Master the Art of Cooking Hog Jowl in the Microwave with These Simple Steps!

I have always been a fan of cooking and experimenting with new recipes in my kitchen. One of my favorite things to cook is hog jowl. Hog jowl is a delicious cut of meat that comes from the cheek of a pig. It is a popular ingredient in Southern cuisine and is known for its rich, smoky flavor. While traditionally, hog jowl is cooked low and slow, I have recently discovered a quick and easy way to cook it in the microwave. In this article, I will share with you my simple steps for mastering the art of cooking hog jowl in the microwave.

Table of Contents

Prepare the Hog Jowl

Before cooking the hog jowl, it is important to prepare it properly. Start by rinsing the hog jowl under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat it dry with paper towels. Next, using a sharp knife, score the fat side of the hog jowl in a crisscross pattern. This will help the fat render and add a nice crispy texture to the meat. Once the hog jowl is prepared, it is ready to be cooked in the microwave.

Cooking the Hog Jowl in the Microwave

Step 1: Season the Hog Jowl

Start by seasoning the hog jowl with your favorite spices and seasonings. I like to use a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the seasonings all over the hog jowl, making sure to get it evenly coated. This will enhance the flavor of the meat and infuse it with delicious spices.

Step 2: Place the Hog Jowl in a Microwave-Safe Dish

Next, place the seasoned hog jowl in a microwave-safe dish. Make sure the dish is big enough to accommodate the size of the hog jowl and has a lid or cover to prevent any splattering.

Step 3: Cook on High Power

Cover the dish with the lid and place it in the microwave. Cook the hog jowl on high power for about 10 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the hog jowl, so it’s best to keep an eye on it and adjust the cooking time if needed.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

After 10 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and check the internal temperature of the hog jowl using a meat thermometer. The hog jowl is considered done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If it has not reached the desired temperature, you can continue cooking it in the microwave in 2-minute intervals until it does.

Step 5: Let it Rest

Once the hog jowl reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy piece of meat.

Serving Suggestions

Now that the hog jowl is perfectly cooked, it’s time to enjoy it! Here are a few serving suggestions to help you savor its deliciousness:

Slice the hog jowl into thin strips and serve it as a main course alongside some mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.

Chop the hog jowl into small pieces and use it as a flavorful addition to your favorite pasta dish.

Make a classic Southern-style sandwich with sliced hog jowl, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on toasted bread.

Conclusion

With just a few simple steps, you can master the art of cooking hog jowl in the microwave. By properly preparing and seasoning the hog jowl, cooking it on high power, and checking for doneness, you can enjoy a delicious and flavorful piece of meat in no time. So why not give it a try? Whip up some hog jowl in your microwave and treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal that will leave you craving for more!