Aunt Bessie Chitterlings Recipe – Hungarian Chef

by Lori Walker, RD & Recipe Developer published on January 10, 2024

Aunt Bessie Chitterlings is one of the oldest recipes in the South. This traditional dish is a fan favorite for many people from the Southern United States. 

The dish is prepared by boiling pork intestines with seasonings, then served either as a side dish or as a main course. It is a delicious and comforting dish that has been a part of many family dinners for generations. Read on to learn how to make this. 

aunt bessie chitterlings recipe

What is Aunt Bessie Chitterlings?

Aunt Bessie’s is a frozen food company based in the United Kingdom. The brand is known for its range of frozen food products, including roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and other traditional British comfort foods. 

Aunt Bessie’s products are designed to make it easy for consumers to recreate classic and convenient home-cooked meals.

One of their famous dishes is the Chitterlings (Chitlins): A Southern Culinary Tradition Chitterlings, pronounced “chit-lins,” are a traditional Southern dish made from cleaned and prepared pig intestines. Aunt Bessie Chitterlings is a traditional Southern recipe that consists of pork intestines that are boiled and seasoned. 

The dish is usually served as a side dish or as a main course. It is a comfort food for many Southerners and is often served at family gatherings and holiday dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Aunt Bessie Chitterlings?

Aunt Bessie Chitterlings is a flavorful and comforting dish that is sure to please the whole family. This recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require any special ingredients or equipment. 

The dish is also very economical, as it can be made with inexpensive cuts of pork. Additionally, it is a great way to use up any leftover pork intestines that may be on hand.

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How Does it Taste Like?

Aunt Bessie Chitterlings has a savory and slightly sweet flavor that is enhanced by the herbs and spices used in the recipe. 

The dish has a rich and hearty taste that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. It is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to be a hit at any family gathering or holiday dinner.

Ingredients

Chitterlings:

Meticulously cleaned chitterlings serve as the culinary canvas for this recipe. Chitterlings, also known as chitlins, are thoroughly cleaned pig intestines, providing a unique and traditional base for this dish.

All-Purpose Flour:

All-purpose flour, the culinary alchemist’s powder, acts as a thickening agent. It helps create a rich and hearty consistency in the broth, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar, the tangy elixir, contributes acidity to balance the richness of the chitterlings. It adds a bright and tangy note, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Red Pepper Flakes:

Red pepper flakes are added for a spicy tango, providing a hint of heat to the dish. The spiciness complements the savory flavors and adds a layer of complexity to the chitterlings.

Chicken Broth:

Nutrient-rich chicken broth serves as the flavorful liquid base for the dish. It infuses the chitterlings with savory notes and provides depth to the overall broth.

Bold Black Pepper:

Bold black pepper adds an aromatic kick, contributing warmth and depth to the flavor profile. It complements the other spices and enhances the overall seasoning of the dish.

Large Onion:

A large onion, finely chopped, is included for the aromatic dance it brings to the recipe. The onion adds a sweet and savory flavor, enhancing the overall aroma and taste of the dish.

Bay Leaf:

The bay leaf introduces a fragrant note to the dish. It imparts a subtle earthy and herbal flavor, enhancing the complexity of the broth.

Cloves of Garlic:

Minced garlic provides a pungent whisper to the recipe. Garlic adds a robust and aromatic quality, elevating the overall savory profile of the chitterlings.

Wholesome Vegetable Oil:

Wholesome vegetable oil is used for cooking and sautéing. It contributes to the richness of the dish and helps distribute heat evenly during the cooking process.

Sea Salt:

Sea salt is incorporated for a hint of the ocean. It serves as a fundamental seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the chitterlings and ensuring a well-balanced taste.

aunt bessie chitterlings

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare Chitterlings:

Embark on your culinary adventure with 2.5 pounds of meticulously cleaned chitterlings. Begin by giving them a thorough rinse under cold running water to ensure they are pristine.

Step 2: Coat with Flour:

In a large bowl, envelop the cleaned chitterlings with 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. This step serves a dual purpose by coating the chitterlings and aiding in the removal of any lingering impurities.

Step 3: Soak in Vinegar Solution:

Create a cleansing elixir by combining 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water. Allow the chitterlings to luxuriate in this solution for about 30 minutes, enhancing their cleanliness.

Step 4: Rinse Again:

Post-soaking, give the chitterlings another rinse under cold water. This ensures that they emerge from this cleansing ritual impeccably clean and ready for the next steps.

Step 5: Prepare Aromatic Base:

In a pot, embark on the flavor journey by heating 1/4 cup of wholesome vegetable oil. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions reach a translucent state.

Step 6: Cooking Process:

Introduce the coated chitterlings to the aromatic base. Pour in 2 cups of nutrient-rich chicken broth. Season this flavorful concoction with 1/2 teaspoon of bold black pepper, 1.5 teaspoons of sea salt, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Elevate the aroma with the addition of a bay leaf.

Step 7: Simmer to Perfection:

Bring this symphony of flavors to a crescendo by allowing the mixture to boil. Subsequently, reduce the heat to a simmer, covering the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the chitterlings achieve the desired tenderness.

Step 8: Check Seasoning:

Engage your culinary senses by tasting and adjusting the seasoning if necessary. The simmering process allows the flavors to intermingle and harmonize.

Step 9: Serve Warm:

Once Aunt Bessie’s Chitterlings have attained the pinnacle of tenderness and flavor, present them to your eager audience while still warm.

