SouthernStyle DeepFried Chitterlings Recipe from www.thespruceeats.com
Introduction
Chitterlings, also known as chitlins, are a southern delicacy that has been enjoyed for generations. These small intestines of a pig are a popular dish in the African American community and are often served during holidays and special occasions. While some may be turned off by the idea of eating pig intestines, chitterlings are rich in flavor and can be prepared in a variety of ways. In this article, we will explore different chitterlings recipes that you can try at home.
Ingredients
The ingredients for chitterlings vary depending on the recipe you choose. However, some staple ingredients include: - 5 pounds of chitterlings - 1 onion - 1 green bell pepper - 1 red bell pepper - 4 cloves of garlic - 1 tablespoon of salt - 1 tablespoon of black pepper - 1 tablespoon of red pepper flakes - 1 tablespoon of paprika - 1/2 cup of vinegar - 1/2 cup of hot sauce - 1/2 cup of butter - 1/2 cup of flour - 2 cups of chicken broth
Instructions
Cleaning the Chitterlings
Before cooking chitterlings, it's important to clean them thoroughly. Begin by rinsing the chitterlings in cold water several times to remove any dirt and debris. Next, fill a large container with cold water and add 1 cup of vinegar. Soak the chitterlings in the vinegar water for at least 2 hours, then rinse them again.
Cooking the Chitterlings
There are different ways to cook chitterlings, but most recipes require boiling them first. In a large pot, add the cleaned chitterlings and enough water to cover them. Add 1 onion, 1 green bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, and 4 cloves of garlic to the pot. Season with 1 tablespoon of salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and paprika. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3-4 hours, or until the chitterlings are tender.
Frying the Chitterlings
Once the chitterlings are cooked, you can fry them for added flavor and texture. In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium-high heat. Add the cooked chitterlings to the skillet and fry for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until crispy. Remove the chitterlings from the skillet and set them aside.
Making the Gravy
To make gravy, whisk 1/2 cup of flour into the remaining butter in the skillet. Cook the flour for 2-3 minutes, then slowly whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth. Add 1/2 cup of hot sauce and continue whisking until the gravy thickens. Serve the chitterlings with the gravy on top.
Nutrition
While chitterlings are delicious, they are also high in calories and fat. A 3-ounce serving of chitterlings contains approximately 200 calories and 10 grams of fat. If you're watching your diet, it's best to enjoy chitterlings in moderation and pair them with healthy side dishes.
Conclusion
Chitterlings are a unique and flavorful dish that have been enjoyed for generations. While they may require some extra cleaning and cooking time, the end result is worth it. Whether you prefer them boiled or fried, chitterlings are a southern delicacy that are sure to impress your dinner guests. Try out one of the recipes above and experience the rich taste of chitterlings for yourself.
