What is Pork Secreto? An In-Depth Look at this Unique Spanish Cut

Pork secreto is a prized and flavorful cut of meat from the pig, but its name and uniqueness often lead to questions about exactly what it is. Secreto translates to “secret” in Spanish, an apt name for this little-known treasure. If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons, understanding pork secreto can open up new and delicious possibilities in the kitchen.

Where on the Pig Does Pork Secreto Come From?

Pork secreto comes from the shoulder of the pig, specifically the outside muscle of the shoulder known as the inframuscular fat This is the area right beneath the shoulder blade It’s a thin, flat muscle sandwiched between outer fat and inner connective tissue.

When trimmed off the shoulder pork secreto resembles a flat steak or flap of meat. It’s an elongated, rectangular shape rather than a typical round or square steak cut. The secreto muscle runs horizontally when the pig’s shoulder is viewed upright.

Why Is It Called “Secreto”?

The name secreto comes from this cut being relatively unknown outside of Spain. The Spanish have long prized this cut for its rich flavor. But only in recent years has pork secreto started gaining wider international recognition.

The secreto was a secret indulgence known mainly inside Spain for decades. Its obscurity contributed to the mystique surrounding this exceptional cut of pork. Even today it remains less ubiquitous globally than other popular cuts like pork chops or tenderloin.

What Does Pork Secreto Taste Like?

The pork secreto is incredibly flavorful and juicy with a luscious marbling of fat throughout. It tastes similar to a well-marbled ribeye steak. Expect a deeply porky, almost beefy flavor with savory umami notes.

When cooked, pork secreto develops a delectable charred crust on the outside while the interior stays tender and pink. The marbling provides incredible moisture so each bite seems to melt in your mouth with richness. It’s an extremely satisfying eating experience for any meat lover.

Why is Pork Secreto so Tender and Flavorful?

Two main characteristics account for the secreto’s stand-out texture and taste:

• Marbling – The extensive marbling of fat woven through the meat keeps it incredibly tender and moist while cooking. The fat also carries a ton of pork flavor.

• Muscle use – The secreto muscle doesn’t get much use by the pig, so the connective tissue remains relatively delicate. This keeps the cut tender instead of tough and chewy.

Pigs bred specifically for high quality meat, like acorn-fed Iberico pigs, will have even better marbling and tenderness in the secreto.

How Should You Cook Pork Secreto?

There are several excellent cooking methods that allow the succulence and flavor of pork secreto to shine:

• Pan searing – Cook briefly on high heat to develop a nice crust while keeping the interior pink. Works well for thinner cuts.

• Grilling – Excellent for getting char and smoky depth. Use lower heat to avoid overcooking.

• Roasting – Roast in the oven at 325°F until it reaches 145°F internally. Slice and serve.

• Braising – Braise secreto shoulder cuts low and slow until fork tender.

• Stewing – Cut into cubes to add rich pork flavor to stews and chili.

Pork secreto should be cooked to no more than medium doneness to retain moisture. Season simply with salt, pepper, and herbs or complement with sauces.

What Dishes Use Pork Secreto?

Beyond enjoying pork secreto on its own, there are many delicious ways to incorporate it into recipes:

• Tacos and fajitas
• Pizza and flatbreads
• Pasta Bolognese sauce
• Sandwiches and paninis
• Salads (served warm or cold)
• Rice bowls
• Hearty stews and soups
• Stir fries and fried rice

Substitute pork secreto in any recipe calling for pork tenderloin, pork chops, or steak. Its rich flavor stands out while still absorbing other ingredients nicely.

What Other Cuts are Similar to Pork Secreto?

• Hanger steak – Also from the pig’s shoulder. Relatively unknown as well. Similar rich, beefy flavor.

• Skirt steak – Cut from the diaphragm area with intense beefiness. Popular for fajitas.

• Flap meat steak – From behind the shoulder blade. Also called sirloin tip. Loose texture when cooked.

• Tri-tip roast – From the bottom sirloin. Packs robust flavor that takes well to grilling.

While none are exactly the same, these cuts share some traits with secreto like deep porkiness and loose grain when cooked.

Spotting Authentic Pork Secreto

True pork secreto only comes from the specific inframuscular shoulder muscle described. Be wary of imitation versions:

• Shoulder tender – Can be labeled as “secreto,” but actually comes from the arm portion of the shoulder, not the correct secreto muscle.

• Top blade steak – Sometimes incorrectly marketed as secreto, but it’s from the chuck area farther up the shoulder.

When buying pork secreto, look for the thin, flat shape to ensure it’s the real deal. Acorn-fed Iberico pork offers the best quality.

Secreto Provides a Taste of Spain

While it may have started as a Spanish secret, the exceptional flavor and texture of pork secreto is out in the open for all to savor. Sampling this prized cut is a tasty way to experience authentic Spanish cuisine. With its rich marbling and beefy porkiness, pork secreto promises a mouthwatering meal that diners won’t soon forget.