Caloric Breakdown of 100g Pig Stomach
At around 157-159 calories per 100 grams when cooked and simmered, pig stomach (also known as hog maw) provides a solid source of energy. The calorie content is composed mainly of protein and fat, with very few carbohydrates. For context, a typical macronutrient distribution shows that approximately 43% of calories come from fat, and 57% come from protein. This high-protein, low-carb nature makes it a filling food, which can be beneficial for managing appetite.
Detailed Nutritional Profile
Beyond just calories, pig stomach offers several important nutrients. A 100g serving contributes significantly to daily nutritional requirements, providing various vitamins and minerals essential for bodily functions.
Nutrients in 100g Cooked Pig Stomach:
- Protein: ~21 grams
- Fat: ~7 grams
- Carbohydrates: ~0.1-0.2 grams
- Selenium: 40.3 µg (73% of Daily Value)
- Zinc: 2.9 mg (21-27% of Daily Value)
- Vitamin B12: 0.5 µg (20% of Daily Value)
- Phosphorus: 129 mg (18% of Daily Value)
- Iron: 1.2 mg (7-15% of Daily Value)
How Cooking Methods Impact Calorie Content
The final calorie count of pig stomach is highly dependent on how it's prepared. While simmering in water results in a lower calorie figure, cooking with added ingredients can increase this number significantly. Frying or sautéing with oil, for example, will add extra fat and calories, while stuffing it with fatty ingredients will also raise the caloric density. For a healthier option, braising or slow-cooking the thoroughly cleaned stomach is recommended. This process makes the meat tender while keeping added fats to a minimum.
Comparison with Other Pork Cuts
Comparing the nutritional data of pig stomach to other common pork cuts helps illustrate its place in a balanced diet. As an offal meat, it differs considerably from cuts like pork belly.
| Feature | Cooked Pig Stomach (per 100g) | Cooked Pork Belly (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~157-159 kcal | ~500-600 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~7g | ~50g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3g | High (around 20g) |
| Protein | ~21g | 12-18g |
| Carbohydrates | Very Low | Very Low |
| Cholesterol | Very High (316mg) | High |
This comparison shows that pig stomach is much leaner and lower in calories than pork belly, despite being a type of offal. It also contains more protein per 100g. However, it is noteworthy that pig stomach is exceptionally high in dietary cholesterol. While the impact of dietary cholesterol on blood cholesterol is a subject of ongoing research, moderation is still key for those with concerns about cardiovascular health.
Preparation and Health Considerations
Proper cleaning is paramount when preparing pig stomach for consumption. The interior lining must be thoroughly cleaned and scraped to remove impurities and any lingering odor. Using a combination of salt, flour, and lime juice for scrubbing, followed by multiple rinses and blanching in hot water, is a common practice. This intensive cleaning process ensures the final dish is not only palatable but also safe.
Potential Health Implications
While pig stomach provides valuable protein and micronutrients, its high cholesterol content warrants caution. As with any food, moderation is essential for a balanced diet. Combining pig stomach with a variety of other foods can mitigate potential negative effects. For instance, pairing it with vegetables in a soup, as is common in many cuisines, can add fiber and other nutrients while diluting the impact of its high cholesterol concentration.
Research on offal consumption often highlights both the benefits and potential risks, particularly concerning fat and cholesterol levels in Western diets. Studies on pork belly, for instance, have shown that excessive consumption can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease due to its high fat content. Though pig stomach is leaner than pork belly, its high cholesterol level places it in a category requiring mindful consumption.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a 100g serving of cooked pig stomach provides approximately 159 calories, making it a relatively lean source of protein and essential micronutrients like selenium, zinc, and B vitamins. Its lower calorie and fat profile compared to fatty cuts like pork belly can make it a suitable option for a balanced meal. However, its high cholesterol content dictates that it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those with health concerns. Thorough cleaning is a necessary step for proper preparation, and the overall nutritional impact can be managed by pairing it with healthier cooking methods and complementary ingredients.
For more detailed information on pork and nutrition, see the National Institutes of Health's resource on dietary consumption and health considerations.
