Leg

Fresh pork leg, also known as fresh ham, is the uncured hind leg of the hog.

Ham is leg meat that has been dry- or wet-cured.
Loin
Canadian-style bacon is fully-cooked, smoked pork loin.
Loin roast comes from the area of the pig between the shoulder and the beginning of the leg It is sold either bone-in or boneless.

Rack of pork is also referred to as  Pork rib roast (it also may be labeled center-cut pork loin). The cut originates in the rib area of the loin.

Back ribs originate from the blade and center section of the pork loin.

Country-style ribs are cut from the sirloin or rib end of the pork loin.

Cutlets are thin, tender cuts of pork that are often taken from the sirloin end of the loin.

Crown roast is an attractive special-occasion entrée created using a pork rib roast/rack of pork.
Pork chops are the most popular cut from the pork loin
Tenderloin comes from the full pork loin.

Pork cubes, slices/strips are extremely versatile. They are typically cut from the loin area - but cubes and slices/strips may be cut from virtually any fresh pork cut.

Side
Spareribs come from the belly of the hog and are known for their delicious, meaty pork flavor.
Bacon comes from the side - or belly –that has been cured and smoked.
Pork belly comes from a pig’s ‘belly’ or underside after the loin and spareribs have been removed.
Shoulder Butt

Pork shoulder is the top portion of the front leg of the hog.

Sausage is seasoned ground pork that is often enclosed in a casing. May be fresh, smoked or cured.
Blade steaks (also called pork steaks) are cut from the pork shoulder and contain the blade bone.
Ground Pork is pork that has been ground. It is unseasoned and usually is available fresh.
Arm Picnic Shoulder
Smoked hock and shank are flavorful, inexpensive cuts that originate in the front leg of the pig.
 
Home  >  Pork Basics | Top Ten Pork Recipes from the National Pork Board

Pork Cuts and Cooking Methods

What’s a Boston Butt? How long should I roast this Pork Loin? If you have questions regarding a pork cut or cooking method, you’re in the right place! We’ve gathered information regarding the most popular pork cuts and preparation methods to help you create great, juicy and flavorful pork dishes all year long.


Cooking Methods



There are so many ways to prepare your favorite pork cut. Below we have highlighted the most populuar methods of preparation from Grilling to Whole Hog Roasting. Learn more about proper cooking methods to ensure that your pork dish turns out perfectly tender and juicy every time.


Cuts Information



There are so many options when it comes to selecting a cut to prepare for your next meal. We’ve gathered information about pork’s most popular cuts in the meat case so you can learn more and feel confident in preparing your pork. Select a cut below for tips and more information regarding cooking methods and recipe ideas.


Popular Meal Ideas

Popular Meal Ideas

Preparation Time

Cut of Pork

Cooking Times Chart

Cooking Method

Pork Cut

View all cuts comparison chart

Cooking Method:

Pork Cut:

View all cuts comparison chart
 
Freebies
A variety of materials and brochures are available for free.
I "Heart" Pork
The Latest from Pork, Knife & Spoon
Our Heritage Brand
Discover more about our heritage brand, The Other White Meat®.
Media
Other Sites
Contact|About the National Pork Board|Site Map|Privacy
Email updates Sign up for new recipe alerts and other news about pork
Email Signup
RSS Feed
Twitter
Facebook

©2009-2012 National Pork Board, Des Moines, IA USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Producers and the Pork Checkoff.