Piquant Pork Heart Salad

This piquant pork heart salad is a delightful and unique dish that brings together a variety of flavors for an exciting culinary experience. Tender pork hearts play the starring role, providing a robust and hearty texture that is perfectly complemented by the fresh crunch of onions, tangy pickled cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes. A blend of ketchup and mayonnaise adds creaminess and a slight tang, unifying the components into a harmonious whole. Quick to make from easily found ingredients, the salad can be both a colorful appetizer or a substantial meal. Reminiscent of Eastern European cuisine, it is ideal for those looking to try something new and off the beaten path. The salad’s complexity is hidden behind its simple preparation, making it accessible even to novice cooks. With its balanced blend of savory, tangy, and fresh elements, this salad is sure to be a centerpiece at any table. Thoroughly understanding the preparation will ensure a perfect outcome every time. Follow the detailed instructions for a sure-hit on your first attempt.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Pork hearts
• Onions
• Pickled cucumbers
• Tomatoes

Sauces

• Ketchup
• Mayonnaise

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 180 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Pork Hearts: Begin by thoroughly washing the pork hearts under running water. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 2 hours until the hearts are tender but not falling apart.
2. Rest and Slice the Hearts: After boiling, allow the pork hearts to cool in the pot before removing them to slice. Cut them into thin strips for easier mixing in the salad.
3. Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and slice them finely, aiming for thin, even pieces that will blend seamlessly into the salad mixture.
4. Slice the Pickled Cucumbers: Take your pickled cucumbers and cut them into thin julienne strips. This preparation will add a pleasant crunch and tang to each bite of the salad.
5. Dice the Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes and cut them into small cubes. This will add a juicy, refreshing contrast to the heavier textures.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced pork hearts, onions, pickled cucumbers, and diced tomatoes.
7. Add Sauces: Include a generous amount of ketchup and mayonnaise to the mixture to taste. The aim is to coat all ingredients evenly for a cohesive flavor profile.
8. Mix Thoroughly: Use a large spoon or spatula to gently mix all the ingredients together, ensuring that the sauces are evenly distributed.
9. Taste and Adjust: Sample the mixture to determine if additional seasoning is required. Adjust with more ketchup, mayonnaise, or a pinch of salt and pepper as needed.
10. Presentation: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for color and aroma before serving.
11. Chill Before Serving: If time allows, refrigerate the salad for an hour to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
12. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad as an appetizer or a main dish and enjoy the flavor journey it offers.

Tips

• Substitutions: If pork hearts are unavailable, chicken or beef hearts can be used as alternatives.
• Texture Balance: Be careful not to overcook the meat to maintain the ideal texture.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbs: 10g

Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace the pork hearts with grilled and marinated eggplants and zucchini for a plant-based alternative.
• Spicy Twist: Add finely chopped chili peppers for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Serve with crusty bread or alongside a green salad for a refreshing balance.
• Pairings: Complements a chilled white wine or a light lager beautifully.

Best Places

• Cafe Central - A perfect spot for hearty ethnic dishes offering a delightful twist on classics. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Cafe Pushkin - An elegant venue known for sophisticated Eastern European cuisine. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
• Domini Restaurant - Cozy, with a menu full of traditional flavors and contemporary techniques. Location: Vana-Viru 8, Tallinn, Estonia.
• U Kroka - Charming establishment known for rustic and comforting meals. Location: Vratislavova 12, Prague, Czech Republic.
• Szara Ges - Offers a fusion of traditional and modern tastes in a picturesque setting. Location: Rynek Główny 17, Krakow, Poland.
• Zetor - Known for its quirky atmosphere and robust meals. Location: Mannerheimintie 3-5, Helsinki, Finland.
• Zahav - A standout with its unique take on Eastern flavors. Location: 237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, USA.
• Paprika Vintage Kitchen & Wine - Offers vivid flavors in a charmingly retro ambiance. Location: 47/, Semmelweis u. 48/D, Budapest, Hungary.
• Zgoda Club & Restaurant - Intimate and stylish, offering well-crafted dishes. Location: Krajewskiego 2, Wrocław, Poland.
• Chimera - Bright and airy, known for its creative yet traditional dishes. Location: Św. Anny 3, Kraków, Poland.