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Cured pork tenderloin
Cured pork tenderloin
from Wikipedia
Cured pork tenderloin
Spanish lomo
Main ingredientsPork

Cured pork tenderloin is found in various cuisines in Mediterranean Europe and South America. It is typically salted or brined then dry-cured or smoked.

In different countries

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Spain

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Spanish caña de lomo or lomo embuchado

In Spanish cuisine, lomo embuchado is a dry-cured meat made from pork tenderloin, sometimes called caña de lomo or just lomo. It is similar to cecina, but with pork instead of beef.

Italy

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In Italian cuisine, there are many variants of lonza stagionata. Capocollo is very similar, but made from the neck muscle rather than the tenderloin, and often stuffed into a casing. In the northeastern border region of Trieste and surroundings as well as coastal Slovenia and Istria in Croatia (influenced by Venetian culture) it is also known as ombolo.

Corsica

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In Corsican cuisine, lonzu is cured loin.

Cyprus

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Sliced lountza (left) along with chiromer, onions and olives

In Cypriot cuisine, lountza (Greek: λούντζα) is made of pork tenderloin, which is first brined and marinated in red wine, then dried and smoked.[1]

It may be sold immediately after smoking, or aged. As it ages, it becomes harder and more strongly flavored. It may be spiced with coriander.[1]

Lountza may be served cooked or uncooked with alcoholic drinks such as zivania or wine. Grilled lountza served with other Cypriot foods such as halloumi and kefalotyri cheese often appears in meze platters. Sandwiches made out of grilled lountza and halloumi are favorite fast food snacks in Cyprus.

Greece

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In the northern Cyclades islands of Greece (Mykonos, Syros, Andros, Tinos), louza is preserved pork loin.[2]

Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and Serbia

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In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and Serbia smoked, cured loins, tenderloins and shoulder blade are called pečenica (literally "that which is baked") or vješalica (literally "that which is hung"). They are commonly made of pork but beef varieties are also not uncommon. The terms (respectively) refer to the process of smoking over heat and being hung on hooks above the source of the smoke while they're left to cure. The cuts are universally prepared only during the winter and are considered winter food. The latter of two terms is more commonly used for the shoulder blade cut, whereas the tenderloin cut is sometimes also called slatka (sweet) pečenica.

Unlike Mediterranean-style cured meats like prosciutto, pancetta and buđola (capocolla) traditionally made in drier, littoral and near-littoral southern parts of these countries, smoke-cured loins are traditionally cured meats from the inner continental regions and harsh, freezing continental winters are a big part of curing specifics and flavor.

The cuts are first brined in solution of salt and garlic (locally salamura), to enhance flavor and help preservation, commonly together with continental-style bacon (slanina locally), lardon (also called slanina, sometimes white bacon or soap bacon) and ribs. Then they are cured by hanging them in freezing winter winds, over a smoldering lumber (smoke being essential part of the flavor) for typically up to two months, because the freezing continental temperatures and lack of insects in the winter help curing and preservation. The smolder is occasionally extinguished completely to expose the meat fully to the freezing wind.

The flavor is, as a consequence, much more intensely smoked and garlic tinged than is the case with Mediterranean-style cured meat and the cuts are typically drier and harder. They are typically served as cold cuts, as part of traditional meze, but are also used as flavoring for various cooked dishes.

Bulgaria

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In Bulgaria, the cured pork loin is known as "Filet Elena" (Филе Елена).

Etymology

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All of the names above come directly or indirectly from Latin lumbus "loin", apart from the Slavic terms from Balkans region which are derived from the actual method of preparation.

