Chicharrones - Tasting Fried Pork Skins

Chicharrones, or fried pork skins, comprise an integral part of the Mexican experience.  Although they are mainly eaten by children with some sort of spicy sauce, they are also a favorite treat for many adults.  I tried my first Chicharon the other day and I must say it met my expectations for greasiness and disgust.

One of our condo owners from Monterrey, Mexico was in town munching down on a bag of Chicharrones.  He offered me either the imitations made from fried flour or the real ones made from deep fried pig skin.  Although I was very hesitant I figured if I was going to try a Chicharron it might as well be authentic.  I put the small light brown, puffy treat into my mouth, and immediately I could taste warm fat.  It was absolutely disgusting.  As soon as it hit my taste buds my fingers went into my mouth and yanked it out.  Although I could have masked the taste with a red spicy sauce like Valentina's, there really was no point.  I didn't really want to eat it anyway.

As a child there was a short period when I enjoyed eating meat fat.  My grandmother on my Dad's side got me hooked.  I don't recall when or why I stopped, but eventually I outgrew this bad habit.  As an adult I can appreciate a good steak with nice fat marbling which adds to the flavor of the meat. However, eating straight fat not only tastes unsavory, it is also extremely unhealthy.

Many countries have unhealthy snacks.  In the US take fried twinkie for example. Many find them delicious but does that mean most anyone would like them?  I know that when my Mexican employees try US style cupcakes and cakes they say the frosting is way too sweet.  I guess when one is raised to like a particular taste or treat it can affect one's food predilections for life.

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Allan and Mauricio and a bag of Chicharrones

Chicharrones at a local restaurant

Demi

Demi

Mitzi

Mitzi

Mitzi and Demi

Mitzi and Demi

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