Smart Housewives Say: “When Buying Pork, I AVOID These 3 Parts”

2. Pork Shoulder (Boston Butt)

Pork shoulder, especially the Boston butt, is another cut that’s often avoided by those seeking leaner meals. Though it’s fantastic for slow-roasting or making pulled pork, it’s not always the go-to for everyday recipes.

• Tough and Fatty: While the marbling in pork shoulder makes it perfect for long cooking methods like braising or slow roasting, it can be too fatty for those who prefer lean cuts. Additionally, its tough texture means it requires more time and care to cook properly.
• Not Ideal for Quick Meals: If you’re in a hurry or want to whip up something fast, pork shoulder isn’t the most convenient option. Its long cooking time may make it less practical for weeknight dinners.

For quick, weeknight meals, many housewives reach for cuts like pork chops or tenderloin, which cook much faster and require less prep work.

3. Pork Ribs (Spare Ribs)

While pork ribs are beloved by many for barbecues and special occasions, they are not the first choice for a busy household meal, and for a good reason:

• Fatty and Messy: Spare ribs are often fatty and can be tough to prepare without the proper technique. The messiness of eating ribs is another turnoff for many home cooks, especially if they have young children or prefer a neater meal.
• Labor-Intensive: Preparing ribs involves marinating, slow cooking, and sometimes grilling, all of which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive for those looking for a quicker, less messy meal.

Instead, leaner cuts like pork tenderloin or chops can be just as flavorful but much easier to cook and serve, making them a go-to for busy housewives.

Conclusion

When it comes to buying pork, the three cuts that many experienced home cooks avoid are pork belly, pork shoulder, and pork ribs. While these cuts can be delicious in certain preparations, they often come with too much fat, require lengthy cooking times, or are simply too messy for everyday meals. Instead, leaner cuts like pork loin, tenderloin, and chops tend to be healthier, faster, and more versatile, making them the smarter choice for most home cooks.

By avoiding these three cuts and opting for leaner, easier-to-cook pork cuts, you’ll save time in the kitchen and prepare meals that are not only delicious but also a bit healthier!