red oil pig ears

Spicy Pig Ear Salad: A Culinary Guide

Spicy pig ear, a beloved Chinese appetizer, delights with its crispy texture and fiery, aromatic flavors. Here’s a simple yet authentic recipe to recreate this dish at home.

Ingredients: 500g fresh pig ears, 3 tbsp chili oil, 2 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorn powder, 1 spring onion (chopped), and coriander for garnish. Optional: a pinch of sesame oil or vinegar for extra tang.

Steps:

1. Preparation: Clean pig ears thoroughly, then boil in water with ginger and scallions for 20 minutes until tender. Rinse under cold water and slice into thin, bite-sized strips.

2. Marinating: In a bowl, mix chili oil, light/dark soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and Sichuan peppercorn powder. Add pig ear strips and toss evenly. Let marinate for 15–20 minutes to absorb flavors.

3. Serving: Garnish with chopped spring onions and coriander. For enhanced taste, chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

Tips: For extra crunch, briefly blanch pig ears in ice water after boiling. Adjust spice levels by varying chili oil or adding sliced fresh chilies. This dish pairs perfectly with cold beer or as a side with congee.

Enjoy this zesty, crunchy delicacy that balances heat, umami, and freshness—a true crowd-pleaser!