Can You Buy Pork Belly at Walmart?

Pork belly is a fatty, flavorful cut of meat that is growing in popularity The rich meat is used for everything from bacon to Asian dishes like pork belly buns. But can you readily find pork belly at the ubiquitous Walmart? Let’s find out.

What is Pork Belly?

Pork belly comes from the underside of a pig. It has a lot of fat compared to meat, and there are different layers of fat running through it.

Some key facts about pork belly:

• Very tender and juicy when cooked properly
• Excellent for braising, roasting, smoking, or confiting
• Can be cured into bacon or salt pork
• Popular in Asian and Latin American cuisines
• Provides rich, meaty flavor

The high fat content means it needs slow, moist cooking methods. When prepared well, pork belly makes for exceptionally succulent, flavorful meat

Is Fresh Pork Belly Sold at Walmart?

Yes, fresh pork belly is available for purchase at many Walmart locations. However, selection and availability varies by store.

Here are some tips on finding it:

• Check the refrigerated meat cases near the fresh pork cuts
• It may be labeled “fresh pork belly” or “boneless pork belly”
• Ask the butchers if they have any in the back
• Larger Supercenters tend to have better availability than smaller stores

The packaging typically includes nutrition facts weight, price per pound sell-by date, and safe handling instructions.

Typical Price Per Pound at Walmart

Expect to pay $3 to $6 per pound for fresh pork belly at Walmart. The price can fluctuate based on the store’s location, weekly sales, and supply availability.

Factors affecting Walmart’s pork belly costs include:

• Current market rates for pork
• Regional availability and demand
• Whether it’s conventionally or organically raised pork
• Any special pricing promotions being run

Watch for markdowns on expiration dated product for best deals. Prices are usually most affordable at higher volume Supercenters.

Buying Tips for Getting the Best Quality

Follow these tips when selecting your pork belly:

• Choose pieces with thick, evenly distributed fat layers
• Avoid belly with thinned out or discolored fat sections
• Look for glossy, firm meat portions without dry spots
• Pick pieces around 2 pounds for easiest cooking and serving
• Check the sell-by date and pick the longest lasting option

Inspect all sides and the freshly cut cross section before purchasing. Promptly refrigerate fresh pork belly until use.

How to Prepare and Cook Pork Belly from Walmart

Walmart’s pork belly can be prepared in all the same ways you would use belly from a butcher shop or specialty grocer. Some top preparation methods include:

• Curing for bacon – Dry cure with salt, sugar, and spices for 1-2 weeks

• Braising – Brown then braise in liquid for 2+ hours until fall off the bone tender

• Roasting – Roast in the oven at 325°F for 1-3 hours depending on size

• Grilling – Sear then indirect grill at low heat for 1-2 hours with charcoal or wood

• Smoking – Hot smoke between 225-275°F to an internal temp of at least 145°F

• Stewing – Cut into cubes and simmer in soups, stews, or braises

Walmart’s pork belly is just as versatile and flavorful as specialty cuts. With the right preparation, you can turn Walmart pork belly into restaurant-worthy dishes.

What Other Cuts of Pork Can You Buy at Walmart?

Beyond pork belly, Walmart offers a wide range of fresh pork options including:

• Pork chops – Bone-in or boneless, various thicknesses

• Pork tenderloin – Whole tenderloins, usually 1-2 pounds

• Pork shoulder – Bone-in or boneless, great for pulled pork

• Spareribs – Meaty ribs perfect for grilling

• Sausage – Fresh breakfast links, Italian, chorizo, brats, etc.

• Ground pork – Typically 80/20 or 85/15 lean/fat ratio

• Pork loin – For roasts, chops, or cutlets

• Pork butt – Also called Boston butt, for shredded or pulled pork

Their selection provides all the pork essentials for everyday cooking needs. Prices are very affordable compared to other grocery stores.

Can You Order Pork Belly Online for Pickup or Delivery?

Walmart now allows ordering meat and other groceries online for pickup at your selected store or delivery to your home (availability varies by location).

To find pork belly for pickup/delivery:

• Go to Walmart.com or the app and select your store
• Search for “pork belly” in the search bar
• Filter by choosing pork as the department
• Look for fresh pork belly selections
• Add to cart and checkout as usual

This is a convenient option if your location has poor pork belly selection in-store. Just remember to pick up/use within the same timeline as if shopping in person.

In Summary

While supply varies, Walmart does carry fresh pork belly at competitive prices in its meat departments. A little hunting around different locations and asking butchers can turn up excellent quality pork belly for all your cooking needs. By taking advantage of sales, buying bulk quantities, and freezing extras, Walmart can be a budget-friendly source for this prized cut of pork.