Chitterlings, also known as chitlins are a soul food staple made from boiled pork intestines. They have a very unique flavor and texture that takes some getting used to. But once you acquire the taste for chitlins you’ll be hooked!
Cooking chitterlings properly takes time and care. Doing them in the slow cooker makes the process much easier while still resulting in tender mildly flavored chitlins with the perfect texture.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to cook pork chitterlings in the crock pot, from how to clean and prep them to seasonings and cooking time.
What are Chitterlings?
Chitterlings are made from the small intestines of pigs. They were popular slave fare during colonial times as plantation owners would give slaves the leftover undesirable cuts like organ meats.
Chitlins have a very particular soft, glandular texture and strong odor. Proper cleaning and long cooking makes them more palatable. They are an essential soul food with loads of history.
Benefits of Cooking Chitterlings in a Slow Cooker
Using a crockpot to prepare chitlins offers several advantages:
- Slow cooking tenderizes the meat for hours
- No need to watch a pot on the stove
- The smell is contained
- You can cook large batches easily
- Keeps warm for serving
The moist, gentle heat of the crockpot is perfect for getting chitlins tender.
How to Clean and Prep Chitterlings for Cooking
Raw chitlins require very thorough cleaning before they are edible:
- Soak in vinegar water – Helps soften and loosen mucous coating
- Remove thin outer membrane – This will slip off easily after soaking
- Cut away any fat or sinew – Trim off any tough pieces
- Rinse well – Get rid of lingering dirt and smell
Cleaning chitlins is very labor intensive. You can sometimes find pre-cleaned ones to shorten prep.
Once cleaned, cut chitlins into 2-3 inch pieces to allow seasonings to penetrate during cooking.
Seasoning and Flavoring Chitterlings
Chitlins have a very mild flavor on their own. The seasonings are key for bringing out the taste. Here are some classic seasoning combos:
- Onion, garlic, cayenne pepper, paprika, oregano, bay leaves
- Onion powder, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, sage
- Dijon mustard, onion, red wine vinegar, thyme
- Chicken bouillon powder or cubes
Get creative with spices and herbs! Apply 1-2 tablespoons total per batch and mix well to coat. Brothy seasonings like chicken bouillon infuse flavor.
How to Cook Chitterlings in the Crock Pot
Cooking chitlins in a slow cooker takes a good 6-10 hours on HIGH heat due to their texture. Here are the simple steps:
- Prep cleaned chitterlings and cut into pieces
- Place in crockpot and cover with water by 2 inches
- Stir in desired amount of seasoning mix
- Cook on HIGH for 6-10 hours
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer chitlins to a serving platter
The cooked chitlins will be very tender and should be creamy white in color with bits of seasoning throughout.
Add more water if needed during cooking to keep the level above the chitlins. Don’t let them dry out.
Cooking Time for Chitterlings in a Slow Cooker
Due to their makeup, chitterlings take a good while to become tender. Plan for a long cooking time:
- 1-2 lbs chitterlings – Cook 6 hours
- 3-5 lbs chitterlings – Cook 8 hours
- 5-7 lbs chitterlings – Cook 10 hours
Check for tenderness after the minimum time. They can keep cooking longer until as soft as you like them.
Serving and Eating Chitterlings
On their own, chitlins have a soft creamy texture and very mild flavor. But that canvas readily absorbs any seasonings and sauces.
Here are some classic ways to serve cooked chitterlings:
- On white bread as a sandwich with hot sauce
- With saltine crackers and hot sauce as a snack
- Over cooked white rice
- With sauce and gravy ladled over the top
They’re also great in dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles after the initial long cook.
Hot sauces like Tabasco, Louisiana, and Texas Pete are standard accompaniments to liven up the mild chitlins. Their vinegary tang balances the richness.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Chitterlings
You’ll likely have leftovers after cooking a large batch. Store and reheat them properly:
- Let cool completely then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in a saucepan with a bit of water or broth.
- Alternatively, reheat in the microwave at 50% power in 30 second bursts.
Don’t keep leftovers too long. Reheat only until warm throughout and add more seasoning if desired.
Common Questions About Cooking Chitlins in a Slow Cooker
Can you cook frozen chitterlings in a slow cooker?
Yes, frozen cleaned chitterlings can go right into the crockpot. Add 1-2 hours to the cook time.
Should you prick chitterlings before cooking?
Some recommend pricking them with a fork before cooking to allow the seasoning in. This isn’t necessary if you cut them into smaller pieces first.
Do you rinse chitterlings after cooking?
You don’t need to rinse cooked chitlins again. Simply drain in a colander before serving.
Can you overcook chitterlings?
It’s difficult to overcook them in a slow cooker. The long cooking makes them meltingly tender.
Tips for Delicious Crock Pot Chitterlings
- Clean very thoroughly for the best flavor
- Cut into bite-size pieces before cooking
- Use broth for added moisture and flavor
- Cook on HIGH heat for at least 6 hours
- Season heavily with spices, vinegar, mustard
- Add hot sauce at the table to taste
With some prep work and ample cooking time, chitterlings come out perfect from the crockpot!
Common Chitterlings FAQs
Chitterlings are unique and new to many people. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What do chitterlings taste like?
When properly cleaned and cooked, chitlins are mild tasting with a soft creamy texture. The seasonings added really give them most of their flavor.
Are chitterlings healthy?
Chitlins are high in vitamin B12 because they are an organ meat. But they are also high in cholesterol due to being a fatty cut. Eat them in moderation.
What are chitterlings made of?
Chitterlings are made from pig small intestines. They contain the digestive tract and lining. Thorough cleaning removes waste material.
Are chitterlings safe to eat?
Yes, thoroughly cleaned, cooked chitlins are safe to eat. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The long cooking also kills bacteria.
Can you freeze chitterlings?
You can freeze raw cleaned chitterlings for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. Don’t refreeze after cooking.
Are chitterlings smelly?
Chitlins have a very strong odor before cleaning and cooking. The vinegar soak and long cooking helps mellow the smell significantly.
Delicious Chitterlings Recipes to Try:
Now that you know the basics of cooking chitterlings in the crockpot, here are some tasty recipe ideas:
- Slow Cooker Chitterlings
- Crockpot Cajun Chitterlings
- Vinegar-Braised Chitterlings
- Chitterling Strata
- Slow Cooker Chitterlings with Apples
The slow cooker makes chitlins super convenient. With the right seasonings, they become a savory and sumptuous soul food tradition.