What is Tripe?

Tripe is the edible lining of the stomach of ruminant animals. This includes animals like cows, sheep, and pigs. There are four types of tripe: honeycomb, blanket, book, and reed tripe. Each of the types comes from a different stomach compartment. Blanket tripe comes from the first compartment. The second is honeycomb, which is the most commonly used in cooking. Book tripe comes from the third compartment, and reed tripe from the fourth. Each has differing textures and patterns and is used in various cuisines. Eating tripe can provide the body with essential nutrients and minerals, as well as support nose-to-tail eating. 

4 Reasons Why I Should Eat Tripe?

1. Tripe is high in lean protein and vitamin B12. This protein helps the body repair damaged muscles, supports muscle building, and keeps you satiated for longer. Vitamin B12 helps prevent anemia, supports nerve function, and metabolism in the body. 
2. Tripe is a good source of the trace minerals selenium and zinc. Selenium supports thyroid health, immune function, and protects against oxidative stress. Zinc strengthens the immune system, supports DNA synthesis, metabolism, and wound healing. 
3. Eating tripe supports offal (nose-to-tail) eating, which is common in traditional cultures and diversifies our diet. Eating offal reduces the amount of waste after an animal is harvested. 
4. Traditional tripe dishes are nutritious and delicious! 

Top 3 Traditional Tripe Recipes to Try

1. Menudo – Spicy Mexican Soup 

https://www.thespruceeats.com/menudo-spicy-mexican-soup-2342558

2. Mondongo – Latin American Beef Soup 

https://www.thespruceeats.com/caribbean-beef-tripe-soup-2138171

3. Trippa Alla Romana – Traditional Roman-style Tripe

https://memoriediangelina.com/2014/10/31/trippa-alla-romana

Conclusion & Other Resources

Tripe is a wonderful organ that supports the body and can be added to your diet through delicious traditional recipes. If cooking tripe is too intimidating, start small by taking tripe supplements and still reap the nutritional benefits. As always, I encourage you to further your research on how and why you should consider including tripe in your regular diet. Happy offal eating!

Written By: Jessica