Diced Pork Recipes

Scotland, with its pristine landscapes and time-honoured traditions, has always been renowned for producing some of the finest meats in the world. Among its most celebrated produce is Specially Selected Pork, which is a true testament to Scotland's commitment to quality and flavour and the hard work of generations of dedicated farmers.

Here, we will embark on a culinary journey, exploring both traditional and innovative diced pork recipes from hearty stews to more contemporary garlic pork bites that shine the spotlight on the unmatched quality and adaptability of Specially Selected Pork.

So, whether you are a confident cook or a novice chef improving your cooking skills, you are sure to find a favourite among these absolutely delicious cubed pork recipes. So, tie on your apron, sharpen those knives, and let's get cooking!

When it comes to meat, not all are created equal. Specially Selected Pork stands head and shoulders above the rest as a premium choice prioritising quality, taste and ethical production.

✅ Unparalleled Quality:

• Specially Selected Pork is not just any pork; it is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail from farm to fork. Raised under rigorous standards, this pork promises a consistently high quality that is evident in every bite.

✅ Traceability and Assurance:

• Knowing the origins of your food is important. With Specially Selected Pork, every piece can be traced back to Scottish farms that adhere to exceptional animal welfare standards. The QMS Assurance Scheme ensures that the pork you consume has met stringent criteria at every stage of production.

✅ Exceptional Flavour:

• The rich, verdant landscapes of Scotland not only provide picturesque views but also contribute to the unique, robust flavour profile of this meat. The natural diet and pristine environment ensure that the pork boasts a depth of flavour that is unrivalled.

✅ Ethical and Sustainable Production:

• Scotland's commitment to sustainable farming practices is evident in the production of Specially Selected Pork. By choosing this pork, consumers support an eco-friendly approach that prioritises animal welfare, environmental protection, and the well-being of local communities.

✅ Supporting the Local Economy:

• Behind every cut of Specially Selected Pork is a community of dedicated Scottish farmers, butchers, and workers. By investing in this premium product, you are supporting the local Scottish economy and ensuring that age-old farming traditions continue to thrive.

What Cut of Meat is Diced Pork?

Diced pork can come from various cuts of the pig, depending on the intended use or desired texture.

• Pork Shoulder (or Pork Butt): Despite its name, the pork butt is actually from the upper part of the pig's shoulder. It is an inexpensive and flavourful cut with a good mix of meat and fat, making it ideal for stews, braising, and slow-cooking. It's often diced for dishes that require longer cooking times because of its connective tissue, which breaks down and becomes tender with extended cooking.
• Loin: This is a leaner cut that comes from the back of the pig. It's tender and can be diced for quick-cooking dishes like stir-fries or skewers. Overcooking can dry it out due to its low-fat content.
• Leg (or Ham): This cut can also be used for diced pork, especially in dishes that need a meatier, leaner bite. It is typically used in dishes that don't require long cooking times unless it's slow-cooked or braised.
• Belly: Though it's more commonly known for producing bacon, pork belly can also be diced, especially for dishes that benefit from a fattier cut. This cut renders a lot of fat when cooked, which can add rich flavour to dishes.
• Tenderloin: This is the most tender cut of pork. Pork tenderloin is a long, narrow, boneless cut of meat that comes from the muscle that runs along the backbone. It's a lean muscle that's located within the loin. While it can be diced, it's best used for quick-cooking methods to retain its tenderness.
• Rib Meat: Sometimes, the meat between the ribs is diced and used in various dishes. It has a mix of lean meat and fat.
  
  

Preparing the Perfect Diced Pork Recipes

Whether you are creating a traditional Scottish casserole with mashed potatoes or venturing into the world of modern fusion cooking with spicy garlic ginger pork bites on a bed of steamed rice, starting with perfectly prepared diced pork is key to unlocking the full potential of this stunning ingredient.

✅ Selecting the Right Cuts:

• Leaner Dishes: For recipes requiring a leaner, quicker cook, opt for cuts from the loin or tenderloin. These parts are tender and have less connective tissue, making them ideal for stir-fries or skewers.
• Rich, Slow-Cooked Meals: If you are aiming for a dish that will be cooked slowly, allowing flavours to fuse over time, the shoulder (or pork butt) is your best bet. Its marbling and connective tissue break down beautifully, rendering the meat succulent and flavourful.

