• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Recipes by Nora
  • Recipe Index
  • About me
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • About me
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipe Index
    • About me
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Ingredient Guides

    Pork Chicharon: A Crunchy Filipino Classic

    Published: Oct 21, 2023 by Nora Reyes · This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. · 2 Comments

    8 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    If you have noticed, pork holds a special place in Filipino cuisine. There are dishes like lechon and adobo highlighting its prominence, but one snack is incredibly simple, irresistibly crunchy – Chicharon. Let's explore more about it.

    Chicharon with pork rinds and cracklings
    Chicaron with pork rinds and cracklings
    Jump to:
    • What is chicharon?
    • Is chicharon the same as chicharrón?
    • Is chicharon the same as pork rinds or cracklings?
    • How is chicharon made?
    • Is chicharon healthy?
    • Chicharon variations
    • Filipino recipes with chicharon
    • Other ingredient guides you may like
    • 💬 Comments

    What is chicharon?

    Chicharon, in its simplest form, is deep-fried pork skin. When it's fried, the skin puffs up and becomes a crispy snack many find hard to resist. It's eaten as a snack, but it's a big hit as "pulutan", a side dish for alcoholic drinks in the Philippines.

    You can find chicharon being sold everywhere – from street vendors to sari-sari stores and in supermarkets. If you're feeling ambitious, you can also try making it at home.

    It is often enjoyed with a side of vinegar dip for an added kick. It is also used as a crunchy topping for dishes like Pancit Palabok, Arroz Caldo, and Ginisang Munggo.

    Freshly packaged chicharon sold as street food
    Freshly packaged chicharon sold as street food

    Is chicharon the same as chicharrón?

    Chicharon bears a resemblance to chicharrón or chicharrones found in Latin American countries and Spain. In Mexico, it's commonly enjoyed as a snack. In Colombia, their chicharron is similar to the Filipino bagnet and is typically paired with beans, rice, and sweet plantains.

    Chicharon or Chicharrones in packages
    Chicharon or Chicharrones

    In the Philippines, chicharon has many forms. It can mean just the crispy skin or even include a bit of fat and meat. Some are puffy like clouds, while others are flatter and super crunchy. Think of it as an umbrella term with many delicious variations.

    Is chicharon the same as pork rinds or cracklings?

    Chicharon, pork rinds, and cracklings are all terms associated with deep-fried pork products, but they have distinct characteristics.

    In the Philippines, chicharon is a general term that can refer to what many know as pork rinds or cracklings. Its preparation and texture can differ based on regional or traditional methods.

    Pork rinds are made from pork skin only, then deep-fried until they're light and crispy. In the U.S., they're a popular snack, sometimes labeled as "chicharrones."

    Pork rinds
    Pork rinds

    Cracklings, often called "cracklins" in the Southern U.S., are a bit more substantial. They not only contain the skin but also incorporate bits of fat and occasionally small fragments of meat, giving them a thicker and chewier consistency.

    Pork cracklings
    Pork cracklings

    How is chicharon made?

    Traditionally, chicharon is prepared by first cleaning the pork skin and boiling until tender. Once boiled, it's left to dry for several hours.

    The dried skin is then deep-fried in hot oil or lard until it turns a golden brown and puffs up to its crispy texture. It is then seasoned with salt, though other spices can also be used to enhance its flavor.

    Is chicharon healthy?

    Chicharon, made from pork rinds, is a popular snack in many cultures. According to Healthline, pork rinds are notably high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

    However, they lack essential vitamins and minerals and contain a significant amount of saturated fats. Being a processed snack, they can be high in sodium and might include artificial additives, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

    Reasearch from Healthline suggests that regular consumption of fried foods, often high in calories and trans fats, can lead to various health complications, with the severity of risk rising with increased intake.

    Moderation is important. While occasional indulgence can be part of a varied diet, it's always best to consult with a medical professional about personal dietary choices and health concerns.

    Chicharon being dipped in vinegar.
    Chicharon and sawsawan, a vinegar-based dipping sauce

    Chicharon variations

    Here are some of the well-known variations:

    • Chicharon Baboy: This is perhaps the most traditional type, made with just the pig's skin or with some attached fat and meat. After deep-frying until crispy, it's seasoned and often enjoyed with spiced vinegar.
    • Chicharon with Laman: This version has bits of meat attached to the crispy skin, giving it a slightly chewier texture.
    • Chicharon Manok (Chicken Skin): This one is made from chicken skin, deep-fried until golden brown and seasoned for a savory flavor.
    • Chicharon Bulaklak: Made from the mesentery (ruffled fat) of the pig, this variety is deep-fried until it becomes crispy. Its unique appearance resembles flowers or "bulaklak," the Filipino term for "flower." It's a popular beer match or "pulutan" in the Philippines and is best paired with spiced vinegar.
    • Chicharon Bituka: This type is made from pig intestines that are thoroughly cleaned, boiled, and then deep-fried until crispy. Just like other varieties, it's often served with a side of spiced vinegar and is popular as a snack during drinking sessions.
    • Bagnet: A specialty from the Ilocos region, bagnet is a cross between lechon kawali and chicharon. It's typically double-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior.
    • Chicharon Isda (Fish Chicharon): Made from dried fish skin, this version is deep-fried to achieve a light and crispy texture. It offers a distinctive seafood flavor, making it a favorite snack for those seeking an alternative.
    • Chicharabao: From water buffalo or "carabao," this variant is less mainstream, highlighting the culinary diversity in the Philippines. It's prepared similarly, with a unique taste and texture.
    • Shrimp Kropek: While not a traditional chicharon, this ground shrimp-based snack has a light, crunchy bite and a distinct seafood flavor.
    Chicken skin (chicharon manok) sold as street food
    Chicken skin (chicharon manok) sold as street food

