Discover how to make Piftie, a traditional Eastern European dish featuring savory pork jelly made from pig's feet and other cuts. This delicious recipe is flavored with garlic, offering a unique and rich taste. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal, this step-by-step guide will help you create this classic delicacy with ease.

Ingredients:

- 2 pig's feet (cleaned and split)

- 1 pig's knuckle (or other pork parts, like ears or hocks)

- 1 large onion, peeled and chopped

- 5-6 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 bay leaves

- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

- Water

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

  - In a large pot, place the pig's feet and pig's knuckle. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the top. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

Add Flavorings:

  - Add the chopped onion, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Strain the Broth:

  - Remove the meat from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth through a fine sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the solids.

Debone the Meat:

  - Once the meat is cool enough to handle, remove it from the bones. Shred or chop the meat into small pieces.

Mix the Meat and Broth:

  - In a large bowl, combine the shredded meat with minced garlic. Pour the hot broth over the meat mixture and stir well.

Set the Piftie:

  - Pour the mixture into individual serving dishes or a large mold. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or until it sets and becomes firm.

Serve:

  - Once set, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve chilled as an appetizer or a main dish.

Enjoy your homemade Piftie, a savory and flavorful pork jelly that's sure to impress!

Nutritional Values:

Pig's Feet (2, cleaned and split)

  - Calories: Approximately 340 (per foot)

  - Protein: 37g (per foot)

  - Fat: 22g (per foot)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

  - Rich in collagen, which supports skin, joint, and bone health.

  - A good source of protein, contributing to muscle repair and growth.

Pig's Knuckle (or other pork parts like ears or hocks)

  - Calories: Approximately 450 (per knuckle)

  - Protein: 50g

  - Fat: 30g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

  - High in protein and collagen, promoting skin elasticity and joint health.

  - Contains essential minerals like zinc and iron, which support immune function and red blood cell production.

Onion (1 large, peeled and chopped)

  - Calories: 45

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

  - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

  - Rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

  - Supports heart health and aids in digestion.

Garlic (5-6 cloves, minced)

  - Calories: 27

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

Benefits:

  - Contains allicin, which has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

  - Supports cardiovascular health and boosts the immune system.

Bay Leaves (2 leaves)

  - Calories: Minimal (negligible)

Benefits:

  - Adds flavor and aids digestion.

  - Contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Black Peppercorns (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 6

  - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

Benefits:

  - Contains piperine, which enhances nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties.

  - May aid digestion and support metabolism.

Salt (1 teaspoon, to taste)

  - Calories: 0

  - Sodium: 2300mg (per teaspoon)

Benefits:

  - Essential for electrolyte balance and proper muscle function.

  - Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to maintain heart health.

Water

  - Calories: 0

Benefits:

  - Hydrates and serves as the cooking medium for the dish.

  - Helps extract the flavors and nutrients from the ingredients.

Fresh Parsley for Garnish (Optional)

  - Calories: 4 (per tablespoon)

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function and bone health.

  - Contains antioxidants and may help reduce bloating.

This dish is nutrient-dense, particularly in collagen and protein, making it beneficial for skin, joint, and muscle health.