Pork is a versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from roasting to grilling to stir-frying. But when it comes to pork cuts, it can be confusing to know which part of the pig each cut comes from.
One cut that often causes confusion is the pork tenderloin. Is it the same as the pork loin? Where does it come from on the pig?
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of pork cuts and explore what part of the pig the pork tenderloin comes from. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to learn about this delicious cut of meat!
What Part Of The Pig Is The Pork Tenderloin?
The pork tenderloin is a long, thin, boneless cut of meat that comes from the muscle that runs along the backbone of the pig. This muscle is called the psoas major muscle and is located ventral to the lumbar vertebrae. It is the most tender part of the pig because it is used for posture rather than locomotion.
The pork tenderloin should not be confused with the pork loin, which is a wider and flatter cut of meat that can be boneless or bone-in. The pork loin comes from the back of the pig and can be roasted or cut into individual chops or cutlets.
Hogs are bred to have extra long loins so they can have up to 17 ribs, unlike beef and lamb which have 13. The entire pork loin can be roasted or it can be cut into individual chops or cutlets. The tenderloin is taken from the rear of the pork loin and baby-back ribs come from the upper ribcage area of the loin. Above the loin is another section of fatback which can be used for making lard, salt pork, or added to sausage or ground pork.
Understanding Pork Cuts: The Basics
When it comes to understanding pork cuts, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the various names and options available. However, it’s important to know the basics in order to choose the right cut for your desired dish.
Pork primal cuts are initially broken down into four main pieces: the shoulder, loin, side/belly, and leg. These primal cuts are then further divided into sub-primal cuts such as rib roast, tenderloin, pork belly, and bacon. Each sub-primal cut has its own unique qualities that contribute to the flavor and texture of the meat.
For example, the shoulder is a versatile cut that can either be minced or diced for slow-cooking in stews or slow-roasted until tender and falling apart. The loin is a leaner cut that includes the tenderloin, which is the most tender part of the pig due to its lack of use for locomotion. The side/belly is where bacon comes from, while the leg is often used for ham.
It’s important to pay attention to the specific cut of pork you have when choosing the best preparation methods. Pork chops can come from different parts of the loin, such as rib, sirloin, top loin, and blade chops. Backribs originate from the blade and center section of the pork loin, while country-style ribs are cut from the sirloin or rib end of the pork loin.
When cooking with pork, it’s important to remember that it’s a blank canvas that can benefit from sauces, seasonings, and smoking. The nomenclature for meat cuts may not be consistent across animals or countries, so it’s important to do your research and ask your butcher for clarification if needed.
Pork Tenderloin Vs. Pork Loin: What’s The Difference?
While pork tenderloin and pork loin may sound similar, they are actually two very different cuts of meat from different parts of the pig. The most noticeable difference is the size and shape. Pork tenderloin is a long, thin, boneless cut of meat that comes from the muscle that runs along the backbone of the pig. Pork loin, on the other hand, is wider and flatter and can be boneless or bone-in. It comes from the back of the pig.
Another significant difference between these two cuts of meat is their cooking methods. Pork tenderloin is best cooked quickly over high heat, while pork loin is better suited for slow-roasting or grilling methods. This is because pork tenderloin is a leaner cut with less fat, which means it can dry out quickly if overcooked. Pork loin, on the other hand, has a higher fat content and benefits from longer cooking times to allow the fat to render and keep the meat moist.
In terms of flavor and texture, pork tenderloin is known for being incredibly tender and mild in flavor. Pork loin has a slightly firmer texture and a more robust flavor due to its higher fat content.
Location, Location, Location: Where Does The Pork Tenderloin Come From?
The pork tenderloin comes from the psoas major muscle that runs along the backbone of the pig. This muscle is located ventral to the lumbar vertebrae and is the most tender part of the pig because it is used for posture rather than locomotion. The pork tenderloin is a long, thin, boneless cut of meat that is prized for its tenderness and flavor.
It is important to note that the pork tenderloin should not be confused with the pork loin. The pork loin is a wider and flatter cut of meat that can be boneless or bone-in. It comes from the back of the pig and can be roasted or cut into individual chops or cutlets.
The pork tenderloin is a highly sought-after cut of meat because of its tenderness and versatility in cooking. It can be roasted, grilled, or sautéed and pairs well with a variety of flavors and seasonings. Its lean nature also makes it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.
Preparing And Cooking Pork Tenderloin: Tips And Tricks
When it comes to cooking pork tenderloin, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly tender and juicy.
Firstly, it is important to season the pork properly. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as sriracha seasoning, pepper, garlic, chile flakes and salt, to taste. It is recommended to cover and chill the seasoned pork for at least an hour or overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when cooking pork tenderloin is overcooking it. To avoid this, it is important to cook the pork to an internal temperature of 145°F. This will ensure that the meat is safe to consume while still being juicy and tender. It is also important to allow the pork to rest for at least five minutes before slicing, as this allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
There are several methods for cooking pork tenderloin, including baking, grilling, or pan-searing. Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to preheat your oven or grill fully before cooking. If you are roasting your pork tenderloin in the oven, be sure not to cover it during cooking as this will prevent a crisp surface from forming.
When it comes to serving pork tenderloin, there are many delicious side dishes that pair well with this cut of meat. Pork tenderloin steaks go well with baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, fries or some salad. Stewed or braised tenderloin pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta or flatbread. Additionally, adding a delicious mushroom sauce can take your dish to the next level.
Delicious Pork Tenderloin Recipes To Try At Home
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to prepare pork tenderloin at home, look no further than these recipes. From Asian-inspired stir-fry to oven-baked goodness, these recipes are sure to please the whole family.
First up is an oven-baked pork tenderloin recipe that is both juicy and flavorful. To start, brine the pork in a mixture of kosher salt, cider vinegar, brown sugar, and ice cubes for 20 minutes. After rinsing and patting dry, season generously with spices like chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Sear the pork in a skillet with vegetable oil before adding dried herbs like parsley, basil, oregano, and thyme along with lemon juice and butter. Wrap the pork in foil and bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 145-150 degrees Fahrenheit.
For an Asian-inspired twist on pork tenderloin, try this stir-fry recipe. Thinly slice the pork and cook it in a sauce made with orange juice, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Add in bok choy and carrots (or other veggies of your choice) for a healthy and delicious meal.
If you’re looking for a pork chop version of this dish, check out the garlic butter pork chop recipe mentioned above. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the spice blends in the oven-baked recipe for your favorite flavors like curry powder or Cajun seasoning.