A pork prong (often referred to as roast pork prongs, a skin-piercing tool, or a meat tenderizer) is a specialized kitchen tool equipped with multiple sharp, metal needles or tines. It is primarily used to poke hundreds of tiny holes into the skin of a pork belly before roasting. Purpose of the Tool • Moisture Escape: The punctured skin allows internal moisture and water to evaporate freely during cooking. • Fat Rendering: It creates pathways for the melting fat underneath the skin to bubble up and fry the surface. • Ultimate Crunch: This dual process of drying and frying is the secret trick to achieving perfectly blistered, hyper-crispy pork crackling (siu yuk) without burning the meat. This specific type of handheld needle meat tenderizer typically features the following standard measurements: SMALL • Total Length: Around 6.7 inches (17 cm) from the top of the handle to the tip of the needles. • Handle Diameter: Roughly 1.38 inches (3.5 cm) at its widest section. • Needle Length: The exposed stainless steel prongs usually extend 1.2 to 1.5 inches (3 to 3.8 cm) past the metal collar. This pocket-sized, cylindrical design is optimized to be gripped easily in one hand so you can press down firmly over steaks or chicken breasts.