Is Sirloin Beef or Pork? A Complete Guide

Sirloin steak is one of the most popular cuts of meat, but there’s often confusion about what exactly it is Is sirloin beef or pork? Where does it come from on the animal? How do you cook it? This complete guide will clear up all the questions and help you become a sirloin expert.

What is Sirloin?

The term “sirloin” refers to a cut of meat from the mid-back region of cattle and pigs

On a cow, sirloin is located between the rib primal and the round primal, right above the flank and behind the short loin. This area contains several subprimal cuts like the top sirloin, bottom sirloin, and tri-tip.

On a pig, sirloin comes from the upper hip region near the loin primal. Pork sirloin contains parts of the tenderloin and hip bone.

Is Sirloin Beef or Pork?

Sirloin can come from both beef and pork, but there are some differences:

• Beef sirloin is cut from the back while pork sirloin comes from the upper hip.

• Beef sirloin is more often used for grilling steaks while pork sirloin is better for roasts and chops.

• Beef sirloin tends to be more tender while pork sirloin is leaner

• Top sirloin steak is the most prized cut from beef, while pork sirloin chops are valued for their leanness.

So while both beef and pork produce a cut called “sirloin”, the exact location, texture, and uses vary between the two.

Regional Differences

There are also regional differences in sirloin terminology:

• In the U.S., sirloin refers to the back behind the short loin.

• In the U.K., Australia, and South Africa, sirloin refers to the short loin instead.

• Names like “rump” and “sirloin tip” are used for the same general area.

The main takeaway is that sirloin names are not totally standardized globally. Check with local butchers to understand the naming conventions in your area.

How to Cook Sirloin

Cooking methods for sirloin depend on whether it’s beef or pork:

For Beef Sirloin:

• Grilling – The most popular method. Cook over high heat for 3-5 minutes per side.

• Broiling – Cook 5-6 minutes per side under the broiler.

• Pan Searing – Cook 1-2 minutes per side in a very hot skillet to develop a nice crust.

• Roasting – Roast at 350°F until it reaches the desired doneness, around 15-25 minutes.

For Pork Sirloin:

• Roasting – The preferred method. Roast at 350°F until 145°F internal temperature.

• Grilling – Good for boneless chops. Grill 4-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat.

• Pan Searing – Sear cutlets or chops 4-5 minutes per side in a hot skillet.

• Braising – Braise for 1-2 hours to make extra tender.

Always use a meat thermometer and avoid overcooking. Pork should reach 145°F, beef 125-135°F for medium rare.

5 Delicious Sirloin Recipes

Here are 5 tasty recipes to try at home:

1. Grilled Sirloin Steak with Chimichurri – Flavorful steak with a bright, herby chimichurri sauce.

2. Slow Roasted Pork Sirloin with Apples – Fall-apart tender roast pork with sweet apples.

3. Thai Beef Salad with Sirloin – Grilled sirloin tops this fresh Thai salad.

4. Sirloin Stir Fry with Vegetables – Quick and healthy stir fry with sirloin, veggies and noodles.

5. Sirloin Pork Chops with Peach Salsa – Juicy pan-seared chops served with a peach jalapeño salsa.

Nutrition Facts

Both beef and pork sirloin offer useful nutritional benefits:

• Excellent source of protein – Beef has ~22g per 3oz, pork has ~21g.

• Lower in saturated fat than fattier cuts.

• Rich in B12, selenium, zinc and iron.

• Very low carb making it ideal for low carb/keto diets.

Pork sirloin tends to be a bit lower in total fat and calories than beef. Both make a healthy and lean protein choice.

Is Sirloin Expensive?

Compared to premium cuts like ribeye and tenderloin, sirloin is very affordable:

• Beef sirloin costs $7-12 per pound

• Pork sirloin costs $3-6 per pound

Of course prices vary by quality, region, and whether it’s organic/grass-fed. But sirloin remains a budget-friendly cut of meat.

Tips for Cooking Sirloin

Follow these tips when prepping and cooking sirloin:

• Choose USDA Choice grade beef for best flavor/tenderness

• Look for pork sirloin with some marbling for added moistness

• Allow steaks to come to room temperature before cooking

• Use a meat thermometer and don’t overcook

• Let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing for juicier meat

• Top roasts with compound butter or pan sauces

• Marinate before cooking to boost flavor and juiciness

Is Sirloin Beef or Pork?

While sirloin refers to cuts from both beef and pork, there are key differences in where they come from, how they cook best, and characteristics.

Beef sirloin makes great steaks while pork sirloin is better for roasting/braising. No matter the source, sirloin provides big, meaty flavor at an affordable price point. A tasty and versatile budget cut that every home cook should know how to use.