How To Cook Pig Ears Southern Style

Delicious and Flavorful: Southern Style Pig Ears

If you’re looking to try something unique and tasty, why not give Southern style pig ears a go? These crispy and flavorful treats have long been a staple in Southern cuisine, and today we’re going to show you how to cook them to perfection.

What are Pig Ears?

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk a little bit about pig ears themselves. Pig ears are the edible part of the pig’s ear, yes, you heard that right! They are a popular ingredient in various cuisines worldwide, including Southern cooking. When cooked correctly, pig ears become crispy on the outside while remaining tender and chewy on the inside.

Preparation

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients:

6 pig ears
2 tablespoons of salt
1 tablespoon of black peppercorns
4 bay leaves
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Optional: hot sauce or barbecue sauce for serving

Now that you have your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps to cook the perfect Southern style pig ears:

Step 1: Cleaning the Pig Ears

Start by rinsing the pig ears under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Next, place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water.

Step 2: Boiling and Simmering

Add salt, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and crushed garlic to the pot with the pig ears. Place the pot on the stove over high heat and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the pig ears simmer for about 2 hours or until they are tender.

Step 3: Cooling and Drying

Once the pig ears are tender, remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly. Once they are cool enough to handle, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Step 4: Frying to Perfection

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pig ears to the pan. Fry them for about 5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Serving and Enjoyment

Once fried, remove the pig ears from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as hot sauce or barbecue sauce. Pig ears can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as a unique addition to a Southern-style meal.

So, there you have it – a simple guide on how to cook pig ears Southern style. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with a delicious and authentic Southern treat!

Share your thoughts and experiences cooking pig ears Southern style in the Cooking Techniques forum. Join the discussion and let us know your favorite recipe or any tips and tricks you’ve learned along the way!

FAQ:

Can I cook pig ears without deep frying them?

Yes, you can cook pig ears without deep frying them. While deep frying is a popular method, you can also braise or simmer them to achieve a tender and flavorful result.

How do I clean and prepare pig ears before cooking?

Before cooking pig ears, make sure to clean them thoroughly. Start by removing any hair or debris. Next, scrub the ears under cold water with a brush to clean the surface. Finally, trim off any excess fat or cartilage if desired.

What are some traditional seasonings used for Southern-style pig ears?

Traditional Southern-style pig ears are often seasoned with a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. These seasonings add a savory and mildly spicy flavor to the pig ears.

How long should I cook pig ears for them to be tender?

Pig ears are tough cuts of meat that require a longer cooking time to become tender. Typically, they need to be simmered or braised for about 2-3 hours until they reach the desired tenderness. You can adjust the cooking time depending on the recipe and personal preference.

Can I marinate pig ears before cooking?

Yes, marinating pig ears can add extra flavor to your dish. You can create a marinade using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and your choice of herbs and spices. Simply place the pig ears in the marinade for a few hours or overnight, then cook them according to your recipe.

Are pig ears a popular Southern dish?

Yes, pig ears are a popular delicacy in Southern cuisine. They are often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack, especially in the form of crispy fried pig ear strips. Their unique texture and rich flavor make them a beloved treat in the Southern food culture.

How can I serve Southern-style pig ears?

Southern-style pig ears can be served in various ways. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dish, served with hot sauce or dipping sauces like barbecue sauce or aioli. You can also incorporate them into salads, sandwiches, tacos, or even use them to add a flavorful twist to traditional Southern dishes like collard greens or black-eyed peas.

Was this page helpful?

Yes No