Pig's Feet

Pig's Feet Recipe from Lithuania - Ingredients: pig's feet, water, onion, bay leaf, salt, peppercorns

Region / culture: Lithuania | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 2-3 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pig's feet, also known as trotters, are a popular dish in many cultures around the world. This recipe for pig's feet is a classic preparation that results in a flavorful and tender dish that is perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course.

History

Pig's feet have been a staple in many cuisines for centuries. They are often used in traditional dishes such as soups, stews, and terrines. In some cultures, pig's feet are considered a delicacy and are served on special occasions or holidays.

Ingredients

2 pig's feet, quartered
2 qt (1.89 liter) water
1 large onion
1 bay leaf
1 tsp salt
3 peppercorns

How to prepare

Singeing and washing the feet.
Placing the feet in a pot with other ingredients.
Bringing the mixture to a boil, then simmering slowly for about 2 to 3 hours or until the meat separates from the bones.
Reducing the liquid to approximately 0.5 of the original quantity.
Straining the liquid into a large bowl or mold.
Separating the meat from the bones and discarding the bones.
Cutting the meat into small pieces and adding it to the liquid.
Refrigerating the mixture until it congeals.
Removing the fat from the surface.
Inverting the mixture onto a serving plate.
Slicing and serving it cold with wedges of lemon or with prepared horseradish or mustard.

Variations

Add herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic for additional flavor.
Serve the pig's feet with a tangy sauce or salsa for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to singe and wash the pig's feet thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities.

- Simmer the pig's feet slowly to ensure that the meat becomes tender and falls off the bones easily.

- Refrigerate the mixture until it congeals to allow the flavors to meld together and the fat to rise to the surface for easy removal.

Serving Suggestions

Pig's feet can be served cold with wedges of lemon or with prepared horseradish or mustard. They can also be served as a main course with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the pig's feet slowly to ensure that the meat becomes tender and falls off the bones easily.

- Refrigerate the mixture until it congeals to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Pork hocks or shanks can be used as a substitute for pig's feet in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Pig's feet can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pig's feet on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair pig's feet with a light and crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover pig's feet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the pig's feet in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of pig's feet contains approximately 200-300 calories, depending on the size of the portion.

Carbohydrates

Pig's feet are low in carbohydrates, making them a good option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

Pig's feet are high in fats, particularly saturated fats. It is important to consume them in moderation to maintain a healthy diet.

Proteins

Pig's feet are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Pig's feet are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Pig's feet may contain allergens such as gluten and soy, depending on the preparation method and ingredients used.

Summary

Pig's feet are a flavorful and nutritious dish that is high in protein and vitamins. However, they are also high in fats and should be consumed in moderation.

Summary

Pig's feet are a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. This recipe results in tender and flavorful pig's feet that are perfect for serving cold with lemon wedges or horseradish. Enjoy this classic dish with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Pig's Feet. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside. I had always loved helping my grandmother in the kitchen, watching her cook up delicious meals with ease. But when she pulled out a pair of pig's feet from the pantry, I was both intrigued and a little bit hesitant.

My grandmother explained to me that pig's feet were a traditional dish in many cultures, known for their rich flavor and tender texture. She told me that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. As she started to prepare the dish, I watched in awe as she expertly cleaned and seasoned the pig's feet, adding a mix of herbs and spices that filled the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma.

As the pig's feet simmered away on the stove, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood, of learning to cook from her mother and grandmother in the same kitchen where we stood. She spoke of the importance of passing down family recipes, of preserving our culinary heritage for future generations to enjoy.

When the dish was finally ready, my grandmother served up a plate of tender pig's feet, along with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and buttery cornbread. I hesitantly took a bite, unsure of what to expect. But as soon as the rich, savory flavor hit my taste buds, I was hooked. The pig's feet were unlike anything I had ever tasted before, a true comfort food that warmed me from the inside out.

From that day on, I knew that I had to learn how to make pig's feet myself. I watched my grandmother closely as she cooked, taking mental notes of each step and ingredient. I asked her questions, eager to absorb every bit of knowledge she had to offer. And slowly but surely, I began to make pig's feet on my own, perfecting the recipe with each batch.

Over the years, I have made pig's feet for family gatherings, special occasions, and quiet Sunday dinners. Each time I cook up a pot of pig's feet, I am transported back to that moment in my grandmother's kitchen, watching in awe as she worked her magic. And I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the culinary traditions that have been passed down to me, connecting me to my family's past and shaping my future in the kitchen.

As I sit here now, writing this story down for future generations to read, I can't help but smile at the thought of my own grandchildren one day cooking up a batch of pig's feet in their own kitchens, carrying on the tradition that I have worked so hard to preserve. And I hope that they, too, will feel the same sense of pride and connection that I do when they take that first bite of tender, flavorful pig's feet.