Cured Pig’s Head

Last updated 2026-11-13 — Cured Pig’s Head is made by curing and smoking the entire pig’s head. First, the skin is scorched with charcoal until dry, then it is boiled with radishes, dried beans, or kelp until the meat is tender enough to fall off the bone. The ears and tongue are sliced off to serve as drinks accompaniments. Before the Lunar New Year reunion, the whole pig’s head must be placed in a brazier, offered wine, and used to pay tribute to the household deities. This is a tradition observed by the Tujia people in Yongding District. …