Fresh pork shoulder is one of the most versatile and economical cuts you can find on the market. While cured pork shoulder is popular for its intense flavour, the fresh version of this cut offers you endless possibilities to prepare delicious dishes. At César Nieto Group we have the best quality Iberian pork shoulder and now you will know how to choose the best one.
What is the Iberian pork shoulder?
The Iberian pork shoulder is the cut that comes from the upper part of the animal’s front legs, near the shoulder. Unlike the hind leg, which is used for the famous ham, the shoulder contains a higher amount of collagen and intramuscular fats, which makes it ideal for slow and long cooking.
This type of meat, when cooked properly, is extremely tender and juicy. Moreover, being more affordable than other cuts such as loin or ham, it is a perfect choice for those who want to prepare hearty meals without spending too much.
What to consider when buying fresh pork shoulder?
When you go to buy fresh pork shoulder, it is important to pay attention to some details to make sure you are buying a quality product. At César Nieto we know a lot about quality meat from the Iberian pig and that is why we give you these tips to help you choose the best pork shoulder.
Freshness
The meat should have a bright pink colour and should not have grey or dark areas. It is also important that it does not give off an unpleasant smell. If the shoulder has a strong or sour smell, it is best to avoid it.
Marbling
Look for a shoulder with a good amount of intramuscular fat (those white streaks you see in the meat). This marbling is key to ensuring that the meat is tender and tasty after cooking.
Texture
The meat should be firm to the touch, but not stiff. If the shoulder is too soft or sticky, it is a sign that it is not at its best.
Bone-in or boneless cut
You can find fresh pork shoulder on the bone or boneless. The bone-in version is ideal for long roasts, as the bone adds flavour and helps maintain the juiciness of the meat. Boneless pork shoulder is easier to handle and cut, making it a practical choice for stews or quick cooking.
Sourced from
If possible, opt for fresh pork shoulder sourced locally or from sustainably raised pigs such as those from César Nieto. This guarantees greater freshness and also better quality and flavour.
Benefits of fresh pork shoulder
Fresh pork shoulder is a versatile and nutritious cut that provides a number of culinary and nutritional benefits. It is rich in high quality proteins, which are essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
High in quality protein
Pork shoulder is rich in high biological value protein, which means that it contains all the essential amino acids necessary for the repair and building of tissues, including muscles. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to build muscle mass or maintain a balanced protein diet.
Source of B vitamins
This cut of pork is an excellent source of B vitamins, especially vitamin B1 (thiamine), B6 and B12, which are essential for energy metabolism and the proper functioning of the nervous system. These vitamins also play a key role in the production of red blood cells and the prevention of anaemia.
Essential minerals
Fresh Iberian pork shoulder provides minerals such as iron, phosphorus and zinc. Iron is important for the production of haemoglobin and for combating fatigue. Phosphorus is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, while zinc contributes to strengthening the immune system and wound healing.
Healthy fats in balanced amounts
Although pork shoulder has a higher fat content than other lean cuts, the fat it contains is mostly intramuscular, which gives it a juicy texture and intense flavour. In addition, a significant portion of this fat is monounsaturated, especially oleic acid, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health when consumed in moderation.
Versatility in the kitchen
Fresh pork shoulder is ideal for different types of cooking: roasted, braised, grilled or in stews. Its ability to maintain juiciness and good flavour, even in long cooking, makes it perfect for hearty, family-style dishes. This makes it a key ingredient for a varied and rich diet.
Ideal for slow-cooked preparations
Due to its high collagen content, fresh pork shoulder is ideal for slow cooking, making it an excellent ingredient for comforting dishes such as stews, casseroles and pulled pork. With prolonged cooking, the collagen transforms into gelatine, making the meat even more tender and flavoursome.
Thus, buying fresh pork shoulder is an excellent option if you are looking for a versatile, economical and delicious cut. This Iberian pork cut will allow you to prepare a variety of tasty and nutritious dishes. Visit the César Nieto shop and buy the best quality shoulder on the market and perfect for you!
