Delicious and Authentic Caribbean Souse Recipe

Ingredients

2 lbs. of pig's feet
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 stalks of celery, finely chopped
1 large carrot, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 lime, juiced
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon of whole cloves
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1 hot pepper, chopped (optional)
8 cups of water
1/2 cup of white vinegar
1/2 bunch of parsley, finely chopped

Steps and instructions

Clean the pig's feet thoroughly and place them in a large pot.
Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, garlic, lime juice, bay leaves, cloves, salt, and pepper to the pot.
If you like your Souse spicy, add the chopped hot pepper to the pot.
Next, add the water to the pot, ensuring that the pig's feet are completely covered.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 3 hours or until the pig's feet are tender and the broth is flavorful.
While the pot is simmering, periodically skim off the foam that rises to the top.
Once the pig's feet are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool.
After the soup has cooled, strain the broth into a large bowl, reserving the pig's feet and discarding the remainder of the solids.
Chop the cooked pig's feet into small pieces and return them to the strained broth.
Add the white vinegar and chopped parsley to the broth and stir to combine.
Refrigerate the Souse for at least 8 hours, or overnight, so that the flavors can meld and the broth can gel.
Before serving, skim off any fat that has solidified on the surface.
Serve the Souse chilled, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Tools for making

Large pot - You will need a large pot to cook the pig's feet and simmer the ingredients.
Knife - A sharp knife will be necessary for chopping the onion, celery, carrot, garlic, and parsley.
Cutting board - Use a cutting board to safely chop the vegetables and herbs.
Strainer - A strainer will be needed to strain the broth and separate the cooked pig's feet from the solids.
Large bowl - You will need a large bowl to strain the broth and mix it with the chopped pig's feet.
Refrigerator - The Souse needs to be refrigerated for at least 8 hours, so a refrigerator is necessary.

Recipe variations

Use chicken feet instead of pig's feet for a milder flavor.
Add diced potatoes or yams to the soup for some extra heartiness.
Include other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or okra for added flavor and texture.
Experiment with different spices such as thyme, allspice, or paprika to customize the flavor profile.
For a tangier taste, increase the amount of lime juice or vinegar.
Make it spicier by adding more hot peppers or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Try using apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly sweeter undertone.
For a meat-free option, replace the pig's feet with firm tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of water.
Include some smoked meat or bacon for a smoky flavor.
Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or cilantro.

Recipe overview

Souse is a traditional Caribbean soup made with pig's feet and infused with a variety of flavors from aromatic vegetables, lime, and spices. This recipe takes you through each step of preparing this unique and flavorful dish. Expect to spend some time preparing and cooking, as Souse is best when allowed to simmer slowly, letting all the flavors meld together. The result is a rich, tangy soup that's layered with flavors and has a delightful, jelly-like texture. Served chilled, Souse is refreshingly different and makes for a unique appetizer or light meal. Despite its unusual main ingredient, don't be surprised if it quickly becomes a favorite!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of pig's feet?
Yes, you can use other cuts of pork such as pig's ears, snout, or tail if you prefer. However, pig's feet are traditional for making Souse.
Is it necessary to soak the pig's feet before cooking?
No, it is not necessary to soak the pig's feet before cooking. Cleaning them thoroughly is sufficient.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime?
While fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lime juice as a substitute if needed.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness of the Souse can be adjusted to your preference. If you enjoy heat, you can add the optional chopped hot pepper. Otherwise, you can omit it for a milder flavor.
How long does the Souse need to be refrigerated?
It is best to refrigerate the Souse for at least 8 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the broth to gel.
Can I freeze the Souse?
Yes, you can freeze the Souse. Make sure to store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - To cook the pig's feet and simmer the soup.
Cutting board - For chopping the onion, celery, carrot, and parsley.
Knife - To chop the vegetables and cut the pig's feet into small pieces.
Juicer - To extract the juice from the lime.
Strainer - To separate the solids from the broth.
Large bowl - To strain and store the broth.
Refrigerator - To chill the Souse and allow it to set.
Skimmer or spoon - To remove any foam or fat from the surface of the soup.

Origin stories

Souse, a delicious and unique dish, finds its roots in Caribbean cuisine. It was traditionally made using parts of the pig that were left over after more desirable cuts were used. This was common in poorer communities where nothing could go to waste. The pig's feet used in Souse are not only tasty but rich in collagen, which gives the soup its characteristic gelatinous texture upon cooling. In its birthplace, this dish is often enjoyed as a weekend breakfast or late-night snack after a lively carnival or party. It is a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of Caribbean cooks, who could take simple, humble ingredients and transform them into something wonderfully flavorful and satisfying. It's often said that the sign of a true and accomplished chef in the Caribbean, is one who can make a pot of Souse that is both flavorful and comforting.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.