Discover how to make traditional hogs head cheese, a savoury Canadian delicacy, with this detailed recipe.
Prep
30 min
Cook
240 min
Total
510 min
Servings
12
Difficulty
Medium
Instructions
Prepare the pig's head
Clean the pig's head thoroughly, ensuring any hair is removed. Rinse under cold water.
Pro tip: Ask your butcher to clean and halve the pig's head for convenience.
Cook the head
Place the pig's head in a large pot and cover with water. Add salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 hours.
Pro tip: Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during cooking.
Add aromatics
Add onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and thyme to the pot. Continue simmering for another hour until meat is falling off the bone.
Pro tip: Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavour.
Debone and chop
Remove the head from the pot and let cool slightly. Debone and chop the meat finely. Strain and reserve cooking liquid.
Pro tip: Ensure all bones are removed to prevent any unpleasant surprises.
Combine ingredients
Mix the chopped meat with a portion of the reserved cooking liquid, enough to bind. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Set the mixture
Pour the mixture into a terrine or loaf pan. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Pro tip: Place a weight on top of the terrine for a denser texture.
Tips & Tricks
- Ensure the pig's head is cleaned thoroughly before cooking.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavour impact.
- Chill the mixture fully to help it set properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hogs head cheese?
Hogs head cheese is a savoury meat terrine made from parts of a pig's head, seasoned and set into a loaf.
How do you make hogs head cheese?
Cook a pig's head until tender, debone, chop, and mix with cooking liquid and spices, then chill until set.
How long does it take to make hogs head cheese?
It takes about 8.5 hours total, including cooking and chilling time.
What does hogs head cheese taste like?
It has a rich, savoury flavour with a gelatinous texture, seasoned with herbs and spices.
Can you freeze hogs head cheese?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
250
Calories
20g
Protein
17g
Fat
5g
Carbs
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