Are you looking to spice up your meal routine with a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor? Look no further than pig feet! This often-overlooked cut of meat is surprisingly versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways to create hearty, satisfying meals. From spicy soups to rich stews, we’ve gathered 18 delicious pig feet recipes from around the world that are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through different cultures and cooking styles, showcasing the best pig feet recipes for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
Braised Pig Feet with Soy Sauce and Star Anise
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of comfort food, where slow-cooked pig feet are infused with the rich flavors of soy sauce and star anise. The result is a tender, fall-off-the-bone delicacy that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 4 pig feet (split or whole)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 star anise pod
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pig feet, soy sauce, vegetable oil, garlic, and star anise.
3. Pour in chicken broth until the pig feet are covered.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the pig feet are tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Korean Pig Feet Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that warms the soul, this Spicy Korean Pig Feet Soup is a staple of Korean cuisine. With a rich broth and tender pig feet, it’s a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pig feet (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the pig feet into large chunks and soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and rinse the pig feet, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add ginger, Gochujang, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, and chili flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Add pig feet to the pot and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Southern-Style Smothered Pig Feet
Smothered pig feet are a beloved Southern tradition that’s perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. This recipe is a flavorful and tender take on this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 pig feet, cleaned and trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown pig feet on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add onion, garlic, chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a boil.
5. Cover pot with lid and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Remove from oven and discard bay leaves.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Jamaican Curry Pig Feet
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this hearty dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is a twist on traditional pig feet, adding a rich and aromatic curry flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pig feet, cleaned and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and sauté until softened.
2. Add the pig feet, ginger, cumin, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the pig feet are tender.
5. Serve hot with rice, roti, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Chinese Red-Braised Pig Feet
Experience the rich flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 2 pig feet, cleaned and cut into large pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches ginger, sliced
– 1 star anise
– 10 peppercorns
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and white pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, star anise, and peppercorns; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add pig feet and stir-fry until browned (2-3 minutes).
4. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, wine, sugar, and cornstarch. Pour into the wok or skillet.
5. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Season with salt and white pepper. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Filipino Paksiw na Pata
Paksiw na pata, a popular Filipino dish made with tender pork feet cooked in a savory mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and spices. This hearty recipe is perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork feet (pata), cleaned and split
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 piece of ginger, sliced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or lard, for braising
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork feet, vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), onion, garlic, bay leaf, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and braise for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Pig Feet Stew with Black Beans
This hearty stew is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, where pig feet are often slow-cooked to tender perfection. This recipe combines the rich flavor of pig feet with the earthy sweetness of black beans, creating a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pig feet, cleaned and cut into large pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups of chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until softened.
2. Add the pig feet, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pig feet are tender.
5. Stir in the black beans and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Barbecue-Glazed Pig Feet
Sweet and Sticky Barbecue-Glazed Pig Feet Recipe
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked pig feet smothered in a tangy barbecue glaze. This mouthwatering recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pig feet, cleaned and split
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup barbecue glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pig feet, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the glazed pig feet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 2 hours, or until tender.
5. Brush the barbecue glaze over the pig feet during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pig Feet and Vegetable Hot Pot
This hearty hot pot recipe combines the rich flavor of pig feet with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a cold winter’s day. Serve with steamed buns or noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pig feet (about 1 pound), cut into large pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, chicken broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); bring to a boil.
4. Add pig feet; reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until meat is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (optional).
Slow-Cooked Pig Feet with Garlic and Herbs
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked pig feet, tenderized to perfection with aromatic garlic and herbs. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pig feet, cleaned and trimmed
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the garlic, parsley, thyme, and bay leaf.
3. Add the pig feet to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pig feet until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the seared pig feet to the slow cooker and cook for 8 hours or overnight.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Pig Feet Adobo with Vinegar and Soy Sauce
This classic Filipino dish is a flavorful and tender stew made with pig feet, vinegar, soy sauce, and aromatics. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 pig feet (about 1 pound each), cleaned and cut into large pieces
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pig feet, onion, garlic, and black pepper.
2. Pour in vinegar and soy sauce, making sure that the pig feet are covered.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2 hours.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pig Feet Jelly with Vinegar Dressing
A traditional Chinese dish that’s both savory and sour, Pig Feet Jelly is a popular treat for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pig foot (about 2 lbs), cleaned and cut into large pieces
– 4 cups water
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup vinegar (such as apple cider or white wine)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pig feet, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
2. Add vinegar, soy sauce, and any excess liquid from the cooking process. Continue to simmer for another hour.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
4. Strain jelly through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard solids.
5. Refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Tips:
– For a clearer jelly, you can add 1 tablespoon of pectin during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
– Serve chilled, garnished with chopped scallions or cilantro if desired.
Pig Feet and Lentil Soup
Pig Feet and Lentil Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a classic combination of tender pig feet, rich lentils, and aromatic spices that will warm your belly and soothe your soul. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pig feet, cut into large pieces
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the pig feet, lentils, carrots, celery, chicken broth, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the pig feet are falling apart.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Pig Feet Tacos with Pickled Onions
Pig Feet Tacos with Pickled Onions Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos! This recipe combines the rich flavor of slow-cooked pig feet with the tanginess of pickled onions, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 2 pig feet
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled onions (recipe below)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pig feet, lime juice, vinegar, water, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
3. Shred the cooked pig feet with two forks.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded pig feet onto a tortilla, topping with pickled onions, and adding optional toppings.
Pickled Onions Recipe:
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before using.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (including slow-cooking pig feet)
Pig Feet Gumbo with Okra and Shrimp
This hearty gumbo is a staple of Cajun cuisine, featuring tender pig feet, succulent shrimp, and the perfect balance of spices. Serve over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pig feet
– 1 lb okra, sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup long-grain rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Brown pig feet in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then set aside.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper; stir for 1 minute.
5. Add okra, shrimp, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
6. Return pig feet to the pot; cover and simmer for 2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Serve gumbo over rice.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pig Feet Stir-Fry with Chili and Basil
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of pig feet with the spiciness of chili peppers and the freshness of basil. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pig feet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed chili peppers (such as Szechuan and Thai chilies), sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: serve with steamed rice or noodles
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. Stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the pig feet and stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste, then continue stir-frying for another 5-7 minutes, or until the pig feet are cooked through.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pig Feet and Rice Congee
This hearty congee recipe combines the rich flavor of pig feet with comforting rice, perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pig foot (about 2 lbs), cleaned and cut into large pieces
– 4 cups water
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pig feet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the water, rice, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Remove the pig feet from the pot and let cool. Once cooled, cut into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot.
5. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the congee has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Pig Feet and Potato Curry
This hearty curry dish is perfect for a cold winter evening. Tender pig feet and creamy potatoes come together in a rich and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pig feet (about 1 pound each), cleaned and cut into large pieces
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the pig feet and potatoes. Pour in water or broth, making sure that the ingredients are covered. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the pig feet are tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Summary
Pig feet, also known as trotters or hocks, are an often-overlooked cut of meat that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious and hearty dishes. In this article, we’ve gathered 18 flavorful recipes that showcase the versatility of pig feet. From Asian-inspired braises to spicy soups and comforting stews, there’s something for every taste and cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on old favorites or inspiration for your next meal, these pig feet recipes are sure to satisfy.
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