Pork rinds are a delicious snack that can be enjoyed in many ways. You can eat them plain, dip them in salsa, or use them as a low-carb substitute for breadcrumbs. But did you know that you can also microwave pork rinds to make them hot and crispy? In this post, we will show you how to microwave pork rinds in a few easy steps.
To microwave pork rinds, you need to place them in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate and cook them for 1 to 2 minutes until they are puffed and crispy. You can also season them with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices before or after microwaving.
Microwaving pork rinds is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this snack without having to deep-fry them or buy them pre-packaged. Here are some tips and tricks to make the best microwave pork rinds at home.
How to Choose the Best Pork Rinds for Microwaving
Pork rinds are made from pig skin that is boiled, dried, and fried until it becomes crunchy. You can find pork rinds in different forms, such as:
- Pork rind pellets: These are small pieces of dried pork skin that expand when cooked. They are usually sold in bulk or online and have a long shelf life. They are ideal for microwaving because they puff up and become crispy in a short time.
- Pre-packaged pork rinds: These are ready-to-eat pork rinds that come in various flavors and sizes. They are convenient and tasty, but they may lose some of their crispiness over time. You can microwave them to restore their crunchiness, but be careful not to overcook them or they may burn.
- Homemade pork rinds: These are pork rinds that you make from scratch using fresh pork skin. You can boil, dry, and fry the skin yourself, or buy it already prepared from a butcher or a specialty store. Homemade pork rinds are the freshest and most flavorful, but they require more time and effort to make.
Depending on your preference and availability, you can choose any of these types of pork rinds for microwaving. However, we recommend using pork rind pellets or homemade pork rinds for the best results.
How to Season Pork Rinds for Microwaving
One of the best things about pork rinds is that you can season them with any spices or herbs you like. You can either season them before or after microwaving, depending on how strong you want the flavor to be.
Some of the most popular seasonings for pork rinds are:
- Salt and pepper: A classic combination that enhances the natural flavor of pork rinds.
- Barbecue: A sweet and smoky seasoning that adds a tangy kick to pork rinds.
- Chili: A spicy seasoning that adds some heat and zest to pork rinds.
- Cheese: A cheesy seasoning that adds some creaminess and richness to pork rinds.
- Garlic: A savory seasoning that adds some depth and aroma to pork rinds.
You can also mix and match different seasonings to create your own custom flavor. For example, you can try salt and vinegar, ranch, sour cream and onion, or cinnamon sugar.
To season pork rinds before microwaving, you need to sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the pork rinds on the plate. To season pork rinds after microwaving, you need to transfer the hot pork rinds to a large bowl and toss them with the seasoning until well coated.
How to Store Leftover Pork Rinds
If you have any leftover pork rinds after microwaving, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, they may lose some of their crispiness over time.
To reheat leftover pork rinds, you can microwave them again for 10 to 15 seconds until they are warm and crunchy. Alternatively, you can bake them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 10 minutes until they are crisp.
FAQs
Are microwave pork rinds healthy?
Microwave pork rinds are not exactly healthy, but they are not as bad as you may think. They are high in protein and low in carbs, which makes them suitable for keto and low-carb diets. However, they are also high in fat, sodium, and calories, which may not be good for your heart health or weight management. Therefore, you should enjoy microwave pork rinds in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Can I use bacon instead of pork skin for making microwave pork rinds?
No, bacon is not a good substitute for pork skin for making microwave pork rinds. Bacon is made from cured pork belly that has more fat and meat than skin. If you try to microwave bacon, it will not puff up like pork skin but rather shrink and curl up. Moreover, bacon has more salt and preservatives than pork skin, which may affect the taste and quality of the pork rinds.
What can I do with the leftover fat from microwaving pork rinds?
The leftover fat from microwaving pork rinds is called lard, which is a type of animal fat that can be used for cooking and baking. Lard has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, which makes it ideal for frying, roasting, and pastry making. You can store the lard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month or in the freezer for up to a year. You can also use the lard to make soap, candles, or bird feeders.
Conclusion
Microwave pork rinds are a delicious and easy snack that you can make at home in minutes. All you need are some pork rinds, a microwave-safe plate, and your favorite seasonings. You can enjoy them as they are or dip them in salsa, guacamole, or cheese sauce. Microwave pork rinds are also great for adding crunch and flavor to salads, soups, casseroles, and more.
If you love pork rinds and want to try something different, give microwave pork rinds a try. You will be amazed by how simple and satisfying they are.