✅ Marinating and Seasoning:

• Salt and Time: A simple yet effective tip is to salt your diced pork at least an hour before cooking. This process, often referred to as a "dry brine," enhances the meat's natural flavours and aids in retaining moisture.
• Herbs and Spices: Herbs such as dried thyme, rosemary, and sage, paired with garlic, can accentuate the natural flavours of the pork. For a modern twist, experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or cumin.
• Acidity: Incorporate a touch of acidity in your marinades — be it from apple cider vinegar, wine, or citrus. This not only tenderises the meat but also brings a balance of flavours.

✅ Matching the Meat:

• Soak Up the Sauce: Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy mashed potatoes are excellent for absorbing savoury sauces and enhancing the overall flavour of the dish.
• Refreshing Counterparts: A crisp green salad with apples or a tangy vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty nature of pork dishes.
• Roasted Companions: Roasted root vegetables, like carrots or parsnips, pair wonderfully with pork, sharing the warmth and heartiness of a comforting meal.
• Zesty Pick-Me-Ups: Pickled condiments, such as kimchi or pickled red onions, can cut through the succulence of the pork, adding a burst of zest and tang.
• Noodle Delight: Depending on the preparation, noodles, be it egg noodles or Asian varieties, can complement stir-fried or stewed pork preparations.
• Bread Essentials: Fresh bread, from crusty baguettes to soft dinner rolls, is ideal for scooping up any leftover sauce and complements the texture of diced pork.

Global Diced Pork Dishes

Pork has found its way into the heart of many culinary traditions around the world. Its versatility is showcased brilliantly when diced, acting as a flavorful canvas for a mosaic of spices, herbs, and cooking techniques. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the rustic kitchens of Tuscany, discover how diced pork is transformed into delectable dishes around the world.

• European Cuisine: Creamy Pork Medley is a quintessential European dish where diced pork is sautéed with chestnut mushrooms and onions, then simmered in a rich white wine and Dijon mustard-infused creamy sauce with chopped parsley, delivering a luxurious blend of textures and flavours.
• Chinese Cuisine: Diced pork features prominently in a variety of Chinese dishes, including classics like Sweet and Sour Pork, where the tender pork meat is deep-fried and tossed in a tangy sauce, or in stir-fries like Moo Shu Pork.
• Mexican Cuisine: Diced pork is a star in dishes such as Carnitas, where it is slow-cooked to perfection, and Chicharrón Prensado, a spicy dish made from pressed pork rinds.
• Italian Cuisine: In dishes like Maiale in Agrodolce, cubed pork is cooked in a sweet and sour sauce, highlighting the meat's versatility in Mediterranean flavours.
• Thai Cuisine: Moo Pad Krapow is a popular Thai dish where diced pork is stir-fried with holy basil and a medley of spices and soy sauce, offering a delightful burst of flavours.
• Spanish Cuisine: Diced pork is often used in tapas dishes like Chicharrón, or in stews like Fabada Asturiana, which combines pork with beans and sausages.
• Indian Cuisine: In some regions, particularly in the northeast of India and in states like Goa, diced pork makes its way into dishes like Pork Vindaloo, a spicy and tangy curry.
• Vietnamese Cuisine: Thịt Kho is a dish where diced pork is braised with eggs in coconut water, delivering a harmonious blend of savoury and sweet notes.
• Hungarian Cuisine: Pörkölt is a hearty stew where diced pork takes centre stage, seasoned with paprika and simmered until tender, often served with a hunk of crusty bread.
• Brazilian Cuisine: In traditional dishes like Feijoada, diced pork is combined with black beans and various other meat cuts, offering a rich and filling meal.
• Caribbean Cuisine: Diced pork is often marinated with a mix of spices and herbs, then stewed or grilled, as seen in dishes like Stewed Pork in Trinidad and Tobago.
  

The versatility of diced pork is evident in its widespread use across various global cuisines. Its ability to fuse with an array of flavours, spices, and cooking techniques highlights its universal appeal.

Where Can I Find Specially Selected Pork Near Me?

If you are looking for Specially Selected Pork in your vicinity, look no further than our user-friendly interactive map. Simply enter your location and the map will guide you to your nearest Scotch meat butcher or supplier, and you will be cooking up a storm in no time!

Supporting Scottish Farmers

By choosing Specially Selected Pork, you are also supporting our dedicated Scottish farmers who have been carrying out time-honoured farming traditions for generations ensuring that only the best produce graces our tables.

Click on the map today and cook something truly spectacular for the whole family!