A traditional Puerto Rican dish — Chicharrones are shatteringly crisp chunks of pork belly fried until the skin puffs into golden blisters. On the island they are both a beloved snack and the crispy byproduct of pernil, with nothing wasted. A squeeze of lime and a cold beer are all they ask for.
Chicharrones Puertorriqueños
A traditional Puerto Rican dish — Chicharrones are shatteringly crisp chunks of pork belly fried until the skin puffs into golden blisters.

Step by stepInstructions
- Season the pork chunks with the adobo, garlic powder, oregano and vinegar, rubbing the seasoning into the skin.
- Place the pork in a pot, cover with water, and simmer gently until tender, 30 to 40 minutes. Drain thoroughly and pat every piece completely dry.
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) and add the pork in batches, skin side down, frying until the skin puffs and blisters, 8 to 10 minutes.
- Turn and fry until deep golden and crisp all over, 5 to 7 minutes more. Drain on paper towels.
- Sprinkle with a little extra salt while hot and serve with lime wedges.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Dry skin is the secret to crackling: pat the pork very dry before frying. For extra flavor, fry the chicharrones in the rendered fat from a previous batch of pernil.

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