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Cured pork tenderloin is a lean, dry-cured product made from the tenderloin—a long, cylindrical muscle located along the backbone of the , prized for its tenderness and mild flavor. The process involves rubbing the trimmed tenderloin with salt (typically 2-3% of the 's weight) and seasonings such as , , , or regional spices, then refrigerating it for 7-10 days to allow the cure to penetrate evenly. After rinsing and optional coating with additional spices or wine, the is trussed and hung in a controlled environment—ideally 50-60°F (10-15°C) with 70-80% humidity—for 3-6 weeks or longer, until it loses 30-35% of its original weight, developing a firm texture and concentrated, savory . The result is a thinly sliceable , often served raw on boards, in sandwiches, or grated over dishes like or eggs, with a subtle saltiness and spice profile that highlights the pork's natural delicacy. Cured pork tenderloin shares techniques with similar dry-cured products from the , such as lonzino or lonza in —particularly from regions like and —and lomo embuchado or caña de lomo in Spanish traditions, though those names typically refer to the larger loin cut rather than the tenderloin. In some contexts, cured tenderloin is known as filetto curato in or solomillo embuchado in . These variations reflect local terroirs: Italian versions often incorporate herbs like or for an aromatic depth, while Spanish styles may emphasize smoked paprika or milder cures to complement Iberian breeds. The technique draws from ancient dry-curing methods dating back centuries in , where salting and air-drying preserved pork in pre-refrigeration eras. Culturally, cured pork tenderloin embodies the resourcefulness of traditions, transforming a premium cut into a versatile, long-lasting that underscores pork's role in festive meals and everyday antipasti. In , it holds significance in regional festivals and artisanal production. Modern home curing has popularized it globally, with adaptations using curing salts (like Prague Powder #2 for safety in longer dries) to prevent spoilage while maintaining authenticity. Its lean profile—contrasting fattier cures like —makes it a lighter option, appealing to contemporary palates focused on balanced .

Overview

Definition

Cured pork tenderloin is a dry-cured preparation made specifically from the , the , a lean cut located along the spine in the area of the . This muscle is preserved through salting followed by air-drying, without cooking, resulting in a firm yet tender product that can sometimes be lightly smoked depending on regional traditions. The is notably lean, containing approximately 2-5% fat, which contributes to its delicate texture and mild flavor after curing. Unlike broader cured loins derived from the entire muscle (such as lomo) or processed sausages, cured pork tenderloin maintains its original cylindrical shape and inherent tenderness due to the psoas muscle's minimal and low marbling. In , for example, it is known as lomo embuchado, a dusted with before encasing and curing.

Characteristics

Cured typically measures 20-40 cm in length and 5-8 cm in diameter, reflecting the natural dimensions of the pork tenderloin muscle after trimming and casing. The product develops a firm yet sliceable texture through significant loss during , achieving a target weight reduction of 30-40% from its initial state. Its characteristic reddish-pink color arises from the interaction of curing salts and nitrates with the meat's , resulting in a stable cured pigment that resists fading under proper storage. Due to the lean nature of the tenderloin cut, marbling is minimal, contributing to a uniform appearance with subtle fat streaks. The sensory profile of cured pork tenderloin features an intense salty-umami flavor, enhanced by the concentration of natural and salts during curing. A subtle sweetness emerges from the breakdown of the meat's inherent sugars, balancing the without overpowering it. Aromas often include notes of spices such as or , depending on regional , imparting a complex, savory bouquet. Despite the drying process, the product retains tenderness with a juicy , aided by the preservation of intramuscular moisture and minimal in the original cut. Nutritionally, a 100 g serving of cured pork tenderloin provides approximately 200-250 kcal, primarily from its high protein content of 30-35 g, supporting muscle repair and satiety. Fat content ranges from 6-15 g per 100 g, with a portion consisting of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly in breeds like Iberian pork. Sodium levels are elevated at 800-1200 mg due to the salting process, necessitating moderation in diets sensitive to salt intake. Cholesterol is present at 50-70 mg per 100 g, comparable to other pork products. The meat is a source of vitamins B12 and niacin, contributing to energy metabolism and red blood cell formation, with negligible carbohydrates.

History and etymology

Historical origins

The practice of curing , including cuts from the , dates to ancient Mediterranean civilizations, with the earliest documented methods appearing in Roman texts around the BCE, such as Cato the Elder's De Agricultura, which describes salting to preserve meat for long journeys and storage. By the Roman era, these techniques had advanced significantly, incorporating salt, spices, and air-drying to create durable provisions, particularly for military legions where salted served as essential rations. , in his Naturalis Historia (circa 77 CE), detailed methods for curing , such as using and linden bark to mitigate excessive saltiness in and , through layering in salt and subsequent hanging. These innovations ensured remained a staple in the Roman diet, with imported salted from regions like and Iberia supporting urban and military needs. During the medieval period (5th–15th centuries), cured spread across via expanding trade routes, evolving from Roman foundations into regional specialties adapted to local climates and resources. In Iberia, preservation techniques like salting and drying continued to develop, influencing local products. Byzantine texts, such as the Geoponica (), further refined these methods with and oil cures for lean , bridging ancient Roman practices to medieval and influencing variations. By the in (14th–16th centuries), regulations among butchers and charcutiers formalized curing practices, standardizing processes to meet growing urban demand. In the 19th and 20th centuries, industrialization transformed cured pork tenderloin production in , introducing controlled environments and mechanized salting to scale output while preserving artisanal flavors. This era saw the establishment of protected designations, such as the Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) for Guijuelo in , granted in 1986, which safeguards varieties like lomo ibérico by enforcing traditional methods and geographic origins. Post-World War II economic recovery accelerated these protections, ensuring quality amid . By the , global exports surged, with European cured loins reaching international markets through enhanced trade agreements and demand for premium .

