Roasted Pig's Trotters

Crispy and delicious roasted pig trotters, bursting with collagen in every bite, are simply irresistible. Unlock this roasted pig trotter recipe and embark on a flavorful journey!

1. What are Roasted Pig Trotters?

Roasted pig trotters are made by cleaning and preparing whole or chopped pig trotters, which are then marinated with seasonings. Common ingredients include ginger, garlic, cooking wine, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, salt, and five-spice powder, all of which can be adjusted to personal taste.

Once roasted, the trotters have a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, offering a rich flavor. They can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or side dish, paired with various sauces or condiments to enhance their taste. In some regions, this dish is considered a delicacy and is highly favored.

2. Ingredients and Substitutes

Pig Trotters: The main ingredient, rich in collagen.

Ginger: Removes odors and adds fragrance; can be replaced with ginger powder.

Rock Sugar: Used for caramelizing to give the trotters a rich, red color and sweetness; can be substituted with white sugar.

Oyster Sauce: Enhances flavor; can be replaced with fish sauce or other seasonings.

Star Anise: Adds aroma and reduces odors; can be substituted with five-spice powder.

Cinnamon: Adds a unique flavor; can be replaced with ground cinnamon.

Green Onions: Removes odors and adds fragrance; can be replaced with onions.

Cooking Wine: Reduces odors; can be substituted with white wine or yellow wine.

Light Soy Sauce: For seasoning and enhancing flavor; can be replaced with any soy sauce.

Dark Soy Sauce: For coloring; can be substituted with braising soy sauce.

Sichuan Peppercorns: Adds a numbing and aromatic flavor; can be replaced with ground Sichuan pepper.

Bay Leaves: Enhances aroma; can be substituted with ground bay leaves.

Tip:

The above ingredients and seasonings are primarily Chinese; it’s recommended to visit a Chinese or Asian grocery store to purchase them. Try to use the original ingredients for the best flavor.

3. Equipment Needed

Different methods for preparing roasted pig trotters require various types of cookware. Here are the tools used in this recipe:

Stockpot: Useful for removing any odors from the pig trotters; a regular pot can also work.

Pressure Cooker: Provides a stable high-temperature environment, ensuring the trotters are evenly cooked. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, a regular pot can be used, but it will take longer to simmer.

Air Fryer: Offers a consistent high-temperature environment, allowing the trotters to roast to a golden crisp. If you have an oven at home, that can be used as an alternative as well.

4. How to Cut Pig Trotters

Pig trotters are quite tough, making home preparation challenging. It’s advisable to ask the butcher to cut them into evenly sized pieces when purchasing. If you prefer to handle them yourself, follow these steps:

Prepare Tools: Choose a sharp knife to ensure a smooth cutting process.

Wash the Pig Trotters: Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt and impurities.

Stabilize the Trotters: Place the trotters on a stable surface and press down with one hand to keep them steady.

Cut the Trotters: Use the knife to cut along the joints or natural seams of the trotters. If using a cleaver or axe, apply even pressure to avoid injury. If using a kitchen knife, employ a sawing motion to gradually cut through the trotters.

Prepare the Pieces: Rinse the cut trotters under clean water to remove any residual blood or bone fragments. Depending on your needs, you can further cut the pieces into appropriate sizes, generally recommended at 2-3 inches.

5. How Long to Roast Pig Trotters

Typically, the roasting time for pig trotters varies based on their size and the preheating temperature of the air fryer or oven. Since our recipe involves pre-cooking the trotters, the roasting time is relatively short—approximately 25 to 35 minutes. Be sure to flip them once during the cooking process for even browning.

6. How to Store Roasted Pig Trotters

Refrigeration Method: Place the roasted pig trotters in a sealed container, removing as much air as possible, and store them in the refrigerator. They can be kept for 1-2 days.

Freezing Method: For longer storage, wrap the roasted trotters tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a sealable bag, squeezing out any air before freezing. They can last for 1-2 months, though the texture may be slightly compromised after freezing.

Reheating:

To restore their crispiness, place the roasted trotters on a baking tray and heat them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-8 minutes. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer, heating them for about 10 minutes.

7. More Delicious Recipe Recommendations

Delicious Teriyaki Chicken

Chinese Sausage

Chinese-Style Fried Chicken

Cumin and Garlic Roasted Lamb Shank

Here’s the detailed tutorial for the roasted pig trotters recipe. Let’s get started!

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