Step 10: Enjoy:

Savor the rich and hearty flavors of Aunt Bessie’s Chitterlings. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a culinary voyage that captures the essence of tradition and taste, inviting you to revel in each delectable bite. Enjoy the experience!

Tips

– Make sure that the pork intestines are cleaned and trimmed properly before cooking.
– Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil to add flavor to the dish.
– Simmer the dish for at least an hour to ensure that the pork intestines are tender.
– Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey to the dish for a hint of sweetness and tanginess.
– Use hot sauce to balance out the flavors of the dish.

aunt bessie chitterlings

Nutrition Information

Aunt Bessie Chitterlings is a healthy and nutritious dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals. One serving of the dish contains approximately:
– 210 calories
– 11 grams of fat
– 10 grams of protein
– 6 grams of carbohydrates
– 2 grams of fiber
– 1 gram of sugar

How to Store Aunt Bessie Chitterlings?

Aunt Bessie Chitterlings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The dish can also be frozen for up to six months.

What Other Substitute Can I Use in Aunt Bessie Chitterlings?

If pork intestines are not available, you can substitute other cuts of pork such as pork belly or pork shoulder. You can also use beef or chicken for a different flavor. Additionally, you can use other types of broth such as beef or vegetable broth.

aunt bessie chitterlings

Aunt Bessie Chitterlings Recipe

Aunt Bessie Chitterlings is one of the oldest recipes in the South. This traditional dish is a fan favorite for many people from the Southern United States.
Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Keyword: aunt bessie chitterlings recipe
Servings: 4
Calories: 210kcal

Equipment

  •  Large pots
  • stirrer

Ingredients

  • 2.5 Pounds of Meticulously Cleaned Chitterlings the culinary canvas
  • 1/4 Cup of All-Purpose Flour the culinary alchemist’s powder
  • 2 Tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar the tangy elixir
  • 1/4 Teaspoon of Red Pepper Flakes for a spicy tango
  • 2 Cups of Nutrient-Rich Chicken Broth
  • 1/2 Teaspoon of Bold Black Pepper the aromatic kick
  • 1 Large Onion finely Chopped, for the aromatic dance
  • 1 Bay Leaf the fragrant note
  • 2 Cloves of Garlic Minced, the pungent whisper
  • 1/4 Cup of Wholesome Vegetable Oil
  • 1.5 Teaspoons of Sea Salt for a hint of the ocean

Instructions

  • Start with 2.5 pounds of meticulously cleaned chitterlings. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water.
  • In a large bowl, coat the cleaned chitterlings with 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. This helps in removing any remaining impurities.
  • Create a solution by combining 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water. Soak the chitterlings in this solution for about 30 minutes.
  • After soaking, rinse the chitterlings again under cold water to ensure they are clean.
  • In a pot, heat 1/4 cup of wholesome vegetable oil. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
  • Add the coated chitterlings to the pot. Pour in 2 cups of nutrient-rich chicken broth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of bold black pepper, 1.5 teaspoons of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Drop in a bay leaf for a fragrant note.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the chitterlings are tender.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The cooking process allows the flavors to meld.
  • Once Aunt Bessie’s Chitterlings are tender and flavorful, serve them warm.
  • Savor the rich and hearty flavors of Aunt Bessie’s Chitterlings. This dish is a culinary journey that captures the essence of tradition and taste.

Notes

  • Make sure that the pork intestines are cleaned and trimmed properly before cooking.
  • Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil to add flavor to the dish.
  • Simmer the dish for at least an hour to ensure that the pork intestines are tender.
  • Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey to the dish for a hint of sweetness and tanginess.
  • Use hot sauce to balance out the flavors of the dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best way to clean pork intestines?

A: The best way to clean pork intestines is to rinse them with cold water. You can also use a small brush to remove any debris.

Q: How long should Aunt Bessie Chitterlings be cooked for?

A: Aunt Bessie Chitterlings should be cooked for at least an hour to ensure that the pork intestines are tender.

Q: What herbs and spices are used in this recipe?

A: This recipe calls for thyme, oregano, rosemary, paprika, and bay leaves.

Q: What can I use instead of pork intestines?

A: If pork intestines are not available, you can substitute other cuts of pork such as pork belly or pork shoulder. You can also use beef or chicken for a different flavor.

Q: How can I make Aunt Bessie Chitterlings spicier?

A: To make Aunt Bessie Chitterlings spicier, you can add more hot sauce or other types of hot peppers.

Q: Can I freeze Aunt Bessie Chitterlings?

A: Yes, Aunt Bessie Chitterlings can be frozen for up to six months.

Q: What is the nutritional value of Aunt Bessie Chitterlings?

A: One serving of Aunt Bessie Chitterlings contains approximately 181 calories, 11 grams of fat, 10 grams of protein, 6 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of fiber, and 1 gram of sugar.

Conclusion

Aunt Bessie Chitterlings is a delicious and comforting dish that has been a part of Southern cuisine for generations. 

This traditional recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require any special ingredients or equipment. The pork intestines are simmered with herbs and spices to create a savory and slightly sweet flavor that is sure to please everyone. 

It is a great way to use up any leftover pork intestines and is a great addition to any family gathering or holiday dinner.

You’ll also like these latest recipes!
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Lori Walker is a passionate dietitian and food lover. She offers simple and nutritious recipes that don't take long to cook. In addition to sharing delicious dishes, she also shares useful advice on saving time and money in the kitchen. She believes that with a bit of creativity, anyone can make healthy meals that won't break the bank. Read more

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