Etymology

The primary names for cured pork tenderloin in derive from the Latin word lumbus, meaning "," which referred to the lower back or region of an animal. In Spanish, this evolved into "lomo," denoting the pork cut used for curing. Similarly, in Italian, it became "lombo," a term still applied to the cured loin product known as lonzino or lonza. These evolutions reflect the direct inheritance of Latin into and subsequent Romance dialects during the Roman Empire's expansion across the Mediterranean. Non-Romance variants show influences from trade and conquest. The Greek term "noumboulo" (or "nombolo"), used for the on , originates from Venetian "nombolo," a dialectal form meaning "" or metaphorically "a strand of " to describe the meat's shape, introduced during the Venetian rule over the from 1386 to 1797. In , "lonzu" is a direct borrowing from Italian "lonza," the Tuscan-influenced term for cured , reflecting the island's historical ties to before French annexation in 1768. In the , Slavic adaptations diverge from the Latin root, deriving instead from indigenous terms for the or roasting process. For instance, in Serbian and related languages, cured is often called "pečenica," from the verb "pečiti" meaning "to roast" or "bake," adapted to describe smoked or cured preparations rather than a direct anatomical borrowing. Modern has standardized around descriptive English terms like "cured pork tenderloin" for and exports, as mandated by EU (EU) No 1169/2011, which requires clear origin and composition labeling for processed meats to prevent consumer misleading, with no major terminological shifts since the early . This aligns with broader harmonization in directives, emphasizing the cut's lean nature from the pork's tenderloin.

Production

Curing process

The curing process for cured pork tenderloin begins with selecting a lean tenderloin, typically weighing 1-2 kg, which is then trimmed of excess fat and silver skin to ensure even cure penetration and a smooth texture. A dry cure mixture is prepared using equilibrium curing principles, where ingredients are calculated as percentages of the meat's green weight: approximately 2-3% non-iodized salt, 0.25% curing salt #2 (Prague powder #2, containing and nitrate for long-term curing), and spices such as or at 1-2% by weight. The cure is thoroughly massaged into the meat to distribute it evenly, after which the tenderloin is placed in a vacuum-sealed bag or wrapped and refrigerated at 0-4°C for 7-14 days, with daily turning to promote uniform absorption. Equilibrium curing allows for precise control, with initial weight loss of 5-10% monitored to indicate extraction and equilibrium without over-salting. Prague powder #2 is essential for bacterial control, as its nitrites inhibit pathogens like Clostridium botulinum, preventing in the anaerobic environment of the cure. An optional wet brine variant can be used for more even distribution, involving dissolving the cure in water (typically 5-10% salt solution) and submerging the meat for the same duration, though dry methods are preferred for whole-muscle cuts to enhance flavor concentration. Safety is paramount during curing, with temperature maintained at 0-4°C to suppress pathogen growth. Upon completion, the meat is rinsed to remove excess cure, patted dry, and prepared for subsequent drying and aging to develop final texture and flavor. Commercial production must adhere to regulations like USDA limits on nitrites (200 ppm ingoing) and EU standards for protected designations, such as no artificial nitrates in traditional Italian lonzino variants.

Drying and aging

Following the curing process, the is prepared for by stuffing it into natural casings, such as bovine intestines, or netting it to preserve shape and allow even air circulation during . Optionally, the surface may be coated with spices like or permitted to develop a protective mold layer to inhibit unwanted microbial growth. The prepared tenderloins are then hung in a controlled chamber at temperatures of 10-12°C and relative levels of 65-75% for 30-90 days (approximately 4-12 weeks), enabling controlled maturation and flavor enhancement through enzymatic activity. This environment promotes gradual , resulting in a total weight loss of 30-50%, which is closely monitored using scales to prevent or excessive . Key quality indicators during drying include the formation of a blooming pellicle on the surface, signifying initial dehydration and protection of the interior, while the internal temperature is maintained below 15°C to ensure microbial safety. Readiness is evaluated through physical firmness, absence of off-odors indicating spoilage, and a water activity below 0.90, typically achieved by 45-60 days for optimal texture and safety. In certain productions, an optional light smoking phase lasting 1-2 days at 20-25°C may be added post-initial drying to impart subtle flavors without fully cooking the product.

