Chicharrón

Chicharrón
Bolivia
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs pork belly or pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup vegetable oil (or lard for traditional flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • Fresh lime wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Season the Pork

In a large bowl, combine the pork pieces, salt, ground black pepper, ground cumin, and minced garlic. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly seasoned.

Cook the Pork

In a large pot or deep skillet, add the seasoned pork pieces and chopped onion.

Pour in the water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Reduce the heat to medium and let the pork simmer until the water has evaporated and the pork starts to render its fat, about 30-40 minutes.

Fry the Pork

Once the water has evaporated and the pork has started to brown in its own fat, add the vegetable oil or lard to the pot.

Continue to cook the pork over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pork is crispy and golden brown on all sides, about 15-20 minutes.

Add the white vinegar during the last few minutes of frying to enhance the flavor and crispiness.

Drain and Serve

Remove the pork pieces from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

Transfer the chicharrón to a serving dish.

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Chicharrón can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer.

It can also be served with traditional Bolivian accompaniments such as boiled potatoes, corn on the cob, or llajwa (a spicy tomato sauce).

Enjoy your meal!