Cleaning hog maws is not for the faint of heart. It requires a certain level of skill and experience in order to do it correctly. The job entails removing the membranes and fat from the hogs maw, cleaning it and then cooking it. If you’re up to the challenge, here’s a guide on how to clean hog maws.
What are Hog Maws?
Hog maws are the stomachs or paunches of hogs. They are sometimes referred to as chitterlings or chitlins. The hog maw is a delicacy in some parts of the world and is often served as a side dish or in soups. It is high in protein and is a good source of calcium, iron and B vitamins.
Tools Needed to Clean Hog Maws
Before you begin, it is important to gather the proper tools. You will need a sharp knife, a cutting board, paper towels, a large bowl to soak the hog maws in, and some rubber gloves. The gloves are important to protect your hands from the sharp edges of the maws and the fatty residue.
Steps to Clean Hog Maws
Once you have your supplies, you are ready to begin. The first step is to rinse the hog maws in cold water. This will help get rid of any excess dirt and debris. Next, you will need to trim off any fat that is attached to the maws. Use the knife to carefully remove the fat, being sure not to cut too deep.
Soaking the Hog Maws
Once the fat is removed, the next step is to soak the hog maws in cold water. This will help soften them and make them easier to clean. Place the maws in the large bowl and fill it with cold water. Allow it to soak for about 30 minutes. Once the maws are soft, you can begin to remove the membranes.
Removing the Membranes
The membranes are the thin, white layers that cover the maws. They need to be removed in order to make the maws edible. Use the knife to carefully cut away the membranes in a slow and deliberate motion. Be sure to be gentle and not to cut too deep. Once you have removed all of the membranes, you can rinse the maws with cold water to remove any excess fat and debris.
Cleaning the Hog Maws
After the membranes are removed, it is time to clean the hog maws. The best way to do this is to use a scrub brush and some warm water. Scrub the maws in circular motions to ensure that all the fat and debris is removed. Once you have finished scrubbing, rinse the maws with cold water and dry them with paper towels.
Cooking the Hog Maws
Once the hog maws are clean, they are ready to be cooked. The best way to cook them is to simmer them in a pot of water for about an hour. This will help to tenderize them and make them easier to eat. Once they are cooked, you can add them to soups or serve them as a side dish.
Conclusion
Cleaning hog maws is no easy task, but it is possible with the right tools and knowledge. Follow the steps outlined above and you should have no problem cleaning the maws and getting them ready for cooking. With a bit of practice, you can become an expert in cleaning hog maws in no time.