When planning Sunday dinner, choosing the right cut of pork can make all the difference. Pork is a versatile meat that can be prepared in a variety of ways, so considering factors like taste, tenderness, and cost will help determine the best option for your meal. In the opening section, we’ll provide a quick overview of the most popular cuts of pork and their characteristics to keep in mind.
Quick Guide to Pork Cuts
Here is a quick reference for some of the most common pork cuts:
Tenderloin
The pork tenderloin is a thin, tender cut from the loin. It has very little fat and cooks quickly, making it ideal for weeknight meals. Pork tenderloin can be roasted, grilled, or pan seared.
Loin Roast
A pork loin roast contains a section of the loin with some of the tenderloin. It has a good balance of tenderness and fat. Loin roasts are often stuffed, tied, and roasted for Sunday dinners.
Shoulder
Pork shoulder contains more fat than other cuts and has lots of connective tissue. Shoulder sections like the Boston butt or picnic roast must be cooked slowly to break down the connective tissue. Pulled pork and carnitas are made from pork shoulder.
Ribs
Pork ribs have a lot of connective tissue and fat, which makes them ideal for slow roasting or grilling. Baby back ribs come from the loin area while spareribs are from the belly. Country-style ribs are cut from the shoulder.
Ham
Ham contains a portion of rear leg/thigh. It is cured and smoked for additional flavor. Hams can be cooked many ways but are especially popular for holidays like Easter.
Bacon
Bacon is made from pork belly meat that has been cured and smoked. It is often fried to a crisp finish.
Factors for Choosing a Sunday Pork Cut
When deciding which cut of pork to use for your special Sunday dinner, here are some factors to consider:
Number of People
Larger cuts like a shoulder roast or ham are ideal for feeding a crowd, while smaller cuts like tenderloin may be better for a smaller gathering. Make sure to pick a cut that will provide enough meat for your guests.
Preparation Time
If time is limited, choose a quicker-cooking cut like tenderloin or boneless chops. Shoulder or ribs require long, slow cooking times, so plan accordingly if choosing those cuts.
Flavor and Texture
Cuts like tenderloin or loin have a milder flavor and tender texture. Shoulder cuts and ribs have more fat, connective tissue and robust pork flavor. Consider which qualities are most important for your meal.
Cost
Less expensive cuts like shoulder provide great value. Tenderloin is quick-cooking but costs more per pound. A bone-in cut can also help stretch your budget.
Ease of Cooking
Opt for cuts that align with your cooking abilities and comfort level in the kitchen. Quick pan frying or roasting is simplest, while long smoked or braised dishes require more time and technique.
Top Pork Cuts for Sunday Dinner
Based on the criteria above, here are some top options to consider for your special Sunday pork meal:
Shoulder Roast
A pork shoulder roast, also called a Boston butt, makes a superb Sunday dinner option. It has great pork flavor from the fat and connective tissue. The size can easily feed a crowd. Shoulder roasts only require seasoning and roasting low and slow for pulled pork sandwiches or carnitas.
Rack of Pork
For a showstopper meal, a rack of pork makes an elegant and impressive centerpiece. It cooks quickly since the meat is tender and lean. The rack can be crusted with spices or herbs for added flavor. Perfect roasted or grilled.
Crown Roast
A crown roast features bone-in pork chops arranged in a circle, frenched and tied. The impressive presentation is ideal for holidays and celebrations. Cooks fairly quickly and offers individual chops for serving.
Fresh Ham
A fresh ham is from the back leg of the pig. It offers great pork flavor in a larger size for feeding a group. Takes a bit longer to cook but minimal preparation time. Ideal for glazing or roasting.
Pork Loin Roast
A boneless center cut pork loin roast provides a tender, delicious option without much hands-on time. It can be stuffed, rubbed with spices, or roasted simply with herbs. Offers great portion control for servings.
| Cut | Flavor | Tenderness | Cook Time | Ease of Cooking | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shoulder Roast | Robust | Tough | Long | Easy | Cheap |
| Rack of Pork | Mild | Very Tender | Medium | Intermediate | Expensive |
| Crown Roast | Mild | Tender | Medium | Intermediate | Expensive |
| Fresh Ham | Robust | Moderately Tender | Long | Easy | Moderate |
| Pork Loin Roast | Mild | Very Tender | Medium | Easy | Moderate |
Complementary Side Dishes
The right side dishes can round out your Sunday pork menu. Here are some excellent options to consider:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted potato wedges, sweet potatoes, cauliflower or Brussels sprouts make a tasty accompaniment to pork. Toss the veggies in olive oil, salt, pepper and herbs before roasting.
Green Salad
A fresh green salad balances the richness of pork. Make a simple vinaigrette or dress with olive oil and acid like lemon juice or vinegar. Top with nuts or diced veggies for extra flavor.
Baked Beans
No pork dinner is complete without baked beans! Traditional baked beans stewed with bacon or ham hocks make a savory, satisfying side.
Cornbread
Buttery cornbread is a perfect match for pork. Bake your cornbread from scratch or use a boxed mix. Serve it alongside pulled pork or ribs.
Coleslaw
A vinegar-based coleslaw cuts through the fattiness of pork. For variety, try different slaw styles like citrusy, Asian, or creamy.
Skillet Apples
Pork and apples complement each other wonderfully. Saute sliced apples in butter, sugar and cinnamon for a simple side. Sprinkle on some raisins or nuts too.
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf provides a starch to round out the meal. Make it with chicken stock for extra flavor. Stir in peas, carrots or other veggies if desired.
Conclusion
When planning for Sunday dinner, pork offers delicious options like shoulder roast, fresh ham, or an elegant rib roast. Consider the number of guests, prep time, cost, and ease of cooking when deciding on a cut. Pair your pork with classic side dishes like baked beans, coleslaw, or cornbread. With so many excellent cuts and preparations, pork makes for an appealing, flavorful Sunday supper.