Caltaboș

Savor the rich flavors of Caltaboș, a traditional Romanian dish made with succulent pork belly and aromatic herbs, encased in natural hog casings. Perfect for festive gatherings or hearty family meals.

• 1 kg pork belly
• 300 g fatback
• 300 g rice
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 m hog casings

Method

1. 1

   Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, combine the pork belly, fatback, soaked rice, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

3. 3

   Rinse the hog casings thoroughly under cold water and soak them in water for about 30 minutes to make them pliable.

4. 4

   Stuff the mixture into the hog casings, making sure to leave some space for the filling to expand. Tie off the ends securely.

5. 5

   In a large pot of boiling water, gently place the stuffed casings and simmer for about 1.5 hours. Ensure they are not overcrowded.

6. 6

   Once cooked, remove the caltaboș from the pot and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

7. 7

   Slice and serve cold or at room temperature, often accompanied by pickles or mustard.