Sikkimese-inspired Spiced Pork Trotters

Ingredients

In the original Swedish dish, Grisfötter, the pork trotters are typically braised in a rich and savory broth, often flavored with herbs and spices like bay leaves and peppercorns. However, in this Sikkimese-inspired adaptation, the flavors are transformed by incorporating a unique blend of Sikkimese spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and star anise. Additionally, the dish incorporates local Sikkimese ingredients like ginger, garlic, and chilies to add a distinct heat and depth of flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Grisfötter, so you can check it out.

• 4 pork trotters (about 1 kg / 2.2 lbs) 4 pork trotters (about 1 kg / 2.2 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 2 teaspoons ground cardamom 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 star anise 2 star anise
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 1g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies to the pot. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the pork trotters to the pot and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, star anise, turmeric powder, and red chili powder over the pork trotters. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the water and season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
6. 6.
   Simmer the pork trotters for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
7. 7.
   Once the pork trotters are cooked, remove them from the pot and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve the Sikkimese-inspired Spiced Pork Trotters hot with steamed rice or traditional Sikkimese bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork trotters — Ensure that the pork trotters are thoroughly cleaned and trimmed before cooking. Remove any excess fat or skin for a leaner dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder or add additional green chilies.
• Serve the Spiced Pork Trotters with a side of tangy Sikkimese tomato chutney for a burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove the pork trotters from the pot once cooked and simmer the remaining liquid until it reaches the desired consistency.
• This dish tastes even better when prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving advice

Serve the Sikkimese-inspired Spiced Pork Trotters hot with steamed rice or traditional Sikkimese bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tender pork trotters on a serving platter, ensuring they are well-coated with the flavorful gravy. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for an appealing touch. Serve alongside a mound of steamed rice or traditional Sikkimese bread to complete the presentation.