When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few ingredients can rival the rich flavor and tender texture of pork jowl. Also known as pork cheek or pork face, this often-overlooked cut of meat is a treasure trove of culinary possibilities. In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory hog jowl recipes that showcase its versatility and deliciousness.
From classic Southern-style comfort food to international-inspired dishes with global flavors, these recipes offer something for every palate and cooking style. Whether you’re in the mood for a crispy taco shell or a slow-cooked stew, there’s a hog jowl recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Southern Fried Hog Jowl with Collard Greens
A classic Southern dish that combines the rich flavors of fried pork jowl with the earthy goodness of collard greens. This hearty recipe is perfect for a comforting meal or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 bunch collard greens, washed and chopped
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip hog jowl pieces into buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry hog jowl until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Remove fried jowl from oil and place on paper towels to drain. Serve with collard greens cooked in the same skillet with some added chicken broth.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Hog Jowl and Black-Eyed Peas
This classic Lowcountry dish combines the rich flavors of smoked pork with the creamy sweetness of black-eyed peas. The result is a comforting, one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl or pork shoulder
– 1 cup black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the hog jowl with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Smoke the pork for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in chicken broth over medium heat.
5. Add the soaked black-eyed peas, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to the pot.
6. Simmer the mixture for 1-2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
7. Shred the smoked pork and add it to the pea mixture. Stir to combine.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-6 hours
Hog Jowl and Pinto Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Southern cuisine, featuring tender pork jowl and creamy pinto beans in a rich broth. A perfect blend of comfort food and flavorful goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl (or smoked pork hock), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the hog jowl pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the pinto beans, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Crispy Hog Jowl Tacos with Avocado Salsa
This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked hog jowl with the freshness of avocado and lime, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. A perfect fusion of Tex-Mex and Southern comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb hog jowl, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat lard or oil over medium-high heat. Add hog jowl strips; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble tacos by placing cooked hog jowl onto warmed tortillas and topping with Avocado Salsa.
5. Cook time: approximately 20-25 minutes.
Braised Hog Jowl with Cabbage and Apples
This hearty dish combines tender pork jowl with the sweetness of apples and the crunch of cabbage, all slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb hog jowl
– 2 medium apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the hog jowl with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
3. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the hog jowl until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add apples and cabbage to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
5. Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and reserved pork jowl back into the pot. Cover and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or overnight, until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Hog Jowl and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked hog jowl with a crispy cornbread crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the hog jowl in chicken broth, water, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until tender, about 2 hours.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the cornbread mixture by combining cornbread mix, heavy cream, and beaten egg.
4. Assemble the casserole by placing the cooked hog jowl on top of the cornbread mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with additional cornbread crumbs and chopped scallions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (hog jowl) + 25-30 minutes (casserole)
Spicy Hog Jowl Gumbo with Shrimp
This hearty gumbo recipe combines the rich flavors of spicy hog jowl with succulent shrimp, creating a deliciously complex and satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb hog jowl (or pork belly), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add hog jowl and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice and fish stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Hog Jowl Skewers with Pineapple Glaze
Grilled Hog Jowl Skewers with Pineapple Glaze: Sweet and savory, these skewers combine the rich flavor of hog jowl with the tropical taste of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Pineapple wedges and fresh cilantro for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Add hog jowl pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Thread marinated hog jowl onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush grill with vegetable oil and cook skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with pineapple wedges and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Hog Jowl and Potato Hash
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked hog jowl with the comforting warmth of crispy potato hash. Perfect for a cozy brunch or dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy any appetite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl (also known as pork cheek), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the hog jowl and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the hog jowl from the skillet and set aside. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, browned hog jowl, and onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the potato hash to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow-Cooked Hog Jowl with White Beans
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked hog jowl paired with creamy white beans, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. This hearty dish is a staple in many Southern households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb hog jowl or pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as navy or cannellini), rinsed and drained
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, cook hog jowl pieces over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add cooked hog jowl, white beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Hog Jowl Carbonara Pasta
This recipe puts a Southern spin on the Italian classic by substituting pork jowl for bacon and adding some tangy flavors. The result is a rich, savory pasta dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of hog jowl, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the hog jowl over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the hog jowl from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the eggs, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Add the cooked hog jowl back into the pasta and toss again to combine.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Glazed Hog Jowl Sliders
Experience the perfect combination of tender pork and tangy BBQ glaze on a soft bun, all wrapped up in one delicious slider. This unique recipe uses hog jowl, which is often overlooked but packs a flavorful punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ glaze and 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Brush the glaze mixture onto both sides of the hog jowl strips.
4. Grill the hog jowl for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and cooked through.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble sliders by placing grilled hog jowl on toasted buns, topping with coleslaw and pickle slices (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hog Jowl and Okra Stir-Fry
This classic Southern dish combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked hog jowl with the tender crunch of okra, all in one savory stir-fry. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups okra, sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high.
2. Add the hog jowl and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the okra and chicken broth to the pan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the hog jowl to the pan; stir to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the okra is tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple-Glazed Hog Jowl with Sweet Potatoes
This classic Southern dish combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and hog jowl with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl, sliced into thick slabs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the hog jowl slabs in a large baking dish and brush with the maple glaze.
4. Roast the hog jowl for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
5. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve the glazed hog jowl with roasted sweet potatoes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Hog Jowl and Lentil Stew
This rich and comforting stew is a perfect representation of Southern cuisine, with the tender hog jowl and lentils working together in harmony to create a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl (or pork belly), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the hog jowl and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add lentils, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the hog jowl to the pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pickled Hog Jowl Salad with Mustard Dressing
This tangy and savory salad combines the rich flavors of pickled hog jowl with crisp greens, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy mustard dressing. Perfect for a unique appetizer or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pickled hog jowl, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup mustard dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mustard Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red cabbage, and carrots.
2. Add diced pickled hog jowl on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle mustard dressing over the salad and toss gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (preparing ingredients), 5 minutes (assembling and serving)
Hog Jowl and Cheese Grits
This Southern-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of smoky hog jowl with creamy cheese grits, making for a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch. The smokiness of the hog jowl is balanced by the comforting warmth of the grits, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hog jowl (smoked), sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using warmed chicken broth.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add hog jowl strips and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Stir in grated cheese until melted and well combined.
4. Serve the smoky hog jowl on top of creamy grits. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hog Jowl-Stuffed Bell Peppers
This unique recipe combines the rich flavor of hog jowl with the natural sweetness of bell peppers, creating a delightful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound hog jowl, cooked and shredded
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine hog jowl, onion, garlic, rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the hog jowl mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a flavorful journey with these 18 savory hog jowl recipes! From classic comfort food to international twists, there’s something for every taste bud. Savor Southern-style fried jowl with collard greens or try a spicy gumbo with shrimp. Go bold with BBQ glazed sliders or cozy up with a hearty pinto bean soup. Explore global flavors with grilled skewers and pineapple glaze or rich lentil stew. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite for delicious and satisfying meals.