How To Cook Pork Trotters?

Pork trotters, also known as pig’s feet, are a tasty and nutritious part of the pig that’s often overlooked. In South Africa, these humble cuts of meat are a beloved ingredient in many traditional dishes. Let’s dive into the world of pork trotters and learn how to cook them to perfection.

What Are Pork Trotters?

Pork trotters are the feet of a pig. They’re packed with collagen, which gives them a rich, gelatinous texture when cooked. In South Africa, pork trotters are a popular choice for hearty, warming meals.

Why Cook Pork Trotters?

1. Affordable: Trotters are often cheaper than other cuts of pork.
2. Nutritious: They’re rich in protein and minerals.
3. Flavorful: When cooked right, trotters have a deep, meaty taste.
4. Versatile: They work well in soups, stews, and braised dishes.

Preparing Pork Trotters

Before cooking, you need to clean the trotters well. Here’s how:

1. Rinse the trotters under cold water.
2. Use a sharp knife to remove any hair.
3. Scrub the trotters with salt to clean them thoroughly.
4. Rinse again and pat dry with paper towels.

South African Pork Trotter Recipe

Let’s look at a classic South African way to cook pork trotters.

Ingredients

• 4 pork trotters, cleaned and split in half
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• Salt to taste
• Water to cover

Steps

1. Place the cleaned trotters in a large pot.
2. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
3. Toss in the bay leaves and peppercorns.
4. Cover everything with water and add a pinch of salt.
5. Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat.
6. Let it simmer for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
7. Remove the trotters and strain the broth.
8. Serve the trotters with the vegetables and some of the broth.

This simple recipe lets the natural flavors of the pork trotters shine. The long cooking time helps break down the tough connective tissues, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish.

Spicy South African Pork Trotter Curry

For those who like a bit of heat, try this spicy curry version.

Ingredients

• 4 pork trotters, cleaned and split
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 3 tablespoons curry powder
• 2 teaspoons turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 cardamom pods
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste
• Oil for cooking

Steps

1. Heat oil in a large pot and fry the onions until golden.
2. Add the spices and cook for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the trotters and brown them on all sides.
4. Toss in the tomatoes and enough water to cover the trotters.
5. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2-3 hours until tender.
6. The sauce should thicken as it cooks. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit.
7. Serve hot with rice or bread.

This spicy version adds a South African twist to the humble pork trotter, turning it into a rich, flavorful curry.

Smoked Pork Trotters

Smoking adds a whole new level of flavor to pork trotters. Here’s how to do it:

1. Clean the trotters as described earlier.
2. Soak them in a brine solution (1/4 cup salt per quart of water) for 24 hours.
3. Remove from the brine and pat dry.
4. Rub with your favorite spice mix.
5. Smoke at 225°F (107°C) for about 3 hours.
6. Wrap in foil and continue cooking for another 2 hours or until tender.

The smoking process gives the trotters a deep, rich flavor that’s hard to beat.

Health Benefits of Pork Trotters

While pork trotters are often seen as an indulgence, they do offer some health benefits:

1. High in collagen: Good for skin, hair, and joint health.
2. Rich in protein: Helps build and repair body tissues.
3. Contains minerals: Including calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

However, they’re also high in fat and cholesterol, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Pork Trotters

1. Slow and low: Trotters need long, slow cooking to become tender.
2. Flavor base: Start with a good mix of aromatic vegetables for depth of flavor.
3. Skim the foam: During cooking, skim off any foam that rises to the surface for a clearer broth.
4. Check for doneness: The meat should be falling off the bone when ready.
5. Rest before serving: Let the trotters rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices settle.

Serving Suggestions

In South Africa, pork trotters are often served with:

• Pap: A traditional porridge made from ground maize.
• Samp and beans: A hearty side dish of dried corn kernels and beans.
• Chakalaka: A spicy vegetable relish.
• Steamed bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover pork trotters:

1. Let them cool completely.
2. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. To reheat, simmer gently in a pot until heated through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cooking Pork Trotters

1. Not cleaning properly: Thorough cleaning is crucial for hygiene and taste.
2. Cooking too fast: Rushing the cooking process will result in tough, chewy trotters.
3. Not seasoning enough: Trotters need good seasoning to bring out their best flavor.
4. Overcooking: While trotters need long cooking, they can become mushy if cooked too long.

Pork Trotters in South African Culture

In South Africa, pork trotters are more than just food. They’re a part of the country’s culinary heritage. Often called “trotters and beans” when served with sugar beans, this dish is a staple in many South African homes.

During apartheid, trotters were one of the few affordable meat options for many South Africans. Today, they’re enjoyed by people from all walks of life, appearing on the menus of high-end restaurants and local eateries alike.

Conclusion

Cooking pork trotters might seem daunting at first, but with a little patience and the right technique, you can create a delicious meal that’s packed with flavor and tradition. Whether you prefer them simply boiled, spiced up in a curry, or smoked to perfection, pork trotters offer a unique culinary experience that’s well worth exploring. So why not give this South African favorite a try? Your taste buds will thank you!