Pork, a popular meat, offers an array of cuts each suited for different cooking styles and flavors. Your grocery store or butcher shop has many different cuts of pork, like ribs and tenderloin. These cuts can please any taste or occasion.
We highlight the unique characteristics of different primal cuts. We also provide tips for preparation and cooking to get you the best results. You will also get a printable pork cuts chart for your future reference.
1. Pork Shoulder (Pork Butt or Boston Butt)
The pork shoulder, often called Boston Butt, is a robust and flavorful cut. It comes from the upper part of the pig's shoulder. This cut is richly marbled with a good balance of meat and fat. It's perfect for dishes that require a longer cooking time. This cut is a top choice for pulled pork or boneless ribs. It becomes exceptionally tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.
- Best For: Ideal for slow cooking, smoking, or making pulled pork.
- Cooking Tip: Cook slowly at a low temperature to tenderize the meat.
- Recipes to Try: Instant Pot Pork Roast, Country style pork ribs, Instant Pot Carnitas,
2. Pork Loin
Pork loin is a large, versatile cut from the pig's back. Known for its lean texture and mild flavor, it has a substantial size that makes it perfect for a variety of dishes. The pork loin can be bought boneless or bone-in. It often features a cap of fat that enhances its flavor during cooking. This cut is excellent when roasted whole. It is also good sliced into chops for quicker cooking methods.
- Best For: Roasting whole or cutting into chops and grilling.
- Cooking Tip: Avoid overcooking; use an instant read meat thermometer to prevent dryness.
- Recipes to Try: Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin, Thick Cut Pork Chops
3. Pork Chops
Pork chops are the most recognized cut from the loin. They come in various thicknesses and can be bone-in or boneless. They are prized for their combination of lean meat and a small amount of fat. This provides a balance of tenderness and flavor. Pork chops are very flexible. They are great for fast cooking and popular for weeknight dinners.
- Best For: Quick grilling, pan-frying, or broiling.
- Cooking Tip: Brine beforehand to enhance juiciness.
- Recipes to Try: Air Fryer Pork Chops, Pork Chops With Cream of Mushroom
4. Baby Back Ribs
Baby back ribs are known for their tenderness and smaller size. They are taken from the upper ribs near the loin. Barbecue enthusiasts often choose these ribs. They work well with different marinades and sauces. They offer a delightful combination of meat and fat. When cooked properly, it becomes succulent and flavorful.
- Best For: Grilling or oven-baking with a flavorful sauce.
- Cooking Tip: Slow cook to tenderize, then finish with a high heat for a caramelized exterior.
- Recipes to Try: Oven Baked Dry Rub Ribs, Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs, Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs
5. Spare Ribs
Spare ribs, located on the belly side of the pig, are larger and have more fat than baby back ribs. They are known for their rich flavor and meaty texture, making them a popular choice for barbecue. These ribs benefit from long, slow cooking methods. The methods render the fat and tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish.
- Best For: Slow cooking, smoking, or barbecuing.
- Cooking Tip: Marinate for several hours for enhanced flavor.
- Recipes to Try: St. Louis Style Ribs, Dry Rub Ribs Recipe
6. Pork Belly
Pork belly is celebrated for its luxurious layers of meat and fat. This cut is incredibly versatile. It forms the basis for many beloved dishes, including bacon. During cooking, its rich fat content renders down. This leaves the meat tender and flavorful. Pork belly is best when cooked slowly, allowing the fat to melt and the meat to become succulent.
- Best For: Slow roasting, braising, or making bacon.
- Cooking Tip: Cook slowly to render the fat and ensure crispiness.
7. Ham
Ham, cut from the pig's hind leg, is available in several forms: cured, smoked, or fresh. It's a versatile cut that can be the centerpiece of a meal, especially during holidays. The flavor of ham can vary greatly depending on the curing or smoking process. This offers a range of options from sweet to savory.
- Best For: Baking (if pre-cooked), or slow roasting (if fresh).
- Cooking Tip: For added flavor, glaze during the last part of cooking.
- Recipes to Try: How to Heat a Fully Cooked Ham, Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze for Ham, 7 Easy Glazed Sliced Ham Recipes
8. Tenderloin
The pork tenderloin is known for its tenderness and lean quality. It is a prime cut for quick cooking. This slender cut is located along the spine and is the most tender part of the pig. Its mild flavor makes it a perfect canvas for a variety of seasonings and cooking methods.
- Best For: Quick roasting or grilling.
- Cooking Tip: Avoid overcooking; keep it slightly pink for the best flavor.
- Recipes to Try: Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin, Golden Juicy Pan Fried Pork Chops
9. Sirloin Roast
The sirloin roast comes from the rear part of the loin and is known for its lean, meaty texture and robust flavor. This cut is excellent for roasting or can be sliced into steaks for grilling. The sirloin roast offers a satisfying eating experience. It balances leanness with a hearty pork flavor.
- Best For: Roasting or cutting into steaks for grilling.
- Cooking Tip: Use a meat thermometer to cook to the perfect doneness.
- Recipes to Try:
10. Ground Pork
Ground pork is a versatile ingredient made from various pork cuts. It's a key component in many dishes, adding flavor and texture. Ground pork is a staple in many culinary traditions. It is used in meatballs, sausages, and mixed dishes like stir-fries.
- Best For: Meatballs, sausages, or as a component in dishes like stir-fries.
- Cooking Tip: Combine with spices and other ingredients to enhance flavor.
- Recipes to Try: Kielbasa and Saurkraut, Easy Air Fryer Bratwurst, Oven Cooked Sausage, Air Fryer Italian Sausage and Peppers, 27 Best Sausage Dinners
Download your own copy of the Printable Pork Cuts Chart courtesy of the National Pork Board.
Pork offers endless possibilities for delicious and satisfying dishes. They offer a variety of options for any meal. You should have a much better understanding of each cut to help you make a good decision of which one works best for you.
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