Pork loin is a versatile and delicious meat option that is perfect for both quick weekday meals and special occasions. It pairs well with a variety of flavors and can be prepared using different cooking methods.
The Price of Pork Loin
The cost of pork loin can vary depending on your location and where you choose to purchase it. If you buy pork loin from a local grocery store, you can expect to pay anywhere between $4 and $7 per pound. Boneless cuts typically cost around $5 per pound, while bone-in pork loin may be slightly cheaper, around $4 per pound. The pork loin butt portion usually costs around $5 per pound as well.
If you prefer shopping at warehouse stores, Costco sells pork loin for approximately $4.15 per pound, while Sam’s Club offers all-natural pork loin for around $3.75 per pound. Another option is to purchase 100% natural reserve pork loin from Joe’s Butcher Shop online, which is priced between $5 and $7 per pound.
According to a member of the A Full Cup forum, the price of pork loin generally falls between $4 and $6 per pound.
Pork Loin Details
It’s important to note that pork loin is different from pork tenderloin. Pork loin is wider and can be cut into steaks, while tenderloin is thinner and smaller. The taste of pork loin is milder, and the cut is relatively lean with a thicker layer of fat on top. When cooked properly, pork loin can be quite tender.
Pork loin can be purchased boneless or bone-in. Bone-in loins have the backbone removed and the ribs trimmed for easier cooking. The typical weight of a pork loin roast ranges from two to six pounds.
A serving of 85 grams of pork loin contains 137 calories and four grams of fat. It has 65 milligrams of cholesterol compared to 72 grams in chicken breast, with only one gram of saturated fat.
Important Considerations
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to cut pork loin to a thickness of at least half an inch. This thickness ensures that the meat retains its juiciness during cooking.
The cooking time for pork loin is approximately 25 minutes at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
When selecting fresh pork loin for grilling, look for pale, pink meat with a small amount of fat. The fat adds flavor and sweetness to the meat.
The small layer of fat around the pork loin enhances its taste and texture. When pan-frying the meat to create a crust, keep the pork loin on one side with kitchen tongs to brown the fat in the pan. If desired, you can remove the fat after browning the meat or once it’s out of the oven.
Avoid pounding the pork loin with a meat hammer before grilling.
To ensure even cooking, remove the pork loin from the refrigerator at least 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. Avoid cooking the meat directly from the fridge.
If marinating the meat, be sure to pat it dry thoroughly before grilling. Excess moisture can prevent the meat from browning nicely.
Many chefs prefer bone-in pork loin for its unique aroma. The bone also helps to cook the meat evenly, resulting in well-done meat with a nicely browned crust.
How to Cut Pork Loin
When it comes to saving money on pork loin, pay attention to the promotions and discounts offered at grocery stores. Many stores have special deals on various meats, including pork loin.
If the price is low enough, consider purchasing more pork loin and freezing it for later use.
Remember, Hook’d Up Bar and Grill offers high-quality pork loin that can be enjoyed in a variety of delicious dishes. Visit Hook’d Up Bar and Grill to explore their menu and experience the best pork loin options.