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Hog Head Cheese
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 1 hog head, cleaned and split
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup gelatin
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot, place the hog head, pork shoulder, onion, garlic, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and salt. Cover with water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove the hog head and pork shoulder from the pot. Discard the bones and any undesirable parts. Strain the broth and reserve 4 cups.
- Shred the meat and place it in a large bowl. Add the vinegar and mix well.
- In a small saucepan, heat the reserved broth and dissolve the gelatin in it. Pour the gelatin mixture over the meat and stir to combine.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or mold. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Once set, unmold the hog head cheese and slice. Serve cold as a snack or in sandwiches.
Hog head cheese, also known as souse or brawn, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. This traditional dish originated as a way to utilize the entire hog, reducing waste and maximizing flavor. The process involves simmering the hog's head and other trimmings, then combining the meat with spices and gelatin to create a savory, jellied loaf. In the southern United States, particularly Louisiana, hog head cheese is a beloved delicacy, often enjoyed with crackers or as a sandwich filling. Chefs like Emeril Lagasse have put their own spin on this classic, adding Cajun spices for a flavorful kick. Today, the best versions of hog head cheese can be found in authentic Southern delis and butcher shops, where the dish is made with care and attention to tradition. The key to a delicious hog head cheese lies in the quality of the meat and the perfect balance of spices, creating a rich and satisfying flavor. While the traditional method involves using the entire hog's head, some modern recipes offer alternatives using pork shoulder or other cuts. Whether enjoyed as a nostalgic comfort food or a gourmet treat, hog head cheese continues to hold a special place in Southern culinary tradition.
210 min
8 cups
280 calories
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