Pork hocks

Description

Pork trotters are meaty, fatty pieces with a lot of cartilage and connective tissue, featuring light brown skin and a subtle yet deep meaty flavor enriched by the delicate sweetness of collagen after long cooking. Due to their high collagen and gelatin content, they provide proteins and amino acids that support joint flexibility and skin condition, as well as minerals such as iron and phosphorus; they also contain fat and a moderate amount of cholesterol, so it's best to consume them in moderation. Culinary uses include jellies, broths, stews, sauces, and braised dishes that require long cooking — they give dishes a rich, silky finish. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours in an airtight container or frozen for about 3 months; it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator and rinse and optionally blanch before further processing.