Both pork tenderloin and pork chops are delicious and nutritious cuts of pork that have their own unique qualities. Choosing between the two depends largely on personal preference as well as the recipe you plan to make. Here is an in-depth comparison of pork tenderloin vs pork chops to help you decide which is best for your needs.
Nutrition
Nutritionally, pork tenderloin and pork chops are quite similar. They are both lean cuts of meat that are relatively low in fat and calories. Here is a nutritional comparison of 3 ounces of cooked pork tenderloin and pork chop:
| Nutrient | Pork Tenderloin | Pork Chop |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 122 | 139 |
| Fat | 2.5g | 4.5g |
| Protein | 22g | 22g |
| Iron | 0.9mg | 0.7mg |
As you can see, pork tenderloin is just slightly lower in calories and fat compared to pork chops. However, the differences are small. Both are excellent sources of protein and nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, selenium, and phosphorus.
Flavor
When it comes to flavor, pork chops and pork tenderloin both have a mild, slightly sweet pork taste. However, there are some subtle differences:
- Pork tenderloin is very tender and fine-grained. It has a delicate, subtle flavor.
- Pork chops are moderately tender and can have more fat marbling for flavor. The meaty chop has a bit more rich pork flavor.
So pork chops tend to be a bit more robust and flavorful due to their fat content. Pork tenderloin is extremely tender but has a more subtle, understated flavor profile.
Texture
The texture of these two cuts also differs:
- Pork tenderloin is extremely tender, lean and fine-grained. When cooked properly, it is melt-in-your mouth tender.
- Pork chops have a bit more chew and dense meaty texture. They can be juicy yet also slightly fibrous.
Pork tenderloins are prized for their tenderness and lack of toughness. Their tender texture makes them ideal for quick cooking methods like grilling or sautéing. Pork chops benefit more from slower moist cooking methods to break down connective tissues.
Cooking Methods
The optimal cooking methods for pork tenderloin and chops differ:
- Pork tenderloin – grill, pan sear, roast, sauté, bake
- Pork chops – pan fry, braise, grill, bake, broil
Pork tenderloins are so lean and tender that dry heat, quick cooking methods work best. Wet methods like braising are not necessary. Pork chops, on the other hand, can benefit from braising or moist slow roasting to reach peak tenderness.
Preparation
Pork tenderloin requires very little preparation beyond seasoning. Just trim off any excess fat or silver skin. Pork chops may need to be trimmed of fat and connective tissue. Chops can also be pounded to a more even thickness which aids in even cooking.
Cost
Pork tenderloins are generally more expensive per pound than pork chops. This is because the tenderloin is an intact muscle while chops are cross-sections of meat carved from larger muscles. Pork tenderloins are prized for their tenderness and delicate flavor.
Here are some average prices for each cut:
- Pork tenderloin – $9 per pound
- Pork chops – $7 per pound
Of course, prices can vary based on the source, quality, and other factors.
Appearance
In terms of appearance, pork tenderloins and chops look quite distinct:
- Pork tenderloin is an elongated, tapered whole muscle that is thick in the middle and tapers at both ends. It looks like a small tenderloin of beef.
- Pork chops are cross-sections of meat cut from the loin or shoulder into individual servings. They are flat pieces of meat with a round bone on one side.
Uses
Pork tenderloin and chops are both extremely versatile cuts that work well in all types of recipes including:
- Sautés
- Stir fries
- Kabobs
- Roasts
- Chops
- Cutlets
Due to its uniform shape, pork tenderloin is ideal for roasting whole or slicing into medallions. Pork chops can be cooked as single servings. Both meats pair well with bold flavors like spice rubs, marinades, and sauces.
Recipes
Both pork tenderloin and chops shine in recipes like:
Pork Tenderloin
- Maple glazed pork tenderloin
- Pork medallions with mushroom sauce
- Balsamic roasted pork tenderloin
- Apple stuffed pork tenderloin
Pork Chops
- Skillet pork chops with apples
- Baked honey garlic pork chops
- Smothered pork chops
- Crispy breaded pork chops
Conclusion
In the battle of pork tenderloin vs pork chops, it’s hard to declare one cut truly better than the other. Each has their own advantages and best uses:
- Pork Tenderloin – Extremely tender, lean and delicate in flavor. Best for roasting, quick sautés, and slicing into medallions.
- Pork Chops – More robust pork flavor, meatier texture with some chew. Great for pan frying, braises, and chop recipes.
Nutritionally, they are pretty equal as well. Those looking for a tender, quick cooking cut may favor pork tenderloin. Pork chop fans will love their rich, meaty chops. Try each and decide which cut best suits your recipe!