Pork 101

Pork 101

At Tender Belly, we believe in "waste not, want not," which means we use every piece of the pig—nose to tail. This method keeps us creative and means we have a lot of meat to work with in order to create flavorful and sustainable foodproducts.

We know firsthand the options can be a little overwhelming to the novice pork chef. To help you navigate the never-ending array of different types of pork, we created this guide to help you choose the absolute best cut of pork to satisfy your needs. 

Keep reading to discover our helpful tips when deciding between various cuts of meat, as well as learn more about each of our delicious Tender Belly pork products available for purchase. 

 

BACON

WHAT IS IT?

Bacon is a cut of pork used as a flavorful side dish or ingredient in other dishes. It is cut from the fatty portion of a pig’s belly or back, cured to preserve the meat and add flavor, and then sliced thinly for using.Tender Belly's smoked bacon uses a natural cure that is free of artificial nitrates and compliments the marbled, juicy style of pork perfectly. 

HOW SHOULD IT BE PREPARED?

Bacon is an extremely versatile ingredient that is known to enhance the flavor of any dish. The ways of preparing are up to your personal preference and the amount of time you have on your hands. If you want your bacon to be cooked evenly or even crispy - throw it in the oven. If you like wavy bacon with some chewy, fatty parts and other slightly burnt parts - fry it on the stovetop. Bonus with the stovetop: you can reuse the bacon grease to cook the rest of your meal (or save it for later!). 

WHY BUY IT?

Tender Belly bacon is made from the highest quality primal, heritage hogs and is free from artificial nitrates. Our bacon comes in many flavors including our signature blend, habanero, and even sugar-free. Whichever dry spice rub best fits your style, we can guarantee our fresh bacon products will hit the spot!

 

HAM

WHAT IS IT?

Ham is another type of cured meat, cut from the back leg of a pig. The ham remains a whole cut while curing and cooking, and is not sliced until serving. 

HOW SHOULD IT BE PREPARED?

Tender Belly Berkshire Spiral Cut Uncured Ham comes pre-glazed and wrapped in foil so all you have to do is throw it in the oven, warm it to your desired temperature and serve. No matter what side dishes you serve it with, it will be the star of the meal!

WHY BUY IT?

The intramuscular fat marbling, natural cure, and sweet honey glaze make for one of the best holiday ham experiences you have ever had. It’ll be the simplest to prepare and a definite crowd-pleaser. 

SAUSAGES & FRANKS

WHAT ARE THEY?

Tender BellyFranks come from the hind leg of 100% Berkshire pork and are smoked with applewood to enhance the flavor. Tender Belly then coarse grinds the meat and packs it into an all-natural casing. Oursausage is Hardwood-smoked and packed in a lamb casing. 

HOW SHOULD THEY BE PREPARED?

Depending on your setting, you can cook sausages and franks in many ways! If you’re at home, frying them on the stovetop or grilling them on the barbecue does wonders. If you’re out in the wilderness, stick it on a skewer and throw it over the fire! Once cooked, these are delicious eating alone or sandwiched between buns and topped with all your classic condiments. 

WHY BUY THEM?

Tender Belly uses Heritage Breed pork raised without any antibiotics ever, and are vegetarian fed and crate-free. Every bite delivers a crisp snap and the perfect balance of a subtly sweet and delightfully salty taste. There really isn’t another option than to try it.

PULLED PORK

WHAT IS IT?

Pulled pork is shredded pieces of the pork shoulder. Our Pulled Pork with Tender Belly BBQ Sauce is made from Heritage Breed hogs, seasoned to perfection, and slow-roasted over hardwoods. 

HOW SHOULD IT BE PREPARED?

There’s nothing better than a pulled pork sandwich. Our pulled pork can be warmed up easily in the microwave in minutes. Plop a big spoonful on a hamburger bun with some coleslaw or other toppings of choice and you’ve got a meal!

WHY BUY IT?

Tender Belly’s Pulled Pork has an authentic, smoky BBQ flavor that will melt the mouths and hearts of all barbecue fans alike. Plus, it’s smothered in our own Signature Tender Belly Blend BBQ sauce that is to die for. 

We'd love to know: what's your favorite Tender Belly product and how do you prepare it? Share your best tips on social using the hashtags #tenderbelly and #certifiedawesome. 

 Pork Belly

PORK TENDERLOIN

What is it?

Pork tenderloin, which comes from the hog’s back is a boneless cut that has a rich, buttery flavor and marbling that rivals even the finest steaks. This small, lean, and delicate cut is one of the most tender pork cuts sold.

How should it be prepared?

This lean cut is best when grilled, roasted, panfried, or even slow cooked due to its low fat content.

Why buy it?

The quintessential cut of lean pork comes from the finest loins around, meaning you won’t be disappointed by this fresh and delicious cut, especially when brined to perfection!


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