Trotters, also known as pig’s feet, are a popular delicacy in many cultures around the world. They are especially loved for their rich and gelatinous texture, which adds depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. In South Africa, trotters are commonly used in traditional dishes such as trotter curry, trotter stew, and trotter soup. If you’re new to cooking trotters, fear not! In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking trotters to perfection, ensuring a delectable and flavorful result.
Preparing Trotters
Before cooking trotters, it is important to clean and prepare them properly. Start by trimming any excess fat or hair from the trotters. Then, rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This step helps remove any impurities and ensures a clean and hygienic final product.
Once the trotters are clean, you can choose to cut them into smaller pieces for easier cooking or leave them whole for presentation purposes. It’s important to note that trotters contain a high amount of gelatin, which gives them their unique texture. This gelatin is released during the cooking process, making the dish more flavorful and creating a rich sauce or broth.
Flavorful Marinade
Marinating trotters not only enhances their flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. In a bowl, combine your choice of spices, herbs, and seasonings to create a flavorful marinade. Some popular options include garlic, ginger, turmeric, paprika, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to help break down the collagen and make the trotters more tender.
Coat the trotters thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring all sides are well coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination can yield even better results. The longer the trotters marinate, the more flavors they will absorb, resulting in a more tantalizing dish.
Cooking Methods
There are several cooking methods you can employ to cook trotters, depending on the recipe you’re following or your personal preference. Here are three popular methods:

1. Stovetop Simmer
In a large pot, heat some oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and any other aromatics you desire, such as bay leaves or cinnamon sticks. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and aromatic.
Add the marinated trotters to the pot and sear them on all sides until they develop a deep brown color. This step helps enhance the flavor and texture of the trotters.
Next, add enough liquid to cover the trotters. This could be water, broth, or even coconut milk for a creamy twist. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the trotters to simmer gently for 2-3 hours, or until they become tender and the meat starts to fall off the bones.
2. Pressure Cooker Magic
If you’re looking for a quicker cooking method, a pressure cooker can be your best friend. After marinating the trotters, heat some oil in the pressure cooker and sauté the aromatics.
Add the trotters to the pressure cooker and pour in enough liquid to cover them. Seal the pressure cooker and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, trotters take around 45 minutes to an hour to cook under pressure.
Once the trotters are tender, carefully release the pressure and check if the meat easily separates from the bones. If not, cook for another few minutes.
Oven-Baked Delights
Baking trotters in the oven is another option that yields delicious results. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the marinated trotters in a baking dish or roasting pan.
Add any desired vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers, around the trotters. Sprinkle some additional spices or herbs over the trotters and vegetables for added flavor.
Cover the dish with foil or a lid and bake for approximately 2 hours. Remove the foil or lid and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the trotters are tender and nicely browned.
Serving and Enjoying Trotters
Once the trotters are cooked to perfection, it’s time to savor their deliciousness. You can serve them as a main course accompanied by rice, bread, or mashed potatoes. The rich sauce or broth from cooking trotters is perfect for spooning over the accompaniments, adding depth and a burst of flavor.
For an authentic South African twist, serve trotters with chakalaka, a spicy vegetable relish, and enjoy the perfect combination of flavors. Remember to garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, to enhance the presentation and taste.
Now that you know how to cook trotters, it’s time to embrace the flavors and textures they offer. With a little bit of preparation and patience, you can create a mouthwatering dish that showcases the best of South African cuisine. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure with trotters!

Hello, I’m Sibusiso, the insightful blogger behind AskHub.co.za, based in South Africa. My focus revolves around the latest news and essential topics such as grants and NSFAS-related matters. Through my articles, I strive to provide a beacon of clarity and guidance, offering informed perspectives on crucial issues. Join me on AskHub.co.za