Pork rinds have been popular in the United States for many years, and their popularity has also been growing in other countries. In fact, according to market research firm Information Resources, Inc., pork rinds sales grew by 24.3% in early 2019.

If you haven't tried pork rinds yet, you might be wondering what they taste like. We let you in on the taste, texture, and more in this article.

What are Pork Rinds?

Let's start with what a pork rind is. Pork rinds are a type of snack food made from pork skin. They are typically fried or baked to make them crunchy, and they can be enjoyed either plain or with various dipping sauces. Pork rinds are a popular snack in many parts of the world, and they offer a satisfying crunch that is hard to resist.

ARE PORK RINDS CHIPS?

Technically, no. Chips are typically made from potatoes, corn, or other types of flour. Pork rinds, on the other hand, are made of pig skin. However, many people consider pork rinds a kind of chip because of their similar texture and taste.

PORK RINDS VS. PORK SKIN

There is no difference between pork rinds and pork skin as they are both made from the same thing — pork skin. The terms can be used interchangeably to refer to the popular deep-fried or baked snack. While “pork rinds” is the more common term used for it, some regions, such as the Deep South, refer to it as “pork skins” or simply “skins.”

Pork Rinds Taste and Texture

Pork rinds have a unique taste and texture that sets them apart from other snacks. They are light and airy, with a slightly salty flavor from the salt added during the curing process or from seasoning. Pork rinds are also very crunchy, making them a perfect snack for those who enjoy a little crunch in their food.

TASTE

Made from the skin of a pig, pork rinds have a taste similar to chicken skin. But others say they have a more fatty or porky flavor. Pork rinds can be flavored with various seasonings, such as salt, pepper, or barbecue sauce. Some say that pork rinds taste like potato chips, while others find the pork rinds to taste more fatty.

TEXTURE

Pork rinds are usually crispy and airy in texture. If you have them baked, you will notice slightly less oiliness in your mouth than those prepared by frying. They can also be ground into a powder, often used as a breading for fried foods.

What Tastes Good with Pork Rinds?

There are various ways to eat pork rinds, which can be paired with sweet and savory food. Some popular methods of eating pork rinds include dipping them in sauces or spreads, such as salsa or guacamole, or eating them plain. Pork rinds can also be used as a replacement for breadcrumbs in recipes or as a coating for fried foods.

How to Add Pork Rinds to Your Recipes

If you're looking for a way to add extra flavor and crunch to your recipes, pork rinds are a great option. They can be used as a breading for chicken or fish, added to soups or chili, or even eaten on their own as a snack.

PORK RINDS AS BREADING

Pork rinds make an excellent option for a low-carb alternative to traditional breading. They're packed with protein and crunchy texture that can help give your food a crispy coating. Plus, they're already seasoned, so you don't need to add any additional salt or spices. Here's how to use pork rinds as breading:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Crush or grind your pork rinds.
3. Spread a layer of pork rinds on a baking sheet and bake for about 5 minutes until they're crisp.
4. Allow the pork rinds to cool slightly, then place them in a shallow bowl or on a plate.
5. Coat your food in the pork rinds, evenly covering all sides.
6. Place the coated food on a baking sheet and bake as directed.

PORK RINDS IN SOUP

Pork rinds add a nice crunch and can help thicken the soup. Here are some tips on how to use pork rinds in soups and chili so you can elevate your meal's taste and texture:

1.  Add the pork rinds to the cooking end, so they don't get too soggy.
2.  If you want a finer texture, you can pulse the pork rinds in a food processor before adding them to the soup.
3.  Add extra seasoning to the pork rinds before adding them to give them more flavor.
4.  Pork rinds can also be used as a garnish and sprinkled on top of the soup.

PORK RINDS AS A SNACK

Pork rinds make for a delicious and crunchy snack that everyone can enjoy. They’re a low-carb, high-protein tasty treat that is perfect for munching on when you're hungry.

But before you dig in, here are some things to consider to make your pork rinds snack worth the extra calories. 

•    Choose your pork rinds wisely. Not all pork rinds are created equal! Look for brands that use high-quality ingredients and don't skimp on the flavor. (Here is a list of the best pork rinds)
•    Season your pork rinds to taste. Try dusting them with some chili powder or paprika for a spicy kick or go for a more classic flavor by sprinkling on some salt and pepper.
•    Serve your pork rinds with a dipping sauce or condiment of your choice. Some delicious options include sour cream, BBQ sauce (or choose one that's already BBQ flavored), or even ketchup.

Pork rinds are a delicious and versatile snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or used as an ingredient in other dishes. No matter how you want to eat your pork rinds, you’re sure to enjoy their taste and texture, and they will leave you wanting more.