Authentic Mexican Cueritos Recipe: Pickled Pork Rinds with Bold Flavor

Cueritos Recipe
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Rest Time 24 hrs
Total Time 25 hrs
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 185  F
Estimated Cost: $  2
Calories: 120
Best Season: Summer, Winter
Description

Cueritos en vinagre are tender pork skin strips pickled in a tangy, spicy vinegar brine infused with garlic, herbs, and dried chiles. This bold and traditional Mexican snack offers a chewy texture and punchy flavor, perfect for enjoying on tostadas, as a botana (appetizer), or straight from the jar.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb fresh pork skin ((cueritos))
  • 4 cups white vinegar
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 medium white onion, sliced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1–2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
  • 3–5 dried arbol chiles (adjust based on heat preference)
  • 1 large carrot, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, sliced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Clean the pork skin thoroughly. Use a sharp knife to remove excess fat and hairs. Rinse under cold water.
  2. 2
    In a large pot, cover the pork skin with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes until soft but not falling apart. Drain and let cool.
  3. 3
    In a separate saucepan, combine vinegar, water, garlic, onion, chiles, peppercorns, bay leaves, oregano, salt, and optional sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
  4. 4
    Slice cooled pork skin into bite-sized strips. Pack into sterilized glass jars, layering with carrots or other vegetables if using. Pour hot vinegar brine over the top, ensuring the skins are completely submerged.
  5. 5
    Seal jars and refrigerate for at least 24–48 hours before serving. The longer they sit, the better the flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving
Calories 120kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7g11%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Sodium 280mg12%
Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
Sugars 1g
Protein 10g20%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.