How to Cook Ibérico Secreto
How to Cook Ibérico Secreto

The Ibérico Secreto is one of the most popular and delicious cuts of Iberian pork in the world. Other than its remarkable flavor, the best thing about Secreto is that it's super easy prepare! You won't need much time, skill, or seasoning to get a restaurant-worthy dish that will wow your friends and family.

Learn more about how to cook Ibérico Secreto and the secrets of this mouthwatering cut. 

What is Ibérico Secreto? 

Practically unknown until a decade ago, Secreto has gained particular prominence in recent years and is now a crowd favorite in Spain. 

Secreto is now somewhat of an exclusive cut because only two can be extracted from each Iberian pig. Hidden amongst layers of fat and muscle, the Secreto (which means "secret in Spanish) was only eaten by Spanish butchers who would save this secret cut for themselves. Now the word is out and people are crazy for this ultra-soft and juicy steak with buttery flavors and textures. Secreto has the perfect balance between nutty intramuscular fat and lean meat, which lends to an incredible consistency. It practically melts in your mouth. 

How to Cook Ibérico Secreto 

Read up on our expert tips for cooking Ibérico Secreto: 

Bring the Meat Up to Room Temperature

All cuts of meat need to be at room temperature before cooking. It is essential that you remove the pork from the refrigerator a couple of hours before cooking and also take it out of its packaging. Why? When every part of the pork is at the exact same temperature, it will cook evenly and maintain its juiciness.  

Season Lightly 

Thanks to the big flavors of Ibérico, you won't need many ingredients or elaborate seasonings and sauces to enjoy Secreto—it already has everything it needs to shine on its own. A sprinkling of salt will do the trick. The simpler the preparation the better. 

Cook Over High Heat and Without Oil

The Iberian Secreto releases some of its intramuscular fat as it cooks, meaning you won't have to grease the pan. Instead, heat up a sauté pan or grill over high heat and cook the Secreto as such. 

Cook Quickly

When cooked over high heat, Secreto only needs a few minutes on each side to reach the ideal internal temperature of 145ºF. You want it browned and crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. 

Wait to Add Salt

This cut of Iberico needs only a pinch of coarse salt, but it's important to add it at the right moment. If you salt while it's cooking, the salt may absorb the moisture from the meat, causing the Secreto to lose some its juices. Instead, sprinkle a little of flaky finishing salt on the cut after you remove it from the heat.  

Cut Against the Grain 

Look for the muscle fibers in the meat and cut perpendicularly across them, or against the grain. This helps the meat retain its juiciness. 
TOP RECIPES
Grilled 4-Rib Rack with Thyme Aioli & Asparagus
Grilled 4-Rib Rack with Thyme Aioli & Asparagus
The Wolf Smashburger, CG Style
The Wolf Smashburger, CG Style
Puff Pastry Pizza With Sliced Cured Coppa, Apple & Burrata
Puff Pastry Pizza With Sliced Cured Coppa, Apple & Burrata
Red Wine Braised Ibérico Pork Coller "Coppa" with Mashed Potatoes
Red Wine Braised Ibérico Pork Coller "Coppa" with Mashed Potatoes
Huevos Rotos with Ibérico Secreto Steak
Huevos Rotos with Ibérico Secreto Steak

Drop a Comment

All comments are moderated before being published

Shop Collection

Build A Custom Box
Regular price From $150
Ground Ibérico-Wagyu Bulk Pack
Regular price $109.00
Ibérico Pork Box
Regular price $169.00

Ibérico Pork Box

Related posts

quince jelly
quince jelly
Quince with Venison

Quince with Venison

"This impressive dish is all about sweet and savory, and using quince fruits, called \"membrillo\" in Spanish, to add ca..."

Iberian cuts
Iberian cuts
Why Ibérico Cuts Vary in Weight

Why Ibérico Cuts Vary in Weight

articles
articles
Braised Oxtail

Braised Oxtail

"Tracing back the history of Spain's best dishes is a way to keep the recipes alive. Oxtail was found in De Re Coquina..."

Sign up to save 20% on your first order.

We’ll send you recipes, product guides, and exclusive offers especially for you.

RECIPES BY FEATURED CUTS

Subscribe for recipes, culinary inspo, and first dibs on new products.

secure-method