Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 pig's trotters (crubeens)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water, as needed
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Oven-safe dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Rinse the pig's trotters under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a large pot, add the pig's trotters, onion, garlic, bay leaves, dried thyme, and enough water to cover the trotters. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the trotters are tender.
4. Remove the trotters from the pot and place them in an oven-safe dish.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the trotters, making sure they are coated evenly.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the trotters are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 3-4 hours (simmering) + 30-40 minutes (baking)
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 30g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of pig's trotters, you can use pork hocks or pork knuckles.
- You can use any type of mustard you prefer, such as spicy mustard or horseradish mustard.
- Instead of honey, you can use maple syrup or brown sugar.
- Instead of apple cider vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar.
Variations:
- Add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot when simmering the trotters for a complete one-pot meal.
- Use the leftover meat from the trotters to make a hearty soup or stew.
- Serve the trotters with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Tricks:
- To make the trotters extra crispy, remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- If the trotters are not tender enough after simmering, you can continue to simmer them until they are.
- You can also cook the trotters in a slow cooker on low for 8-10 hours instead of simmering them on the stove.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover trotters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, place the trotters in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the trotters on a bed of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley.
Garnishes:
- Fresh thyme leaves
- Chopped parsley
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of sauerkraut or pickled vegetables.
- Pair with a cold beer or a glass of dry white wine.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Braised red cabbage
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the trotters are not crispy enough, remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- If the trotters are not tender enough after simmering, you can continue to simmer them until they are.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to clean the pig's trotters thoroughly before cooking.
- Cook the trotters to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
Food History:
- Crubeens is a traditional Irish dish made from pig's trotters. It was a popular dish among the working class in Ireland, as it was an inexpensive source of protein.
Flavor Profiles:
- The mustard and thyme add a tangy and savory flavor to the dish, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the trotters as a main course for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Region: Irish