If you’re a meat lover, you’ve likely wondered about the different pork cuts available. The meat is typically divided into several sections, referred to as primal cuts, and these are further broken down into individual retail cuts. The most tender cuts come from the loin and ribs, while the least desirable ones come from the lower portions of the animal. Read on for some helpful tips for choosing the right pork cut for your cooking needs.
Pork loin, tenderloin, and sirloin are all high-end cuts. These cuts are available only when they’re purchased together, and they’re the most expensive. They’re also the most expensive, as their low supply and high demand mean that their price can skyrocket. Pork loin, for example, is used to make sausage. It’s also available rolled into a loaf for sandwiches and smoked.
Rib chops, meanwhile, are a cut from a rib roast. They’re typically 3/4″ thick and are sold boneless or attached to a baby back rib. Rib chops are also good for brining, which makes them incredibly tender and delicious. Typically, you’ll be served one rib chop at a time, but if you’re hungrier, you might consider getting two or three – you can eat them like lollipops!
The head is a big part of the pig, and is mostly fat and bone. The meatiest parts of the head are the cheek and jowl. The rest is often boiled down and used for headcheese. So what are the best cuts of pork? To make the best cut of pork, read these guidelines! You’ll be surprised at how delicious and versatile this meat can be! Make sure you check with a reputable butcher before you buy any meat.
Pork shoulder is another popular cut of pork. Unlike most cuts of pork, shoulder or cappello del prete, is a large muscle part that’s perfect for slow cooking. Pork shoulder is also popular for making pulled pork. Butts can be either bone-in or bone-out, butts are often smoked or cured. Butts are also great for braising and slow cookers. If you’re planning to roast a whole pig, make sure to pick the right cut first!
Country Style Ribs aren’t really ribs. They’re actually a cut from the foremost portion of the pork loin. The blade end is the part closest to the shoulder blade. This part is the fattiest, and is more of a chop than a rib. Depending on its cut, this type of meat can be incredibly tender or extremely tough. For this reason, they’re one of the most popular cuts of pork.