    Filipino recipes with chicharon

    Chicharon is not only enjoyed on its own but is also used in various Filipino dishes. Here are some examples:

    • La Paz Batchoy: A rich noodle soup from La Paz, Iloilo, it consists of miki noodles and pork meat or offal in a flavorful broth. It is garnished with garlic, scallions, and crushed chicharon.
    • Pancit Palabok: Rice noodles with a rich, savory sauce infused with shrimp and tinapa (smoked fish) flakes. It has various toppings like shrimp, pork, tofu, egg, and crumbled chicharon.
    • Pinakbet: A flavorful vegetable braise with squash, eggplant, okra, ampalaya, and yardlong beans, typically flavored with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Chicaron is a wonderful addition, adding more flavor and a crunchy element.
    • Arroz Caldo: A comforting chicken and ginger rice porridge. While traditionally garnished with scallions, fried garlic, and boiled egg, adding chicharon provides a contrast in texture and flavor.
    • Goto: A rice porridge made with beef tripe. Garnish it with chicharon for an exciting contrast in texture and flavor.
    • Lomi: A hearty wheat or egg noodle soup with an assortment of proteins (chicken, pork, and shrimp), thickened with cornstarch and beaten eggs. A sprinkling of chicharon on top adds a crispy contrast.
    • Ginisang Munggo: A mung bean stew traditionally made with pork, but some versions add chicharon for added flavor and crunch.
    • Sisig: A flavorful dish typically made with grilled pork parts, or other proteins like bangus, tuna, or tofu. It is served with calamansi, chilies, and sometimes chicharon for added crunch.
    • Vegetable Sauté or Stir Fry(Ginisang Gulay): Just like adding meat or another protein to vegetable sautés and stir-fries, like Ginisang Sayote or Ginisang Togue, chicharon makes them even more flavorful and satisfying.
    Sisig topped with chicharon
    Sisig topped with chicharon

    Chicharon is a favorite snack in the Philippines. It's loved for its crispy texture and many different flavors. Perfect to eat by itself or dipped in vinegar, but also a delicious addition to various dishes.

    You can find it everywhere, from streets to homes. This beloved snack is a testament to its timeless appeal in Filipino culture.

    Other ingredient guides you may like

    • Pouring soy sauce on a saucer plate.
      Soy Sauce: A Filipino Kitchen Staple
    • Banana Blossom on a banana tree.
      Banana Blossom: The Unlikely Vegetable
    • Whole and cracked opened Tamarind.
      Tamarind: A Staple in Filipino Cuisine
    • Rice Flour in a bowl.
      Rice Flour: A Staple in Filipino Snacks and Desserts

    Did you like this post? I would love to know! Your feedback helps me make better recipes.  Please rate, review, or comment below. Questions about this post are welcome, too!

    Let's connect on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, Twitter, and Youtube. Be sure to tag me when you try any of my recipes @recipesbynora!

    More Ingredient Guides

    • Coconut cracked open with macapuno inside.
      Macapuno: The Coconut Mutant
    • Panutsa
      Panutsa: From Sugarcane to Sweet Treat
    • Lemongrass on a wooden table.
      Lemongrass in Filipino Cooking
    • Shiitake mushrooms
      Shiitake Mushrooms
    8 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    About the author

    Hi, I'm Nora! 

    Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

    Learn more about me →

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Mike

      October 21, 2023 at 10:03 pm

      I like this post. Thank you

      Reply
      • Nora Reyes

        October 21, 2023 at 10:04 pm

        Hello Mike, I appreciate that! Thank you so much!

        Reply

    Thanks for coming! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating





    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Nora! Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • Grilled Pork Belly on a plate with pickled vegetables and spicy vinegar dipping sauce.
      Inihaw na Liempo Recipe
    • Beef stir fry with onions and peppers in a wok zoomed in.
      Beef Stir Fry with Onions & Peppers
    • Mackerel on Olive oil on a plate.
      Mackerel in Olive Oil
    • Beef Caldereta topped on a rice served on a plate.
      Beef Caldereta Recipe
    • Buko Pandan on a glass dish cup topped with ice cream covered be rice crisps.
      Buko Pandan Salad Recipe
    • Assorted Filipino foods on a table covered in banana leaf for a Kamayan Feast.
      Kamayan Feast: Bringing Family and Friends Together

    Seasonal Desserts

    You must use the category name, not a URL, in the category field.

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Accessibility Statement
    • Cookie Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Image Use & Copyright
    • Privacy Policy

    Contact

    • Contact

    Copyright © 2023 RECIPES BY NORA

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT
    8 shares