Pork is enjoyed worldwide and is prepared in many different ways depending on the culture. It makes for a tasty filling in many dishes, so it often features heavily on restaurant menus, especially in Asian and European countries.
Most people associate pork with holiday roasts, but this meat can also be enjoyed in sandwiches, soups, and casseroles. It’s also a superb freezer-friendly ingredient that can easily be incorporated into dishes at a later date. Here are 8 different types of pork you may not have tried in the past!
1. Boneless Pork Chop
A boneless pork chop is a popular item on many restaurant menus, and for good reason! It’s a simple way to cook meat that’s easy to carve while keeping the juices inside. Boneless pork chops are usually thinly cut, so it’s a good idea to slice them across the grain. At just 10 dollars a pound, they are a cost-effective cut of meat for those on a tight budget.
2. Pork Porterhouse Sandwich
The pork porterhouse is a large piece of meat cut from the shoulder of the pig. Pork porterhouses are inexpensive and versatile, meaning they are great for preparing various dishes. This cut can be further enhanced by marinating prior to cooking, adding a delicious and vibrant taste to many dishes!
3. Pork Bacon
This pork cut is well known for its use in sandwiches and melts, but it can also be used in a variety of other dishes too. Bacon is usually made from back/pork loin, and the leaner this cut is, the better a taste it imparts on dishes. Pork bacon works well with rich sauces and gravies making it a great ingredient to cook with!
4. Pork Tenderloin
The pork tenderloin is a cut of meat that has a small amount of fat and is usually sliced quite thinly. This cut of meat has a very mild and delicate flavor, but it is also quite expensive! As they are very versatile, they work well in many dishes. Pork tenderloins can be roasted, fried, grilled, braised, or even breaded and deep-fried.
5. Half Pork Butt
Pork butt is a popular cut of meat that is very versatile. This cut of meat comes from the shoulder of a pig and is also known as the pork shoulder. It can be further subdivided into several other cuts, including picnic, Boston butt, and beam. While the latter two are less popular, they all make for a tasty piece of pork that can be used in many dishes.
6. Pork Brisket
This cut of meat is actually the muscle from the pig’s front leg. Leaner cuts of pork are better for slow-cooking techniques. Pork brats can be a bit tougher than other cuts, but this doesn’t mean they must be prepared in difficult ways. It’s a nice slow-cooked lean cut that works well with so many dishes!
7. St. Louis Pork Steak
The St. Louis pork steak is a large cut of meat that can be served in a lean cut or heavily marbled form. This cut of meat is usually prepared by frying, stewing, or braising.
8. Pork Neck Roast
Perfect for a hearty pot roast, this cut of meat is very inexpensive. As it comes from the neck of pigs, in some cases, it can be a bit fatty and chewy. This cut of meat can be braised or roasted to make tender and delicious meals!
Conclusion:
Pork is one of the most versatile meats on the market, and these 8 pork cuts prove it. Whether you are experimenting with new cuisines or looking for budget-friendly cuts of meat, it’s worth trying these different pork cuts.
