Best Easy Chitterlings Recipe

Cleaned and slow-cooked chitterlings are a traditional soul food delicacy that's a family holiday tradition across the South. This protein-rich dish has deep cultural roots and is typically served with hot sauce and vinegar.

Cook 300 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#high protein #soul food #holiday #traditional
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • chitterlings (cleaned pork intestines) 5 lbs
  • onion 1 large
  • celery stalks 2 pieces
  • garlic cloves 4 cloves
Seasonings/Sauce
  • white vinegar 0.25 cup
  • hot sauce 2 tbsp
  • bay leaf 2 pieces
  • black pepper 1 tsp
  • salt 1.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 3 g 3%
Protein 26 g 31%
Fat 24 g 66%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Thoroughly rinse the chitterlings under cold water, removing any debris. Soak in cold water with a splash of vinegar for 1 hour, then drain and rinse again.

  2. 2

    Place the cleaned chitterlings in a large pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a strong boil over high heat, then lower to a steady simmer.

  3. 3

    Spoon off any foam that appears on the surface during the first 30 minutes to keep the broth clear.

  4. 4

    Add the onion (quartered), celery, garlic, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, and 1/4 cup white vinegar to the pot. Stir and reduce heat to low.

  5. 5

    Cover and simmer gently for 4–5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until chitterlings are tender but not falling apart.

  6. 6

    Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a dash of hot sauce on the side.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this chitterlings recipe?
The primary ingredient is cleaned pork intestines, known as chitterlings. Their distinctive flavor and silky texture define the dish, creating the savory soul food experience that is central to this Southern holiday tradition.
Q. What cooking techniques help prevent tough or chewy chitterlings?
Gentle, low simmering for several hours is crucial for tenderizing chitterlings. Avoid boiling too vigorously; keep heat low and stir occasionally, covering the pot, for even cooking and a soft, pleasant texture.
Q. How do onions, celery, and garlic add to the flavor of chitterlings?
Onion, celery, and garlic infuse the chitterlings and broth with a savory and aromatic base, balancing the richness and earthiness of the main ingredient while masking any unwanted odors during the long cooking process.
Q. What is the nutritional profile per serving for this recipe?
Each 220g serving contains approximately 340 kcal, 3g carbohydrates (3% of calories), 26g protein (31%), and 24g fat (66%). This makes chitterlings a protein-rich, low-carb dish.
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