Qingyan Braised Pork Trotters (青岩卤猪蹄) is a traditional delicacy from Qingyan Town, Guizhou Province, China, renowned for its unique texture and rich flavor that captivates countless food enthusiasts. Legend has it that during the late Qing Dynasty, a resident of Qingyan named Zhao Yijiong went to Beijing for the imperial examination. Before departing, his mother prepared a pot of braised pig’s trotters for him to eat on the journey. As fate would have it, Zhao Yijiong achieved the top honor and became the provincial champion. As a result, the locals of Qingyan affectionately refer to braised pig’s trotters as “Champion’s Trotters.”
These braised pig’s trotters are notable for their large size, with the skin extending a bit, and their reddish-brown color, achieved through the use of special spices native to Qingyan and simmering over low heat. In terms of texture, the skin of the braised pig’s trotters is crispy while the meat is tender, offering a delightful mouthfeel with every bite. During the preparation process, the pig’s trotters are marinated with ten precious Chinese medicinal herbs, including star anise, cinnamon, zanthoxylum, peppercorns, cloves, and nutmeg. These herbs not only impart a unique aroma to the trotters during braising but also provide nourishing benefits to the body.
Moreover, Qingyan Braised Pork Trotters are often served with a special dipping sauce. This sauce is made from mashed chili peppers, double-flowered vinegar, minced ginger, chopped scallions, and sometimes soy sauce or fish mint to enhance the flavor. Mashed chili peppers, beloved by the people of Guizhou, contribute their distinctive spiciness and aroma, complementing the flavor of the braised trotters and elevating the overall dish to new heights of deliciousness.
In Qingyan, this dish is not only a culinary delight but also carries cultural significance, symbolizing success and celebration. Whether enjoyed as a special treat during festive occasions or as a comforting meal shared with loved ones, Qingyan Braised Pork Trotters continue to hold a cherished place in the hearts and palates of those who savor its exquisite taste and rich heritage.