Where to Buy Pork Collar: A Comprehensive Guide

Pork collar, also known as the center cut boneless pork butt, is a highly sought-after cut of meat prized for its exceptional marbling and rich flavor. Its versatility makes it a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts and home cooks alike, lending itself to a range of cooking methods including braising, smoking, and roasting.

Identifying Pork Collar

Pork collar is derived from the top of the shoulder, specifically the natural seam between the blade and under-blade. It is characterized by its intense marbling, which contributes to its exceptional juiciness and tenderness. The fat cap is typically trimmed to the false lean, while the neck end is slightly squared.

Benefits of Pork Collar

The unique qualities of pork collar make it a standout choice for discerning meat lovers:

• Exceptional Marbling: The abundant marbling within the meat ensures exceptional moisture and flavor, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

• Versatility: Pork collar’s adaptability shines through various cooking methods. Whether braised, smoked, or roasted, it consistently delivers succulent and flavorful results.

• Health Benefits: Pork collar is a rich source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Where to Buy Pork Collar

Pork collar is not as readily available as other cuts of pork, but it can be found at specialty butchers and online retailers. Here are a few reputable sources where you can purchase high-quality pork collar:

• ButcherBox: ButcherBox offers a monthly subscription service that delivers premium cuts of meat, including pork collar, to your doorstep.

• Snake River Farms: Known for their exceptional Wagyu beef, Snake River Farms also offers a limited selection of pork products, including pork collar.

• Heritage Farms Cheshire Pork: Heritage Farms specializes in heritage breed pork, including pork collar, which can be purchased online or at their retail store in North Carolina.

• Marbleridge Specialty Farms: Marbleridge Specialty Farms offers a range of premium pork products, including pork collar, available for purchase online or at their retail store in Missouri.

Cooking Pork Collar

Pork collar is a versatile cut that can be prepared using various methods to achieve different flavor profiles and textures. Here are a few popular cooking techniques:

• Braising: Braising involves slowly cooking the pork collar in a flavorful liquid, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.

• Smoking: Smoking imparts a rich, smoky flavor to the pork collar, making it a popular choice for BBQ enthusiasts.

• Roasting: Roasting is a simple yet effective method that allows the natural flavors of the pork collar to shine through.

Pork collar is an exceptional cut of meat that elevates any culinary experience. Its intense marbling, versatility, and health benefits make it a sought-after choice among meat enthusiasts. Whether you purchase it from a specialty butcher, online retailer, or local farm, pork collar is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more.