1. Crescent Bone – A Rare Delicacy from Pork, Crispy and Nutritious
The name may sound unusual, but the crescent bone is a special part located at the joint between the front legs of a pig, near the bone that curves like a crescent moon, hence its name.
This bone is actually soft cartilage with a crunchy texture, highly favored in stews, soups, or grilled dishes. Its natural sweetness, mild fattiness, and crunchy structure give dishes made from the crescent bone a unique delicious flavor. Moreover, this cartilage is rich in collagen, protein, and vitamins that are beneficial for skin, joint, and overall health.
Due to its rarity and nutritional value, many butchers often keep the crescent bone for their own families. This is also the reason why it’s not easily available to everyone, unless you go to the market very early or place an advance order.
2. Pig’s Tail – A Nutritious Delicacy with Health Benefits
Another often-overlooked part of the pig that offers high nutritional value is the tail. Not many people pay attention to this part as it is believed to have little meat and is not very appealing, but in reality, it is a natural “tonic” that our ancestors have long utilized.
Since ancient times, the tails of livestock have been considered ingredients that improve blood circulation and help treat back pain, weak knees, and physical exhaustion. Specifically, in Traditional Chinese Medicine, pig’s tail is believed to tonify qi and blood, support kidney health, enhance male sexual function, and reduce premature ejaculation.
Whether boiled with Chinese herbal medicine, cooked in a soup, or braised with beans, pig’s tail always results in a delicious and nutritious dish. A small part with big benefits – that’s the forgotten value of this cut of meat.
3 Delicious and Nutritious Dishes Using Pig’s Tail
1. Crispy Pig’s Tail – The Ultimate Beer Snack
If you’re looking for a tasty snack for your next get-together with friends, look no further than crispy pig’s tail. The tail is deep-fried until the outer skin turns golden and crispy, while the inside remains chewy and slightly crunchy.
Serve it with a tangy, sweet, and salty dip made from tamarind and fish sauce – the perfect combination for a drinking session or as a mouthwatering snack.
2. Pig’s Tail and Lotus Seed Soup – A Nourishing Dish for the Whole Family
For a light yet nutritious dish, try pig’s tail and lotus seed soup. The tail is simmered until tender and combined with creamy lotus seeds, creating a sweet and delicate flavor that infuses every bite. This dish goes well with fresh rice vermicelli or steamed rice, making it a delicious and healthy option, and it’s easy to prepare too.
3. Pig’s Tail and Lotus Root Soup – A Refreshing Dish for a Balanced Meal
If you’re looking for a dish to balance out the flavors of a greasy meal, try pig’s tail and lotus root soup. The sweetness of the broth combines with the crunchy lotus root and the tender, flavorful tail meat to create a delicious and nutritious soup. In addition to nourishing the blood and tonifying the body, this soup also helps to cool the body, making it an ideal choice after a heavy meal.
