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Puerto Rican Cuajito Recipe
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Puerto Rican Cuajito Recipe

If you're looking to try a unique and traditional Puerto Rican dish, the Puerto Rican Cuajito Recipe is a must. This dish, made from pig’s intestines, might sound unusual to some, but it’s a beloved delicacy in Puerto Rico.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Pig Intestines = 02 pounds cuajito
  • Vinegar = 02 tablespoons for cleaning
  • Salt = 01 tablespoon for cleaning
  • Garlic = 03 cloves minced
  • Onion = large chopped
  • Green Bell Pepper = 01 chopped
  • Red Bell Pepper = 01 chopped
  • Tomatoes = 02 diced
  • Leaves = 02 bay
  • Oregano = 02 teaspoons dried
  • Cumin = 01 teaspoon
  • Adobo Seasoning = 01 teaspoon
  • Chicken Broth or Water = 02 cups
  • Olive Oil = 02 tablespoons
  • Sofrito = 1/4 cup for extra flavor (Optional)
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Colander 
  • Large Bowl
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Tongs
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Mixing Bowl (for soaking)

Method
 

  1. Step by Step Instructions:
Step 01: Clean the Intestines
  1. Rinse the pig intestines in cold water.
  2. Soak them in water with vinegar and salt for 30 minutes.
  3. Rinse again after soaking, and set the intestines aside.
Step 02: Prepare the Vegetables
  1. Chop the onion, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
  2. Mince the garlic and keep all vegetables ready.
Step 03: Cook the Intestines
  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic, onions, and bell peppers. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the intestines and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
Step 04: Add Seasonings
  1. Stir in tomatoes, bay leaves, oregano, cumin, and adobo seasoning.
  2. Add sofrito if you want more flavor.
Step 05: Add Broth and Simmer
  1. Pour the broth or water to cover the intestines.
  2. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer.
  3. Cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until tender.
Step 06: Season to Taste
  1. Once tender, taste the dish and adjust seasoning.
  2. Add salt and pepper if needed.
Step 07: Serve
  1. Use tongs to serve the cuajito.
  2. Serve it hot with rice or tostones.
Servings and Preparation Times
  1. Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  2. Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
  3. Total Time: Approximately 3-3.5 hours
  4. Serves: This recipe serves 4-6 people depending on portion sizes. It’s a filling dish, so even a small serving goes a long way.

Notes

  • Clean the Intestines Thoroughly: Cleaning the intestines is the most important step. Rinse them well, then soak them in water with vinegar and salt to remove any impurities. Be sure to rinse them again after soaking.
  • Cook on Low Heat: Slow cooking is key for this recipe. The intestines need time to become tender and absorb the flavors of the broth and spices. Patience will pay off when you get that perfect texture.
  • Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the spices. Garlic, oregano, and bay leaves are great choices to give the dish a flavorful base. Puerto Rican cuisine often uses adobo and sofrito, so feel free to add those for extra taste.
  • Serve with Traditional Sides: Cuajito pairs wonderfully with white rice, tostones (fried plantains), or even a side of beans. These sides help balance out the rich flavors of the dish.
  • Add Vegetables: You can include vegetables like onions, peppers, and tomatoes in the stew to add more flavor and texture. They blend well with the cuajito and make the dish more hearty.