Regional variations

Spain

In Spain, lomo embuchado represents the quintessential , crafted from the lean of either Iberian or white breeds. The process begins with trimming the of external fat, followed by salting for 12 to 24 hours at low temperatures to draw out moisture and initiate preservation. It is then marinated in a blend of , smoked (pimentón de La Vera), and garlic, often with additions like or for subtle flavor enhancement, before being hand-stuffed into natural or casings measuring 50 to 60 mm in diameter. The curing continues with hanging the encased loins in controlled cellars or drying rooms, where they age for 2 to 6 months under specific conditions of 14–15°C and 75% humidity to develop a firm texture, pinkish-red exterior, and intense, smoky aroma. This traditional method is particularly prominent in regions like , where the aids natural maturation, ensuring the product's lean marbling and tender consistency without smoking in many artisanal variants. While not under a specific (PDO), the use of PDO-protected pimentón de La Vera underscores its authenticity and ties to regional heritage. Lomo embuchado holds significant cultural value in jamón-producing areas such as and Castilla y León, serving as a staple cured meat that embodies Spain's traditions. It is especially prominent during celebrations, where it features alongside other embutidos in family gatherings and festive platters, symbolizing abundance and shared heritage. Exports of Spanish products, including lomo embuchado, have seen steady growth, contributing to the sector's expansion from approximately €5 billion in pork exports in 2017 to over €5.8 billion by 2019.

Italy and Corsica

In , the cured known as lombo or lonzino is a traditional salume produced primarily in regions such as and . It is crafted from high-quality , which is rubbed with , , fennel seeds, , and other spices, often incorporating during the initial curing to enhance flavor and tenderness. The meat undergoes a dry-curing process for about a week, followed by air-drying and aging in cool, ventilated environments for 2 to 4 months, resulting in a lean, rosy product with a delicate, aromatic profile. Production remains largely artisanal, emphasizing local pig breeds and natural methods without widespread (DOP) status specific to lonzino, though it aligns with broader Tuscan traditions. On the island of , lonzu represents a closely related variant, made from the tenderloin of the native "porcu nustrale" , which is raised in mountainous pastures and fed a diet enriched with or acorns in the final weeks. The process begins with salting and , followed by optional light smoking over chestnut wood to impart subtle nutty notes, before and aging in natural mountain huts for up to 6 months. This extended maturation develops a firm yet supple texture with sweet, fresh aromas, and lonzu has held (PDO) status since , ensuring adherence to traditional pastoral practices and local sourcing. Both Italian lonzino and Corsican lonzu share Mediterranean , prioritizing minimal intervention through salting, drying, and regional to preserve the meat's purity. These methods reflect a heritage of small-scale, family-based production tied to rural and lifestyles, where the focus on lean cuts and subtle seasonings distinguishes them from more spiced or intensely aged variants elsewhere.

Cyprus and Greece

In and , cured pork tenderloin reflects traditions shaped by Venetian and Ottoman influences, blending smoking techniques with local spices and wines for preservation in island climates. These varieties emphasize aromatic smoking and grilling, distinguishing them from herb-dominated air-dried products elsewhere. Production remains largely artisanal, tied to family methods passed down through generations. The Cypriot variant, known as lountza, is a smoked produced primarily in the , where cool, high-altitude conditions aid curing. It begins with soaked in and marinated in , then rubbed with salt and spices such as and before . The result is a firm, flavorful often grilled after curing and served in platters or sandwiches alongside cheese. Lountza's preparation is small-scale and family-based, with producers in villages like Agros and Pitsilia maintaining traditional smokehouses. Annual Zivania Festivals in rural areas such as Alona and Pelendri showcase lountza alongside other local foods, highlighting its cultural role in community gatherings. In , particularly on the island of , noumboulo (also spelled nouboulo) represents a similar cured , introduced during Venetian rule from the 15th to 18th centuries. The process involves marinating whole in with salt, , coriander, fennel seeds, and thyme, followed by encasing in natural pork casings and over aromatic woods and herbs like myrtle, sage, laurel, and oregano. It matures for several weeks to months, developing a smoky, peppery profile suitable for slicing thin and eating raw or grilled. Family producers continue this Venetian legacy on a small scale, adapting drying to Corfu's mild climate.

