carrot for a pleasing appearance.

6. Preparing the broth:
In the broth obtained from boiling, add crushed garlic to taste. Here you can adjust the seasoning and play with the flavors. After mixing well, strain the broth to achieve a fine consistency.

7. Assembling the jelly:
Carefully pour the strained broth over the pieces of meat, ensuring they are well covered. Cover the plates or bowls with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

8. Cooling:
Refrigerate everything for a few hours or until the jelly has completely set. It is recommended to let it sit overnight for optimal texture.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the meat: Choose fresh pig's feet with plenty of meat and gelatin, as these are essential for achieving a well-bound jelly.
- Color and flavor: Adding boiled carrot not only brings color but also a sweet taste that complements the flavors of the meat.
- Spices: You can experiment with other spices, such as dill or sweet paprika, to customize the recipe to your taste.
- Serving: Pork jelly is usually served with mustard or horseradish, and for a touch of freshness, add a side of pickled cabbage.

Nutritional benefits:

Pork jelly is rich in protein and collagen, making it an excellent choice for joint health. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals due to the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with beef or poultry, but the cooking time and flavors will vary.

2. What is the best way to store pork jelly?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but make sure it is well covered to prevent drying out.

3. What drinks pair well with pork jelly?
A white wine or an aperitif like tuica or palinca are excellent choices to complement the flavor.

Possible variations:

- Vegetable jelly: You can add various boiled vegetables, such as celery or bell pepper, for a more complex flavor.
- Spicy jelly: Add hot peppers or chili sauce to the broth for a spicier taste.
- Fish jelly: Replace the pork with fish for a lighter and healthier option.

Pork jelly is a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia and tradition to every serving. So, put on an apron, wear a smile, and prepare this delicacy for yourself and your loved ones!