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Pork Head Cheese - A Traditional Delicacy for Holidays

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 4-4.5 hours
Servings: 8-10

Pork head cheese is an iconic dish that brings a touch of tradition to our tables, especially during holidays. This recipe is not just a way to utilize pork meat, but also an opportunity to enjoy moments spent with loved ones around the table. With a combination of simple yet special ingredients, head cheese becomes a delicacy that should not be missing from your festive menu.

Main ingredients:
- ½ pig's head
- Pork offal (kidneys, spleen, heart, tongue)
- Pork leg (about 500 g)
- Turkey liver (300 g)
- Turkey gizzards (300 g)
- Pork rind (500 g)
- 4-5 bay leaves
- 3 tablespoons allspice berries
- 3 tablespoons peppercorns
- 3 tablespoons coriander seeds
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 2 heads of garlic
- Pig stomach or rectum (about 1 kg)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Make sure all ingredients are well washed and cleaned. Cut the pig's head into smaller pieces and the offal into suitable cubes. This will ensure they cook more evenly, which is essential for achieving uniformly cooked head cheese.

Useful tips:
- If possible, choose pork from a trusted supplier to ensure you get a quality product.
- I recommend using a large pot, as all ingredients will take up a lot of space, especially when they start to boil.

Step 2: Boiling the ingredients

Divide the ingredients into separate pots for gentle boiling. Add a handful of salt, 4-5 bay leaves, allspice berries, pepper, and coriander to each pot. Let them simmer slowly for 3-4 hours. It is important not to rush them, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 3: Adding the garlic

About 30 minutes before turning off the heat, add the crushed garlic heads to each pot. The garlic will give the dish an unmistakable taste, adding extra flavor.

Step 4: Preparing the filling

After the ingredients have boiled, remove them from the pots and let them cool slightly. Strain the liquid from each pot and put it back in the pot. Cut all the boiled ingredients into small cubes and season again to taste.

Step 5: Filling the pig stomach

Once all the ingredients are prepared, start filling the pig stomach (or rectum) with the chopped meat mixture. Make sure to add some of the boiling liquid to keep it moist. Tie the stomach well using kitchen twine or a cotton thread.

Step 6: Cooking the head cheese

Place the head cheese in the pot with the boiling broth and keep the heat low. It is essential to stay close to the stove, as there is a risk that the head cheese may burst. Use a toothpick to prick the head cheese, allowing the air to escape. After 10-15 minutes, carefully remove the head cheese onto a platter.

Step 7: Cooling and pressing

Place a wooden board and a weight on top of the head cheese to press it. Leave it to cool and set for a day. This step is essential for achieving a compact and pleasant texture.

Variations:

If you want to personalize your head cheese, you can add spices like paprika or chili for a spicier taste. You can also experiment with different types of meat, depending on your preferences.

Serving suggestion:

Head cheese is usually served with mustard, red onion, or fresh bread. It pairs perfectly with a cold beer or a red wine, which will complement its intense flavor.

Nutritional information:

Pork head cheese is rich in proteins and healthy fats, making it a hearty dish. When consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. A serving of head cheese contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace pork with beef or chicken, but the taste and texture will be different.

2. How long can head cheese be stored?
Head cheese can be kept in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. It can be frozen for a longer period.

3. What other dishes can be served alongside head cheese?
Head cheese pairs excellently with summer salads, pickles, or polenta.

So, don’t hesitate any longer! Put on your apron and prepare this delicious pork head cheese recipe, which will surely add flavor to your festive meals. Savor every bite and enjoy the moments spent with your loved ones!