Pork Jowl and Kale Soup Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound pork jowl, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Add the diced pork jowl and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring to a boil.

5. Add the chopped kale, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and dried oregano.

6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 minutes.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve hot.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Simmer over low heat
Serving size:
- 6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Total fat: 15g
- Saturated fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork jowl can be substituted with bacon or ham hock.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth or beef broth.
- Kale can be substituted with spinach or Swiss chard.
- Dried thyme and oregano can be substituted with fresh herbs.

Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for a heartier soup.
- Use cannellini beans instead of diced tomatoes for a different flavor.
- Add a splash of red wine for depth of flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Remove any excess fat from the pork jowl before cooking.
- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls with a slice of crusty bread on the side.

Garnishes:
- Top the soup with grated Parmesan cheese or croutons.

Pairings:
- Serve the soup with a side salad or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the pork jowl is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.

Food history:
- Pork jowl is a traditional ingredient in Southern cuisine, often used in dishes like collard greens and black-eyed peas.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, smoky, and slightly bitter from the kale.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a main course for a cozy dinner.

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Taste: Savory, Rich, Hearty, Umami, Earthy