Southern-style Pork Cracklings Biscuits

Ingredients

In the original Slovenian dish, Ocvirkove pogačice, the cracklings are typically mixed into the dough and baked. However, in this adapted recipe, we incorporate the cracklings into the biscuit dough, resulting in a more pronounced flavor and texture. Additionally, the use of Southern American biscuit-making techniques and ingredients gives this dish a distinct Southern twist. We alse have the original recipe for Ocvirkove pogačice, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, cubed 1/2 cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1 cup (150g) pork cracklings, crushed 1 cup (150g) pork cracklings, crushed
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined.
5. 5.
   Gently fold in the crushed pork cracklings, being careful not to overmix.
6. 6.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it comes together.
7. 7.
   Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 2.5 cm (1 inch) and use a round biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
8. 8.
   Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. 10.
    Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness and color.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork cracklings — Ensure the pork cracklings are crushed into small pieces to evenly distribute the flavor throughout the biscuits.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flaky biscuits, freeze the cubed butter for 15 minutes before incorporating it into the flour mixture.
• If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the biscuits.

Serving advice

Serve these Southern-style Pork Cracklings Biscuits warm, either on their own or with a dollop of butter or your favorite jam. They are perfect for breakfast or brunch, and also make a delicious side dish for fried chicken or barbecue.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscuits on a rustic wooden platter or a colorful ceramic plate. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.