Published:
Jul 26th 2021
by 
Nutritionally reviewed by 
Last updated: Sep 15th 2025
Trinidad Chicken Foot Souse is a vibrant dish that combines tender chicken feet with a tangy marinade, creating a unique flavor and texture experience. This traditional Caribbean recipe utilizes pickling methods to enhance the savory elements, making it perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing taste that captures the essence of island cuisine.
This recipe offers a vibrant blend of tangy lime and aromatic herbs, delivering a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. It's easy to prepare with accessible ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Plus, it can be made ahead or frozen, adding to its versatility for any occasion.
Key nutrients
- Collagen: from chicken feet — supports skin, joint, and connective tissue structure.
- Vitamin C: from lime juice and peppers — helps with iron absorption and immune function.
- Fiber: from cucumber and onion — aids digestion and promotes fullness.
- Potassium: from cucumber — helps maintain fluid balance and normal muscle function.
Why it matters
- Collagen-rich foods may support healthy joints and skin.
- Vitamin C is important for immune health and antioxidant protection.
- Fiber can help support digestive regularity.
Balance & portion
Aim for a balanced plate (vegetables, protein, smart carbs). Choose portions that fit your needs.
What to watch
- Sodium — salt in the marinade can add up; taste before adding extra salt.
Make it even better
- Add extra cucumber or other veggies for more fiber and crunch.
- Use fresh herbs generously to boost flavor without extra salt.
- Pair with whole grain bread or crackers for added nutrients and fiber.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
- CDC — Nutrition - For general information on nutrients and healthy eating patterns.
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health — Vitamin C - For vitamin C roles and food sources.
Best fit
- Gluten Free: Contains no wheat, barley, or rye ingredients.
- Low Carb: Primarily protein and non-starchy vegetables, minimal added sugars.
- Paleo: Uses whole foods, fresh herbs, and no processed ingredients.
Use with caution / avoid
- Sodium: Salt and pickling may increase sodium; limit if watching salt intake.
- Low Fat Diets: Chicken feet are higher in collagen and may contain some fat.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Contains animal protein; not suitable for plant-based diets.
Helpful modifications
- Reduce salt and use more herbs to lower sodium content.
- Swap chicken feet for skinless chicken breast for less fat and cholesterol.
- Add extra cucumber or grated carrots for more fiber and crunch.
- Use vinegar instead of lime juice if citrus is a concern.
Pair with: A side of steamed vegetables or a green salad to boost fiber and nutrients.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
No major allergens detected based on the listed ingredients. Always check labels for hidden allergens in sauces or blends.
Notes are based on the listed ingredients; always verify brand labels and local regulations. Swaps may require adjusting cook time and steps; the original recipe isn’t tailored to substitutions.
Clean
- Wash chicken feet thoroughly under running water before cooking.
- Scrub and trim nails from chicken feet to remove dirt and debris.
- Clean all utensils and surfaces before and after handling raw poultry.
Separate
- Keep raw chicken feet away from ready-to-eat foods and vegetables.
- Use separate cutting boards for poultry and other ingredients.
Cook
- Boil chicken feet until fully cooked and tender; they should reach 165°F.
- Avoid tasting or serving chicken feet before they are fully cooked.
Chill
- Refrigerate souse within 2 hours of preparation to prevent bacteria growth.
- Store leftovers in a sealed container and consume within 3 days.
References
- CDC — Food Safety - General food safety practices for handling poultry and leftovers.
- USDA — Poultry Preparation - Safe handling, cooking, and storage of poultry products.
- Chicken feet are prized for their rich collagen, giving this dish a naturally silky texture.
- Souse is a classic Caribbean pickled dish, often enjoyed chilled for a refreshing bite.
- Lime juice not only adds tang but also helps tenderize the chicken feet during marination.
- Chadon beni, also known as culantro, provides a distinct herbal flavor unique to Caribbean cuisine.
Name & origins
This recipe hails from Trinidad and Tobago, where souse is a beloved appetizer or snack at gatherings.
Ingredient spotlight
- Chicken feet: High in collagen, they create a gelatinous texture after boiling and marinating.
- Lime juice: Adds acidity and brightness while helping to break down tough proteins.
- Chadon beni: Offers bold, herbal notes that define the dish's Caribbean character.
- Cucumber: Brings crunch and freshness to balance the savory flavors.
Technique tidbit
Marinating boiled chicken feet in an acidic mixture allows flavors to penetrate and softens the texture for a more enjoyable bite.
Before you start
- Gather all ingredients and equipment for this recipe to streamline the cooking process.
