Pork Cushion Vs Pork Shoulder: What’s The Difference?
The difference between pork cushion and pork shoulder is the amount of fat content.
The two are very similar in that they both come from the area where a pig’s neck meets its back.
Pork cushion has more fat, which makes it juicier when cooked than a pork shoulder.
In this article, we will compare two these cuts.
What is special about pork cushion?
There is a lot of confusion about the term “pork cushion”, but it is just an alternative name for pork belly.
Pork cushion was originally called this because it is so fatty that it has enough meat to cover your bottom when you sit on it.
Pork cushions are not only delicious but they can be used in many different dishes from breakfast foods to dinner entrees to even desserts!
What is special about pork shoulder?
Pork shoulder is a cut of meat that can be taken from the upper part of the animal’s front leg.
It is also called pork butt, Boston roast, or fresh ham.
Pork shoulders are usually boneless and weigh between 5-10 pounds.
They are often cured with salt and spices before being cooked so they have a sweet flavor.
What are the differences between pork cushion and pork shoulder?
Pork shoulder and pork cushion are both delicious cuts of meat, but they do have some differences.
The differences between them are presented below:
| Pork cushion | Pork shoulder | |
| Texture | A cut of meat from the pig’s rib cage Pork cushion has more fat than pork shoulder, which makes it juicier and tastier | Pork shoulder comes from the front leg and upper arm of the pig Pork shoulder has less fat and more connective tissue than pork cushion, which makes it tougher to chew |
| Cooking time | The cooking time for pork cushion is shorter because it cooks faster at higher temperatures | Pork shoulder takes longer to cook because it needs to be braised or roasted for hours before being served |
| Cooking method | Pork cushion can be cooked by braising or roasting. | Pork shoulder should be cooked by roasting or smoking. |
| Serving | Pork picnic is typically used in dishes like pulled pork sandwiches | The leaner meat of the shoulder makes it ideal for dishes like pulled chicken sandwiches |
| Price | Pork cushion is more expensive because it is the leaner cut of meat and has less fat | Pork shoulder is also a cheaper cut of meat |
What are the similarities between pork cushion and pork shoulder?
1. Both cuts are great options when making sausages because they have enough fat content to make them juicy and flavorful
Pork shoulder and pork cushion are the perfect meat options for sausages because they have enough fat content to make them juicy, flavorful, tender.
2. The cooking time for both cuts are about the same – around 8 hours on low heat in an oven or slow cooker
You can cook both pork shoulder and cushion to be tender in about 8 hours.
With an oven or slow cooker, set the temperature on low for around 6-8 hours depending on the thickness of your cuts.
3. Both cuts of meat are good sources of protein and contain high levels of iron and zinc
Pork cushions and shoulder are excellent sources of protein.
They contain qualities such as iron, zinc which help repair cells that produce blood in the body to develop healthy muscles and bones
Which one is better?
| Product Comparison | Grumpy Butcher Fully-Cooked Smoked Pork Belly (Pack of 3, each 1.5 lb)... | Pork Shoulder Butt Roast Boneless Step 1 |
| Product Image |  |  |
| Latest Price | Check Current Price | Check Current Price |
Pork cushion is the perfect cut for those who really want to indulge in a juicy and fatty pork meat.
It’s a great option for sandwiches or tacos as well!
For those looking to eat healthier with leaner cuts of pork, consider ordering a pork shoulder instead.
Though lower in fat than a pork cushion, the taste is similar and you won’t feel guilty after eating it!
Which do you prefer?