Pork sirloin roast is a cut of meat from the pig. It comes from the sirloin section, which is located between the loin and leg areas. Pork sirloin roast may also be known by a few other names, including:
- Pork loin sirloin roast
- Pork loin end roast
- Boston butt roast
The different names for pork sirloin roast can cause confusion for consumers when shopping for or preparing this cut of pork. By understanding the various names and what they refer to, you can more easily find and cook this versatile roast.
Anatomy of a Pig
To understand the different names for pork sirloin roast, it helps to first look at the anatomy of a pig. A pig is comprised of four main primal cuts:
- Shoulder
- Loin
- Belly
- Leg
The loin section runs from the shoulder along the back of the animal. The sirloin is located between the loin primal and the rear leg. It contains portions of both the loin and leg muscles.
This anatomical location is why pork sirloin roast may also be called “pork loin sirloin roast.” It comes from the area where the loin transitions into the sirloin.
Pork Loin Sirloin Roast
Pork loin sirloin roast includes a portion of the loin muscle as well as the upper sirloin. It is sometimes labeled as just “pork sirloin roast.” However, the more specific name helps differentiate it from other sirloin roasts like the rear leg sirloin roast.
A pork loin sirloin roast is a moderately tender cut of meat. It has a good amount of fat marbling which keeps it juicy when cooked. The combination of loin and sirloin meat gives it a robust pork flavor.
This roast can be prepared many ways, including roasting, grilling, broiling, braising, and smoking. It is excellent for dishes like tacos, fajitas, sandwiches, or slicing for a dinner entree.
Pork Loin End Roast
The pork loin end roast comes from the rear portion of the loin primal. It contains the last few vertebrae and ribs approaching the sirloin area.
Some butchers and grocery stores may label a pork loin end roast simply as a “pork sirloin roast.” But the end roast has a slightly different composition compared to a sirloin roast from the loin sirloin area.
A pork loin end roast contains a lot of connective tissue and collagen. This requires moist cooking methods like braising or cooking in a slow cooker. When cooked properly though, it becomes incredibly tender and juicy.
The pork loin end roast is often sold with a section of backbone attached. This helps flavor the meat but needs to be removed before carving and eating.
Boston Butt Roast
Boston butt roast comes from the upper portion of the front shoulder, also called the Boston butt or Boston shoulder. This is not actually part of the rear sirloin area. However, it is sometimes mislabeled in stores as a pork sirloin roast.
A Boston butt roast contains parts of the shoulder blade bone as well as upper arm bone. It has a good mix of dark and light meat due to the shoulder muscles.
This roast has a lot of connective tissue, which breaks down during cooking to become very moist and tender. It is often used for pulled pork, carnitas, or other shredded/chopped pork dishes.
Comparing the Roasts
| Roast Name | Cut of Meat | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Pork Loin Sirloin Roast | From loin sirloin area | Moderately tender, juicy, good for roasting or grilling |
| Pork Loin End Roast | Rear portion of loin primal | Contains backbone, requires moist cooking, very tender |
| Boston Butt Roast | Front shoulder/arm | Contains shoulder bones, use for pulled pork dishes |
This table summarizes the key differences between the roasts. The loin sirloin is more tender and suited for drier cooking methods. The end roast and Boston butt contain more collagen and are best braised or cooked low and slow.
Cooking Methods
Here are some of the most common cooking methods for the different pork sirloin roasts:
Pork Loin Sirloin Roast
- Roasting – Season and cook uncovered in the oven at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Grilling – Bring to room temperature. Grill over medium heat for 12-15 minutes per pound until it reaches 145°F.
- Broiling – Place 4-6 inches under broiler. Broil for 15-20 minutes total, flipping halfway through.
Pork Loin End Roast
- Braising – Brown all over then cook covered in a small amount of liquid at 300°F for 2-3 hours until fall-apart tender.
- Slow cooker – Place in a slow cooker with broth or barbecue sauce. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Boston Butt Roast
- Roasting – Cook fatty side up at 300°F in a roasting pan until internal temperature reaches 200°F.
- Smoking – Smoke at 225-250°F for 8-12 hours until extremely tender.
- Slow cooker – Place in a slow cooker with sauce or seasonings. Cook for 10-12 hours on low.
For all roasts, allow the meat to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Roasts like the Boston butt that are cooked to higher temperatures are ideal for shredding.
Popular Recipes
Here are some recipe ideas that work well with the different pork sirloin roasts:
Pork Loin Sirloin Roast Recipes
- Apple Cider Glazed Pork Loin
- Pork Loin with Roasted Potatoes and Apples
- Grilled Pork Loin Tacos
Pork Loin End Roast Recipes
- Slow Cooker Pork Loin End Roast
- Braised Pork Loin End Roast with Vegetables
- Wine Braised Pork Loin End Roast
Boston Butt Roast Recipes
- Pulled Pork Barbecue
- Chile Verde with Pork Butt
- Cuban Style Mojo Pork Butt
The pork loin sirloin roast works well for roasting, grilling, and moderate braising recipes. The end roast and Boston butt do best with long, moist cooking methods and make excellent pulled pork.
Conclusion
While the names can be confusing, the main pork sirloin roasts include the loin sirloin roast, loin end roast, and Boston butt roast. Understanding where each roast comes from and its characteristics helps choose the right cooking method. A pork sirloin roast provides a versatile cut that can be prepared in endless delicious ways.