Types of cut
Each cut of white-skinned pork has its own characteristics and culinary uses. Understanding how the carcass is cut helps you make better choices at the shop and get the most out of each cut.
PIECE BY PIECE
The eight main cuts
Loin and Tenderloin
Lean
An elongated cut from the upper part of the rib. Very lean and versatile: grilled, roasted or served as steaks.
Ham
Lean
Hind leg. It is either cured or cut into lean cuts such as the shank and the round.
Shoulder
Lean
Front leg. Cured or fresh, with a slightly more intense flavour than ham.
Pork collar
Semi-full-fat
Neck area. Juicy and well-marbled: ideal for barbecuing and stews.
Pork belly
Fatty
The lower part of the rib, with alternating layers of lean meat and fat. Suitable for roasting, barbecuing and stews.
Ribs
Semi-full-fat
Ribs with meat still attached. Slow-cooked, grilled and oven-baked.
Pork knuckle
Collagen
Joint of the limb. Requires slow cooking: it falls apart and provides gelatine.
Head and jowl
Varied
Parts such as the cheek and jowl are obtained from it, and are widely used in traditional cooking.
Get to know each cut,
discover all its possibilities
Explore the different cuts of white-skinned porkand
click on each one to discover recipes,
and new ways to serve them.