Looking for a crunchy, savory snack that will elevate your culinary skills? Try making homemade Southern Style Pork Cracklins! These crispy delights are packed with flavor and perfect for any gathering or as a satisfying treat to enjoy on your own. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
Before we get started, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
- 3 pounds of pork belly, skin on
- 2 tablespoons of salt
- 1 tablespoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- Oil for frying (lard or vegetable oil works great)
Instructions
Here’s a simple guide to whipping up your own batch of cracklins:
- Begin by preparing the pork belly. Cut it into large cubes, approximately 2 inches in size. Make sure the skin is left on for that extra crunch!
- In a large bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the pork belly cubes and toss until they are well-coated with the spice mixture.
- Next, let the seasoned pork belly sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- In a heavy-bottom pot, heat enough oil to fully submerge the pork belly cubes. The oil should reach temperatures of around 350°F (175°C).
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork belly cubes. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the cracklins from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Allow them to cool briefly before serving. The cracklins will continue to crisp up as they cool!
Final Touch
These Southern Style Pork Cracklins are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for a few days. They’re excellent as a snack on their own, or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick. Now, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to these irresistible, homemade pork cracklins!
source: jettskitchen.com