Pigs’ feet are a common ingredient in recipes around the world in a variety of communities. In Southern states, you can find them almost everywhere, the grocery store, gas station, farmers’ markets, and even Walmart, and for good reason. They are pure yum!!! I love this recipe because it is cheap, simple, and delicious. Another big plus? Pigs’ feet are loaded with collagen. If you’ve wondered why my skin looks so great, there you have it! 😜
Recipe Ingredients
How to Pickle Pigs Feet
Boil the Pigs’ Feet
Wash – Start by washing the pigs’ feet thoroughly, then place them in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.Boil – Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours until the pigs’ feet are tender. (Photo 1)Skim – While the pigs’ feet are cooking, skim off any foam from the surface.
Pickle the Pigs’ Feet
Prep the Trotters – Remove the feet from the cooking liquid, rinse with water, remove as many bones as possible, and set them aside. Discard the cooking liquid.Make the Brine – In a large bowl, combine water, vinegar, and salt, stirring until the salt dissolves. Set aside.Pack the Ingredients – Place half of the sliced onion, celery, garlic, bay leaves, and peppers into a jar, then put the pigs’ feet on top and layer with the remainder of the ingredients. (Photo 2-3)Add the Brine – Pour the pickling liquid (vinegar mixture) into the jar to cover the pork. Cover the jar tightly with the lid and place it in the refrigerator. (Photo 4)Patience – Wait 3-7 days before serving.
Recipe Variations
Tips and Tricks
Make-Ahead Instructions
This recipe is ideal for a make-ahead. In fact, you have to make it at least three days ahead of time if you want the pigs’ feet to have an authentic pickled flavor.
Serving and Storage Instructions
Serve pickled pigs’ feet straight out of the jar. Or grab a fork and serve yourself directly from the jar! 😆 There’s no need to heat pickled pigs’ feet because they taste great chilled. Keep your pickled pigs’ feet in a sealed jar in the fridge. They will stay good for about a week after you open the jar.
What to Serve With Pickled Pigs Feet
This is a classic soul-food recipe. And, of course, it goes perfectly with collard greens, black-eyed peas, and cornbread. 😋 If you really want to stuff yourself and your family, make a huge potato salad to complete the line-up.
More Delightful Pickle Recipes to Try
Pickled JalapenosPickled OnionsPickled EggsFried Pickles
Conclusion
I hope you try these trotters and are surprised to find that you love them just as much as I do! Already a fan of homemade pickled pigs’ feet? Please let me know your best tips and tricks for a mouthwatering jar of this Southern delight in the comment section below.