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Fried chicharrones, often referred to as crispy pork rinds, are a beloved snack in many cuisines, particularly in Mexican and Latin American cultures. These crunchy, savory treats are made by frying pieces of pork skin, which puff up and become light and crispy. When served together Fried Chicharrones with Guacamole make for a perfect appetizer or snack that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

The combination of the savory, salty pork rinds and the cool, creamy guacamole creates a delicious contrast that is impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the game, or just craving a tasty snack, fried chicharrones with guacamole on the side are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients for Fried Chicharrones

1 lb pork skin (cut into small pieces or strips)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Guacamole:

2 ripe avocados
1 small onion, finely chopped
1-2 jalapeños, seeds removed and finely chopped (optional)
1 lime, juiced
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fried Chicharrones

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Skin

If the pork skin isn’t already pre-cut into strips or small pieces, you’ll need to do this yourself. You can either buy it pre-packaged or get it from your butcher. Make sure to remove any excess fat from the pork skin.
Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure they fry up crisp.

Step 2: Season the Pork Skin

Season the pork skin with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. If you want a bit more heat, you can also sprinkle some chili powder or paprika on top.
Let the seasoned pork skin sit for a few minutes while you prepare the oil for frying.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan or deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to fully submerge the pieces of pork skin to ensure an even crisp.
The oil is ready when a small piece of the pork skin dropped into the oil sizzles immediately. Be cautious about the temperature to avoid burning the chicharrones.

Step 4: Fry the Chicharrones

Carefully place the seasoned pork skin pieces into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the pork skin puffs up and turns golden brown. The texture should be crispy and light.
Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicharrones from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Immediately season with a bit more salt, if desired, while they are still hot.

Step 5: Make the Guacamole

Prepare the guacamole by cutting the avocados in half and removing the pits. Scoop the flesh out into a bowl and mash it with a fork until smooth, leaving a few chunks for texture if you prefer.
Add the chopped onion, jalapeños (if using), lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt to the mashed avocado. Stir everything together until well-combined.
Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, lime, or jalapeños to suit your preferences.
For an extra burst of flavor, garnish the guacamole with some fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the freshly fried chicharrones alongside a bowl of guacamole for dipping. This combination of crispy pork skin and creamy guacamole creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
You can also serve the chicharrones with salsa or a squeeze of fresh lime for added zest.

Tips for Making Perfect Fried Chicharrones

Use a Thermometer: To make sure your oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F), use a thermometer. If the oil is too hot, the chicharrones may burn before they puff up. If the oil is too cool, they may become greasy instead of crispy.
Dry the Pork Skin: Make sure to pat the pork skin dry before frying to ensure the oil doesn’t splatter. Dry pork skin also results in a crispier texture once fried.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying the pork skin in small batches will give it enough room to puff up and become crispy. If you overcrowd the pan, the pieces will stick together and won’t cook evenly.

Variations of Fried Chicharrones

Spicy Chicharrones

Add a spicy kick to your fried chicharrones by sprinkling them with cayenne pepper or tossing them in a spicy seasoning blend after frying. You can also incorporate some chili flakes into the guacamole for an added layer of heat.

Sweet and Salty Chicharrones

For a unique twist, try drizzling honey over the fried chicharrones after cooking. The sweet honey complements the salty, crispy pork skin for a sweet and salty contrast that is irresistible.

Chicharrones with Lime Zest

For an extra burst of citrus flavor, sprinkle the hot chicharrones with lime zest just before serving. The refreshing zest will enhance the flavors and add a pop of color.

What to Serve with Fried Chicharrones and Guacamole

Fresh Salsa: Serve a fresh tomato-based salsa alongside the guacamole for an additional dip option. A tangy pico de gallo with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro works beautifully with both the chicharrones and guacamole.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: If you want more crunch, serve tortilla chips along with the fried chicharrones and guacamole. This gives your guests more options to dip and enjoy the flavors.
Beer: Pair this snack with a cold Mexican beer, such as Corona or Modelo, for the perfect refreshment to balance the richness of the chicharrones.

Conclusion: A Perfectly Crispy Snack for Every Occasion

Fried chicharrones with guacamole on the side is a delicious and satisfying snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a treat at home, the combination of crispy pork skin and creamy, zesty guacamole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

With a few simple ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate this popular snack in the comfort of your own kitchen. The key is to fry the pork skin to the perfect level of crispiness and to make a fresh, flavorful guacamole that complements the savory richness of the chicharrones.

Enjoy these crispy delights with your friends and family, and watch them disappear in no time!