Vietnamese Traditions: A Delicious Guide to Pickled Pig’s Ears

A Balance of Flavors

During the Tet holidays, Vietnamese families gather to share a variety of delicious dishes, each one more mouthwatering than the last. Among these traditional treats, pickled pig’s ears stand out for their unique flavor and crunchy texture.

Rich and heavy traditional foods like caramelized pork cooked with coconut juices, sticky rice cake, and jam are staples of the Tet holiday table. However, to cut through the richness, Vietnamese families turn to pickled dishes with a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. These tangy treats help wash down the heavier fare, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

A Recipe for Success

One of the most beloved pickled dishes is made with pig’s ears, carrots, vinegar, sugar, and salt. This simple yet flavorful recipe yields a delicious snack that’s both crunchy and tangy.

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Shave the pig’s ears carefully, wash them, and boil them with a little salt for 20 minutes.
2. Plunge them into cold water for a couple of minutes to stop the cooking process.
3. Remove the ears from the water, dry them with a tea towel, and let them cool completely.
4. Meanwhile, peel the carrots and slice them into ½ cm thick rounds.

The Perfect Pickling Liquid

vinegar + sugar + salt = sweet and sour liquid

In a saucepan, mix together vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring lightly until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. The result should be a sweet and sour liquid that will infuse the pig’s ears and carrots with flavor. Let the mixture cool completely before using it.

Assembling the Pickle

1. Arrange the cooled pig’s ears and carrot slices in a clean, dry jar.
2. Pour the pickling liquid over them, making sure they’re completely covered.
3. To keep everything submerged, attach wooden sticks across the inside of the jar.
4. Close the jar tightly and store it in a dry place for 5 days.

The Wait is Worth It

After 5 days, the pickled pig’s ears are ready to eat. Slice them thinly and dip them into a spicy chili soy sauce for an added kick. The combination of crunchy texture and tangy flavor makes this dish a true Vietnamese delight.

With this simple recipe, you can bring a taste of Vietnam’s Tet holidays to your own table. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the perfect balance of flavors that Vietnamese families have enjoyed for generations!