How to Cook a GOG (Stuffed Pig’s Stomach)
Cooking a stuffed pig’s stomach, also known as “Hog Maw” or “GOG,” is a traditional dish often associated with Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. This dish involves cleaning and preparing the pig stomach, stuffing it with a mixture of ingredients such as sausage, potatoes, and cabbage, and then roasting it to perfection. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to prepare this unique and flavorful meal.
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
To make stuffed pig stomach, you will need the following ingredients:
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1 large pork stomach
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1 ½ pounds bulk pork sausage (ground sausage)
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4 baking potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1 medium head of cabbage, separated into leaves and rinsed
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Salt and ground black pepper to taste
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Optional: Onion (finely chopped), butter for additional flavor
Step 2: Prepare the Pig Stomach
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Clean the Stomach: If not already cleaned by your butcher, thoroughly wash the pig stomach in cold water. Remove any inner lining if necessary. Some butchers sell pre-cleaned stomachs ready for use.
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Soak in Saltwater: Place the cleaned stomach in a bowl of water mixed with about 2 teaspoons of salt. Let it soak for at least two hours to remove any residual odors or impurities.
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Rinse Again: After soaking, rinse the stomach well under cold running water.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing
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In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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Cubed potatoes
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Bulk pork sausage
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Cabbage leaves (shredded or left whole depending on preference)
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Optional: Finely chopped onion for added flavor
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Season generously with salt and ground black pepper.
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Mix all ingredients thoroughly so that they are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Stuff the Pig Stomach
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Carefully stuff the prepared pig stomach with alternating layers of potatoes, sausage mixture, and cabbage leaves.
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Ensure even layering to create an appealing cross-section when sliced later.
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Do not overfill; leave some room inside as the contents may expand during cooking.
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Once filled, fold or sew up any openings securely using cotton thread or kitchen twine.
Step 5: Roast the Stuffed Pig Stomach
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Place the stuffed pig stomach in a shallow roasting pan.
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Add water to cover the bottom of the pan to prevent burning during roasting.
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Roast uncovered for approximately 40–50 minutes until:
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The sausage is fully cooked through.
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The exterior of the pig stomach becomes browned and crispy.
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If desired, baste occasionally with melted butter or pan drippings for added flavor.
Step 6: Serve
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Remove from oven and let rest briefly before slicing into thick slices (about 2 inches wide).
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Serve hot as a complete meal on its own or alongside other traditional dishes like sauerkraut or gravy made from pan drippings.