Crispy Pork Crackling Pâté

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork cracklings 500g (1.1 lb) pork cracklings
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter, melted 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp brandy (optional) 2 tbsp brandy (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
• Carbohydrates: 1g (Sugars: 0g)
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, grind the pork cracklings until they form a coarse paste.
2. 2.
   In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the ground pork cracklings to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Stir in the paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. 5.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
6. 6.
   Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the melted butter and brandy (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
7. 7.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. 8.
   Transfer the pâté to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
9. 9.
   Serve chilled and enjoy with crusty bread or crackers.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork cracklings — Ensure that the cracklings are crispy and well-rendered before grinding them. If needed, you can purchase pre-made pork cracklings or make them at home by roasting pork skin until crispy.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika to the pâté.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve a small portion of the ground cracklings and mix them into the smooth pâté before refrigerating.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor according to your preference.
• Serve the pâté with tangy pickles or a dollop of mustard for an extra burst of flavor.
• This pâté can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Pork Crackling Pâté chilled, spread on slices of crusty bread or crackers. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the pâté in a decorative jar or ramekin. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on top and sprinkle with paprika or cracked black pepper. Accompany with a selection of bread, crackers, and pickles for a visually appealing and delicious spread.