Balkans and Bulgaria

In the , particularly in regions like Bosnia and , cured pork tenderloin is known as pečenica, a traditional product prepared through salting or the , followed by cold-smoking and air-drying. The process typically involves minimal seasonings such as salt, pepper, and , with some variations incorporating bay leaves for added aroma during curing. After initial salting, the meat undergoes dry-aging for 2 to 4 months in cool, airy conditions, often leveraging natural winds like the Bora in to facilitate drying while imparting a mild smoky flavor if smoking is applied. Production remains largely rural and seasonal, concentrated in winter months to align with traditional slaughtering practices that preserve meat for the colder season. In , the counterpart is File Elena, a dry-cured originating from the town of Elena, where high-quality lean is rubbed with salt and a blend of spices including savory and before air-drying. The curing emphasizes natural seasonings typical of Bulgarian , resulting in a firm, flavorful product that develops its character through slow drying in ventilated spaces like attics to control humidity and temperature. This method reflects longstanding preservation techniques influenced by regional climates and heritage. Unlike denser sausages like lukanka, File Elena retains the tenderloin's shape and is prized for its subtle spice profile. Across the and , these cured tenderloins hold cultural significance, often produced in small quantities during the Advent period leading to Orthodox , when families engage in ritual pig slaughters to prepare preserved meats for feasts and winter storage. These artisanal products are typically made on a small scale, underscoring their status as niche, homemade specialties rather than industrial outputs. Names like pečenica share Latin roots with other European cured meats, hinting at broader historical exchanges in preservation methods.

Culinary uses

Traditional preparations

Cured pork tenderloin is traditionally sliced very thinly, typically 1-2 mm thick, to highlight its tender texture and subtle flavors when served raw on boards or platters. In , lomo embuchado is cut into delicate slices and presented as , often layered on crusty bread for a simple yet elegant starter. Similarly, in and , lountza appears in selections, arranged alongside olives and fresh vegetables to complement its smoky notes. These preparations pair the meat with complementary regional accompaniments to enhance its profile, with servings generally portioned at 50-100 grams per person for balanced tasting. In , it is frequently matched with aged cheese, creating a contrast of creamy and firm textures ideal for shared plates. In the , Bulgarian file Elena accompanies robust red wines during social meals. The curing process's preservative qualities enable year-round availability of seasonal pork, making it a staple in festive contexts across its origins. In , lonzu features prominently in holiday meals and family gatherings, such as feasts, where it is sliced and shared to celebrate communal traditions. This role underscores its cultural significance in Mediterranean diets, tying into the distinct flavors of varieties like the paprika-infused lomo embuchado or herb-marinated lountza.

Modern applications

In contemporary , cured pork tenderloin, often known as lomo embuchado, has found its way into fusion dishes that blend traditional curing techniques with diverse culinary influences. For instance, thin slices of lomo are incorporated into Asian-inspired salads, paired with ingredients like , fresh herbs, and for a contrast of smoky, savory flavors against bright acidity. In American contexts, it serves as a staple on modern boards, arranged with artisanal cheeses, nuts, and fruits to create shareable platters that highlight its lean texture and subtle notes. This versatility stems from advancements in , where vacuum-sealing extends the of sliced lomo to up to six months when refrigerated, enabling broader international distribution and experimentation in home and professional kitchens. Commercial production of cured pork tenderloin has shifted toward industrialized methods, utilizing climate-controlled chambers to regulate humidity, temperature, and airflow during curing and aging, ensuring consistent quality and at scale. Spanish brand Embutidos Fermín, a leader in Iberian products, employs these techniques to produce premium lomo from acorn-fed pigs, with a significant portion of output exported to markets like the , where it was the first authorized exporter of such items. Complementing this, home-curing kits have surged in popularity since the early , driven by the rise of trends; tools like UMAi Dry bags simplify the process by providing vacuum environments and seasoning guides, allowing enthusiasts to replicate traditional lomo in domestic settings. Innovations in cured pork tenderloin focus on -oriented adaptations, such as low-sodium formulations achieved through partial substitution of NaCl with or magnesium salts, alongside technologies like high-pressure to maintain flavor and texture while reducing salt content by up to 50% for markets. These products are increasingly featured in pairings with craft beers—pale ales complement the loin's spice with citrusy , enhancing experiences—and as ready-to-eat snacks in pre-sliced, vacuum-packed formats for on-the-go consumption. The European sector, including cured items, has experienced steady growth, with industry revenue rising at a (CAGR) of 1.1% from 2020 to 2025, reaching approximately €376.3 billion, fueled by demand for premium and convenient protein options.

References

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