A 2022 Update on Kurobuta Pork: Origin, Price, and More

Are you planning for your next barbeque party? Perhaps you'd like to try adding a twist to your menu with Kurobuta pork. In case you don't know, Kurobuta is famous in the meat world as the "wagyu" of the pork family. Its unique flavor and texture make this piece of tender, juicy meat stand out from the rest. The marbling of fat in Kurobuta pork is denser than in other pork types, giving the meat a richer flavor and a softer, more delicate texture. 

Where Is Kurobuta Pork Originated?

Kurobuta pork has a long and interesting history. Berkshire pigs and Japanese wild boars were bred to create it for the first time in the early 1900s. The result was a uniquely flavored and textured pork quickly becoming a favorite among Japanese people. In the 1980s, Kurobuta pork began to gain popularity in the United States, and it has been gaining in popularity ever since.

Many of us have heard of Wagyu beef, which also comes from Japan. Kurobuta is the Japanese word that means "black pig." Kurobuta is the Wagyu of the pig industry, after all. In addition, every Berkshire pig farmed in Japan is reared in or around the Kagoshima prefecture.

These pigs are raised in low-stress environments and allowed to roam and forage for food. This results in Kurobuta pork marbled with delicate fat, giving it a unique flavor and texture unlike any other pork in the world. 

What Is the Price of Kurobuta Pork?

The price of Kurobuta pork can vary depending on the cut of meat and the location where it is purchased. However, on average, Kurobuta pork is more expensive than other types of pork. For example, a whole Kurobuta ham can cost anywhere from $200 to $400, while a pork loin can range from $50 to $100.

How Kurobuta Pork Compares to Regular Pork

Aside from the price, the main difference between Kurobuta pork and regular pork is the flavor. Kurobuta pork is more tender and juicy, with a richer flavor than regular pork. In addition, traditional pork can sometimes have a stronger odor than Kurobuta pork, especially when you heat them on the grill. 

Is Kurobuta Pork the Same as Berkshire?

Although Kurobuta pork and Berkshire pork come from related pig breeds, they are not the same. In fact, Berkshire pork is a breed of pig known for its high-quality meat. Meanwhile, Kurobuta pork is a specific variety of Berkshire pork known for its especially tender and juicy meat.

Aside from that, Berkshire pigs are larger than Kurobuta pigs and have a higher fat content. Kurobuta pigs are bred to have a lower fat content, which makes their meat more tender and juicy.

How to Prepare Kurobuta Pork

There are many ways you can prepare Kurobuta pork for your barbeque party. For example, you can make Kurobuta pork chops by seasoning them with salt and pepper, then grilling them on your teppanyaki grill for about four minutes per side.

Another way is to prepare Kurobuta pork ribs by marinating them in your favorite sauce for about an hour. Then, grill them for about 4 minutes per side.

Final Thoughts

Kurobuta pork is a high-quality, premium meat known for its flavor and tenderness. It is a well-liked option for customers and chefs alike, and its price has continued to rise in recent years. Despite the high price tag, Kurobuta pork is a popular choice for special occasions and is considered a delicacy.

If you’re adding Kurobuta pork to your barbecue menu, you can trust Backyard Hibachi for your grilling needs within the USA. We provide high-quality and portable teppanyaki grills that you can use for grilling your Kurobuta pork. Buy from us today!