Meat
raw pork brain.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeHalalKosher
ALSO KNOWN AS
pork brain
SERVING
CALORIES
127
PROTEIN
10.3g
CARBS
0g
FAT
9.2g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories127kcal—
Protein10.3g21%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat9.2g12%
Saturated fat2.1g11%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol2552mg851%
Water78.9g—
MINERALS
Sodium158mg7%
Potassium274mg6%
Calcium9.0mg1%
Iron1.6mg9%
Magnesium13mg3%
Phosphorus337mg27%
Zinc1.3mg12%
Copper0.20mg22%
Manganese0.02mg1%
Selenium21.8µg40%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A0µg0%
Vitamin C15mg17%
Vitamin D0.10µg1%
Vitamin E1.6mg11%
Vitamin K0µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.10mg8%
Riboflavin (B2)0.20mg15%
Niacin (B3)3.2mg20%
Pantothenic acid (B5)2.3mg46%
Vitamin B60.20mg12%
Folate (B9)4.0µg1%
Vitamin B126.5µg271%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup247g
1 tablespoon15.4g
1 teaspoon5.1g
1 ml1g
1 liter1029.2g
1 piece110g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Extremely rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, which is vital for brain health and cognitive function.
- ✓Excellent source of Vitamin B12, essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation.
- ✓Provides significant amounts of phosphorus, a key mineral for building strong bones and teeth.
- ✓Contains high levels of selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Always soak brains in cold, salted water for several hours before cooking to purge blood and firm the texture. Carefully peel off the outer membrane.
- 2Cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure food safety. Common cooking methods include scrambling, frying, or poaching.
- 3The texture is very soft and custard-like. Pair with acidic ingredients like lemon juice or capers to cut through the richness.
- 4Due to its delicate nature, handle gently during cooking to prevent it from breaking apart.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator (at or below 40°F / 4°C) and consume within 1-2 days due to its high perishability.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is pork brain healthy?
Pork brain is highly nutrient-dense, providing an exceptional source of Vitamin B12, phosphorus, and selenium. It is particularly valued for its high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA), which support brain health. However, it is extremely high in cholesterol, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What are the nutritional facts for 100g of raw pork brain?
A 100g serving of raw pork brain contains approximately 127 calories, 10.3g of protein, 9.2g of fat, and 0g of carbohydrates. It is a carbohydrate-free food that is moderate in protein and relatively high in fat.
Is pork brain keto-friendly?
Yes, pork brain is excellent for the ketogenic and carnivore diets because it contains zero carbohydrates. Its high fat content and nutrient density make it a preferred offal choice for those seeking to maintain ketosis while consuming essential fatty acids.
What does pork brain taste like?
Pork brain has a very mild, delicate, and slightly sweet flavor. Its most notable characteristic is its texture, which is incredibly soft, creamy, and custard-like, similar to a firm tofu or a heavy mousse once cooked.
How do you prepare and cook pork brain?
First, soak the brain in cold salted water and carefully peel away the thin outer membrane and any blood vessels. It is most commonly poached in a court bouillon to firm the texture, then sliced and pan-fried, deep-fried in batter, or scrambled with eggs.
Can I eat pork brain raw?
No, pork brain should never be eaten raw. Like all pork products, it must be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to eliminate the risk of foodborne illnesses, parasites, or bacterial infections.
Is pork brain high in cholesterol?
Yes, pork brain is one of the highest sources of dietary cholesterol in the animal kingdom. While it offers significant brain-boosting nutrients like DHA, individuals with heart health concerns or those on cholesterol-restricted diets should consult a healthcare provider before consuming it.
How do you store raw pork brain and how long does it last?
Raw pork brain is highly perishable and should be kept in the coldest part of the refrigerator and used within 1 to 2 days. It can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months, though the delicate texture may become slightly softer after thawing.
Is pork brain halal or kosher?
No, pork brain is neither halal nor kosher. Both Islamic and Jewish dietary laws strictly forbid the consumption of any part of the pig, including offal like the brain.
What are the specific health benefits of eating pork brain?
Pork brain is a powerhouse of DHA, an Omega-3 fatty acid vital for cognitive function and eye health. It also provides over 100% of the daily requirement for Vitamin B12 in a single serving, which is essential for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.
