For many cooks, the thought of preparing beef and pork dishes can be intimidating. After all, these two meats have long been considered the benchmark of quality in the culinary world. But for those who are looking to explore new cuts of beef and pork, there’s a world of options to choose from, many of which are lesser-known and might even be far more interesting than the staples.
From the classic hanger steak to the lesser-known pork jowls,we’ll explore the world of the less popular cuts of beef and pork. Make sure to get your meat from a trusted butcher delivery service to get the finest-quality varieties.
Beef Cuts
When it comes to beef, the most popular cuts tend to be ribeye, sirloin and tenderloin. But the truth is that there’s a world of options outside of them. If you’re looking for something different, you can try hanger steak, which is a cut of beef that comes from the plate primal near the diaphragm, and is often considered to be one of the most flavoursome cuts of beef.
Also known as ‘hanging tenderloin’ or ‘butcher’s steak,’ hanger steak offers a unique, beefy flavour that’s perfect for grilling or pan-frying.
Another lesser-known but delicious cut of beef is the flat iron steak, likewise known as ‘butler’s steak’ or ‘top blade steak.’ This cut comes from the shoulder blade of the cow and is incredibly tender and packed with flavour. It’s best cooked over high heat, mainly because it can become tough if cooked for too long.
Pork Cuts
If you love pork, you know that the most popular cuts are usually chops and bacon. But like beef, there’s number of other cuts of pork that are just as delicious but often overlooked. For example, pork jowls are a cut of pork that comes from the cheeks of the pig. Known for being incredibly flavoursome, pork jowls are often used in traditional Italian dishes, such as guanciale, which is cured and used in pasta dishes.
Just a little less popular than the previously mentioned cuts is the pork belly, which is obviously a fatty cut of meat that comes from the underside of the pig. Pork belly can be used in a variety of dishes, including something as simple as pulled pork sandwiches. It’s also a great option for slow-cooking, as it will become incredibly tender and flavourful.
Conclusion
Exploring beyond the usual cuts of beef and pork opens up a whole new realm of culinary possibilities. All the different flavours and textures can expand your palate and, if you’re a cook, can potentially elevate your culinary skills to new heights.
The next time you order from a butcher delivery service, dare to venture outside of the familiar cuts and experiment with the hidden gems of beef and pork. You might just stumble upon a new favourite cut!
Have you tried any lesser-known cuts of beef or pork? How was it?
