Are you tired of finding pesky pig hair on your pork belly? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Many people struggle with removing hair from the skin of pig’s belly, especially when they pick it up from the butcher or grocer. But fear not, there are several methods you can use to remove hair from pork skin.
From scalding to shaving, blowtorching to searing, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll go over each method and provide some safety tips to help you through those annoying times in the kitchen.
So let’s dive in and learn how to remove hair from pork skin once and for all!
How To Remove Hair From Pork Skin?
Method 1: Scalding
The classic way to remove hair from a hog is to scald the carcass in hot water and scrape the hair off with a scraper, razor, or sharp knife. This traditional method remains the method of choice, but there are some issues involved.
To scald the pig’s skin, you’ll need to bring a large pot of water to a boil and then submerge the pork belly in the water for a few minutes. After scalding, use a scraper or sharp knife to remove the hair from the skin.
While this method is effective, it can be time-consuming and requires some skill to avoid damaging the skin.
Method 2: Shaving
Another way to remove hair from pork skin is by shaving it off. This method involves using a razor or sharp knife to shave the hair off the skin.
To shave the pig’s skin, hold it taut and use a razor or sharp knife to carefully shave off the hair. Be sure to use a clean and sharp blade to avoid damaging the skin.
While this method can be effective, it can also be time-consuming and requires some skill to avoid damaging the skin.
Method 3: Blowtorching
If you’re looking for a quicker method, blowtorching might be for you. This method involves using a blowtorch to burn off the hair from the skin.
To use this method, hold a blowtorch over the pig’s skin and move it back and forth until all of the hair has been burned off. Be sure to keep a safe distance from the skin and use caution when handling the blowtorch.
While this method is quick and effective, it can also be dangerous if not done properly. Use caution and follow all safety guidelines when using a blowtorch.
Method 4: Searing
Finally, you can remove hair from pork skin by searing it off. This method involves heating a cast iron skillet over high heat and searing off the hair by pressing down on the meat.
To use this method, heat up your cast iron skillet until it’s very hot. Then, place your pork belly in the skillet and press down on it with a spatula or other flat object. The heat will sear off any remaining hair on the skin.
While this method is quick and easy, it can also be messy and requires some skill to avoid damaging the meat.
Scalding Method
The scalding method is a traditional and effective way to remove hair from pork skin. To use this method, you’ll need to bring a large pot of water to a boil and then submerge the pork belly in the water for a few minutes. The water temperature should be between 56-61 DEG C, depending on the season.
After scalding, the hair will be loosened from the skin, making it easier to remove. Use a scraper or sharp knife to carefully scrape off the hair from the skin. For best results, add lime (Calcium Hydroxide) to the scalding water to loosen the hair roots and powdered rosin to give additional grip to the hair so that it will not be slippery and come out easily.
It’s important to note that this method requires some skill and attention to detail to avoid damaging the skin. If not done correctly, the hair may set and become difficult to remove, requiring you to finish the job by shaving.
Shaving Method
The shaving method is a great option for those who want to remove hair from the skin of pork belly without scalding or burning it. This method involves using a sharp knife or razor to shave off the hair from the skin.
To use this method, hold the pork belly taut and carefully shave off the hair using a clean and sharp blade. It’s important to be gentle and avoid damaging the skin while shaving.
While this method can take some time and skill, it’s a great option for those who want to remove hair without using heat or water. It’s also a good choice if you’re working with smaller pieces of pork belly that aren’t suitable for scalding or blowtorching.
Blowtorching Method
If you’re interested in using the blowtorching method to remove hair from pork skin, here’s how to do it:
First, make sure you have a blowtorch that is appropriate for cooking. A kitchen butane torch should work just fine. Next, place the pig on its back and hold the blowtorch over the skin. Move the flame back and forth until all of the hair has been burned off.
It’s important to keep a safe distance from the skin and to avoid burning any part of the pig while using this method. You should also be careful not to keep the torch in one spot for too long, as this can burn the meat.
While this method is quick and effective, it can be dangerous if not done properly. So, be sure to follow all safety guidelines when using a blowtorch.
Searing Method
The searing method is a quick and easy way to remove hair from pork skin. To use this method, you’ll need a cast iron skillet and a spatula or other flat object.
First, heat up your cast iron skillet until it’s very hot. Then, place your pork belly in the skillet and press down on it with a spatula or other flat object. The heat will sear off any remaining hair on the skin.
Be sure to use caution when handling the hot skillet and pressing down on the meat. This method can be messy, so be prepared for some splattering.
Safety Tips For Removing Hair From Pork Skin
Removing hair from pork skin can be a tricky and potentially dangerous task. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when removing hair from pork skin:
1. Use caution when handling sharp objects: Whether you’re using a scraper, razor, or sharp knife, it’s important to handle these tools with care. Make sure they’re sharp and clean, and use them with precision to avoid damaging the skin.
2. Wear protective gear: When using a blowtorch or searing method, it’s important to wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection to prevent burns or other injuries.
3. Keep a safe distance: When using a blowtorch, be sure to keep a safe distance from the skin to avoid burning yourself or the meat.
4. Work in a well-ventilated area: When using a blowtorch, make sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
5. Follow all safety guidelines: No matter which method you choose, it’s important to follow all safety guidelines and instructions carefully to avoid accidents or injuries.
By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can remove hair from pork skin safely and effectively.