- Ensure pots and utensils are clean and ready for use before boiling the chicken feet.
- Wash chicken feet thoroughly and pat dry to remove excess moisture before marinating.
During cooking
- Check for tenderness by piercing the chicken feet; they should be soft but not falling apart.
- Look for a vibrant color in the marinade to indicate that flavors are developing well.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken feet to maintain a chewy yet tender texture.
- Cook in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding in the pot for even boiling.
Make-ahead & storage
- Prepare the marinade and clean chicken feet a day ahead for enhanced flavor infusion.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate to keep them fresh for up to three days.
Common mistakes
- Overseasoning → Start with less salt and adjust after marinating to avoid overpowering flavors.
- Skipping the rinse → Rinse boiled chicken feet well to remove impurities and excess salt.
Serve with
- Warm crusty bread or crispy crackers to scoop up the souse.
- Fried plantains for a sweet contrast to the savory dish.
- A tangy hot sauce to add an extra kick if desired.
Toppings & textures
- Chopped Chadon Beni or fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- A wedge of lime for added acidity and brightness.
Occasions
- Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or as a refreshing appetizer.
Substitutions
- If you lack chicken feet, use pig's feet for a similar texture and rich flavor.
- For a tangy marinade, substitute lime juice with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Replace chadon beni with fresh cilantro or parsley for a milder herb flavor.
- Use Scotch bonnet peppers for more heat or milder chili varieties to suit your spice preference.
- Swap cucumber with grated carrots or radishes for a crunchy, fresh element.
Variations
- Add grated ginger to the marinade for a zesty, warming note that enhances flavor.
- Include diced tomatoes in the marinade for added color and sweetness while staying true to this recipe.
- Try marinating with coconut water instead of plain water for a subtle sweetness and tropical flavor.
- Create a spicier version by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
Refrigerate
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent odors.
- Consume within three days for the best flavor and safety.
Freeze
- Freezing not recommended as it may affect texture and flavor quality.
Reheat
- Gently warm on the stove over low heat until heated through.
- Add a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture and texture.
Repurpose ideas
- Use as a zesty topping on salads for added flavor and texture.
- Incorporate into rice bowls for a delicious and unique meal.
- Chicken Feet: Provides a unique texture and rich collagen content for this recipe.
- Lime Juice: Adds a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the chicken feet.
- Onion: Contributes a savory depth to the marinade.
- Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic and pungent qualities.
- Chadon Beni (Culantro): Offers a fresh, herbaceous note typical of Caribbean cuisine.
- Seasoning Peppers: Provide mild heat and a peppery kick to the dish.
- Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the souse.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Black Pepper: Adds subtle spiciness and depth to the marinade.
- Water: Used for boiling the chicken feet and creating the marinade base.
How do I clean chicken feet before cooking?
Rinse the chicken feet thoroughly under cold water and use a brush to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the nails and outer skin if desired.
Can I make Trinidad Chicken Foot Souse spicy or mild?
Adjust the amount of hot pepper or spice to suit your taste preferences. You can make it fiery or milder by controlling the amount of spice used.
What's the best way to serve Trinidad Chicken Foot Souse?
Trinidad Chicken Foot Souse is often served as a side dish or appetizer. It can also be enjoyed on its own, typically accompanied by bread or alongside other Trinidadian dishes such as Pelau, Callaloo, Macaroni Pie and Fried Plantains.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
1 lb Chicken Feet
Water for Boiling
1 Tablespoon Salt
125 ml Lime Juice
1 small Onion, Sliced
2 cloves Garlic, Minced
3 Green Onion, Chopped
4 leaves Chadon Beni, Minced
1 large Cucumber, grated
3 Large Seasoning Peppers
Salt & Black Pepper to taste
Water for marinade
Instructions
Thoroughly wash the chicken feet and remove the toenails.
Place a pot of water on high heat with 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil.
Once the water is boiling, place the chicken feet in the pot, cover and cook until tender (should be 20-40 minutes).
When the chicken is fork-tender, remove it from the heat and rinse with cool water 3-4 times.
After the chicken is washed and cool to the touch, place it into a dish or bowl with a cover for marinating.
Add the lime juice, sliced onion, garlic, green onion, chadon beni, grated cucumber, seasoning peppers to the dish, and toss to coat the chicken feet.
Once the ingredients are thoroughly mixed, add enough water to submerge the chicken.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste and marinate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight for more depth of flavor.
Serve in bowls with fresh bread or crackers.
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes, holiday specials, and mouthwatering secrets!
Subscribe
Add new comment