Overview Of Cuts Of Pork Meat
There are many cuts of pork. Technically there are upwards of 13 but we're going to focus on 8 and how best to prepare them.
Working from the head to rump, each of the main cuts of pork deserve their moments to shine in the kitchen.
Pork Cheek
The pig's cheek is fatty and succulent. It's also one of the more affordable and flavourful parts of the pig.
How To Cook Pork Cheek
Braising in its natural glory, mincing in sauces for added richness, or crisping in the fryer for chips!
Types Of Pork Cheek
Want to give it a try? Look for these products:
- bacon square/jowl bacon
- crisps
- guanciale (similar to bacon)
Pork Shoulder
Shoulders, parts of which are ironically called the 'butt', are a great cut to start with. These cuts are extremely versatile. The flavor profiles work fantastically in sauces or even grilled as a steak.
How To Cook Pork Shoulder
Roasted slow and long, grilled, barbecued
Types Of Pork Shoulder
Want to give it a try? Look for these products:
- blade steaks
- picnic cuts
- hand
- sausage
- neck cuts
- short rib
Pork Loin
These chops are the strip along the pig's back and are ideal for big family meals. You will often find these cuts rolled or stuffed around the holidays. Typically juicy and hearty, this cut is a classic favourite. Pair this meat with apples and onions for a heavenly taste combo.
Within the loin section you'll also find the lean filet chop, which is great for a healthier option. This section needs to be cooked quickly at high temperatures to keep it juicy.
How To Cook Pork Loin
Stuffing and pan or oven roasting for the loin, hot and fast crisping to seal in moisture for the filet
Types Of Pork Loin
Want to give it a try? Look for these products:
- T-Bone chops (mixture of loin and filet)
- pork chops
- sirloin roasts
- Canadian bacon
- cutlets
- back ribs
Pork Tenderloin
This cut deserves its own section of honour, despite it being a subsection of the loin, due to its...well, tenderness. As you can guess from its name, the tenderloin is the most indulgent piece of the pig, and often the most expensive. It is leaner than the other loin sections, making it healthy and delectable.
How To Cook Pork Tenderloin
Roasted, baked
Types Of Pork Tenderloin
Want to give it a try? Look for these products:
Pork Belly
Down below the loin cut is the belly. Welcome to the bacon, baby! This cut is incredibly tender and robust in flavour, due to its higher fat content. With fatty meats like this, there are opportunities for tender melt-in-your-mouth effects, or savoury crispiness! No matter what, it's umami and luxurious!
How To Cook Pork Belly
Slow roast, pan fry, roasted slowly at low temp
Types Of Pork Belly
Want to give it a try? Look for these products:
- streaked bacon
- short rib
Pork Ribs
Ribs are classic decadent finger food. They work best when marinated (apples and sage are complimentary flavours to work with). Achieve a slight crisp on the outside to keep the fats and juices rendered inside for optimal tenderness. The meat will fall off the bone! Common bacon also comes from this side section.
How To Cook Pork Ribs
Grilled or barbecued at high heat
Types Of Pork Belly
Want to give it a try? Look for these products:
- bacon
- spareribs
Pork Chump & Ham
Pig bum is also a very versatile, meaty cut, much like the shoulder. It can be cooked many ways and enjoyed with tangy sauce pairings that balance the richness and heaviness of the fats. It is full of flavour and is a more affordable cut of pork.
How To Cook Pork Ribs
Grilled, fried, barbecued
Types Of Pork Belly
Want to give it a try? Look for these products:
- bacon
- cured ham roast
- bone-in ham
Pork Leg
Leg cuts are a leaner cut, and are great for curing to make ham and for making robust gravies. Marinating and tenderizing it can elevate the experience that much more.
How To Cook Pork Ribs
Flash grilled escalopes, on the bone
Types Of Pork Belly
Want to give it a try? Look for these products:
- smoked hocks
- trotter
- shank
Why Choose Pork?
Whether it's bacon, sausage, ham, or another delicious form of pork, pig makes for a versatile and rich protein to cook a hundred different ways. It is one of the best meats for smoking, crisping, and frying because of its umami fatty richness.
Ultimately, whatever cuts you choose comes down to preference. Some melt, some chew, and some transform. As long as you let the meat rest to seal in its juices, and buy from Farm2Fork your dining experience will be superior, no matter the cut.
