Discover the vibrant flavors of Souse, a traditional pickled meat dish that combines pork, chicken, or fish with zesty lime, fresh peppers, and onions. This flavorful recipe brings together a tangy, spicy, and savory experience that's perfect for a hearty meal or a special occasion. Learn how to prepare this classic dish with step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for those who love bold, pickled meats with a citrusy twist!

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs pork, chicken, or fish, cut into chunks

- 1 cup lime juice (about 4-5 limes)

- 1 large onion, sliced

- 2-3 hot peppers, sliced (adjust to taste)

- 1 bell pepper, sliced

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon salt

- 1 tablespoon black pepper

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 bay leaf

- 2 cups water

- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

  - In a large bowl, mix the meat with salt, black pepper, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.

Cook the Meat:

  - In a large pot, add the marinated meat and enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender.

Prepare the Pickling Mixture:

  - In a separate bowl, combine the lime juice, sliced onions, hot peppers, bell pepper, and minced garlic.

Combine and Pickle:

  - Once the meat is cooked, drain it from the pot and place it in a clean jar or container. Pour the lime mixture over the meat, making sure it’s well-covered. 

Let It Pickle:

  - Cover the jar or container and let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavors.

Serve:

  - Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve cold or at room temperature. Enjoy it as a main dish or with your favorite side dishes.

Nutritional values

Pork, Chicken, or Fish (2 lbs or 900g):

  - Pork (e.g., shoulder): Approximately 1,800 calories, 170g protein, 0g carbohydrates, 120g fat.

  - Chicken (e.g., breast): Approximately 1,050 calories, 180g protein, 0g carbohydrates, 30g fat.

  - Fish (e.g., salmon): Approximately 1,500 calories, 150g protein, 0g carbohydrates, 100g fat.

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and various vitamins and minerals depending on the type of meat or fish.

Lime Juice (1 cup or 240ml):

  - Approximately 60 calories

  - 0.5g protein

  - 15g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: High in vitamin C, supports immune function, adds a tangy flavor.

Large Onion (1, approximately 150g):

  - Approximately 60 calories

  - 1g protein

  - 14g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, supports immune health and adds flavor.

Hot Peppers (2-3, sliced):

  - Approximately 15 calories per pepper

  - 0.5g protein

  - 4g carbohydrates

  - 0.5g fat

Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and adds heat.

Bell Pepper (1, approximately 120g):

  - Approximately 25 calories

  - 1g protein

  - 6g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: High in vitamin C, provides antioxidants, supports immune health.

Garlic (3 cloves, minced):

  - Approximately 12 calories

  - 0.6g protein

  - 3g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: Immune-boosting, may improve heart health.

Salt (1 tablespoon):

  - Approximately 0 calories

  - 0g protein

  - 0g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: Enhances flavor; excessive use can affect health.

Black Pepper (1 tablespoon):

  - Approximately 21 calories

  - 0.6g protein

  - 5g carbohydrates

  - 0.2g fat

Benefits: Contains antioxidants, aids digestion.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon):

  - Approximately 1 calorie

  - 0.1g protein

  - 0.2g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: Contains antioxidants, supports digestion and has antimicrobial properties.

Paprika (1 teaspoon):

  - Approximately 6 calories

  - 0.2g protein

  - 1g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: Contains antioxidants, adds color and flavor.

Bay Leaf (1 leaf):

  - Approximately 2 calories

  - 0.1g protein

  - 0.5g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: Adds flavor, contains antioxidants.

Water (2 cups or 480ml):

  - 0 calories

  - 0g protein

  - 0g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: Hydrates the dish, aids in cooking.

Fresh Cilantro (for garnish, optional):

  - Approximately 1 calorie per tablespoon

  - 0.1g protein

  - 0.3g carbohydrates

  - 0g fat

Benefits: Contains vitamins A, C, and K, supports digestion and adds fresh flavor.