Warm summer nights. The laughter of friends and family. The sound of pork chops sizzling on the grill. There’s no better time to enjoy one of the most versatile, nutritious, affordable and delicious foods around – pork.
Why Pork?
With thousands and thousands of options for consumers to choose when it comes to putting meat on the grill, why pork?
Fresh and processed pork is versatile for your holiday celebration or weeknight dinner, says Neal Hull, director of domestic market development with the National Pork Board.
“Its blank palate can be amplified with Hispanic, Greek, Asian, barbecue or other seasonings for your snacks, appetizers or main courses,” Hull adds.
Memorial Day BBQ Tips
Before you fire up the grill this weekend, plan ahead. Determine if your pork needs to thaw or sit in a marinade or seasoning to absorb flavors, or if you have additional ingredients with varying cooking times, Hull recommends.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not using a binder or enough seasoning, he explains. Also, smaller cuts can cook fast, so ensure you have the ingredients and proper cookware nearby to avoid extra trips indoors.
“Use a digital meat thermometer to test for doneness, ensuring both a safe and delicious eating experience,” Hull says. “Measure the thickest part of the meat and away from the bone, or through the side if the cut is thinner is less than 3/4”. Avoid opening the grill or smoker too often for larger cuts.”
Don’t overcook pork, reminds Chad Carr, a meat scientist at the University of Florida.
“Loin cuts should be juicy and delicious if pulled from the grill at 145 degrees Fahrenheit tops,” Carr says. “Cook pork burgers to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.”
What Are You Hungry For?
When it comes time to choose which pork products to throw on the grill, Hull says the options are endless.
“Pork burgers are easy, affordable and versatile,” he points out. “Similarly, tenderized loin cutlets make a simple summer sandwich. More creative options and side dishes could include stuffed pork burgers, pork belly pinwheels, or bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers.”
Carr enjoys throwing blade end loin chops on the grill or something similar like the loin country style ribs you can purchase at Walmart, he says. Pork’s flavor and tenderness make it an appealing option, plus it’s affordable.
Be creative and try something new, Hulls advises.
“Whatever you’re craving, pork can do that,” he says.
Try these Taste What Pork Can Do® recipes.
Safety First
When it comes to grilling, don’t forget to prioritize food safety. First, don’t cross-contaminate. Make sure you don’t cross-contaminate fresh and cooked products. For example, people often throw their favorite grilling item on a tray to season their meat before taking out to the grill. Don’t use that same tray when you put cooked meat back on it, Carr advises.
Just rinsing it off is not enough to remove any harmful pathogens that could be put on the tray. Take it in and wash it.
