secreto steak
Grilled Iberian Secreto
Grilled Iberian Secreto

Secreto Ibérico or Iberian Secret, isn't some strange covert recipe from the Iberian peninsula. It is a specific part of the Iberian pig that, when grilled, results in one of the tastiest and juiciest meats around. 

Why is it called "secreto" and what is it?

The pork secreto is a cut located in the armpit of the animal, specifically between the shoulder and the belly. In one animal, only pieces weighing about 150 to 200 grams (5-7 oz.) can be extracted, so this type of cut is highly coveted. 

The secreto is a relatively hidden cut, as it can only be seen if the muscle is cut horizontally. Legend has that these delicious pieces were kept by butchers for their personal consumption, due to their extraordinary qualities. Hence the name, Iberian secret. 

Can the recipe be made with regular pork?

Yes, it is possible to make the recipe with regular pork you find at the grocery store. However, you must take into account that the flavor will be different. Iberian pork is a much higher quality meat due to how the animals are fed and raised. While industrial pigs are raised to maximize production, Iberian pigs are raised with quality in mind. 

Ibérico pigs have a higher fat infiltration in their muscles, giving their meat a juicy and intense flavor. When cooked properly, cuts like secreto practically melt in your mouth. 

In addition, the fat in Ibérico is said to help stabilize cholesterol levels, much like the fat in extra-virgin olive oil. Not only will you get to eat something delicious when choose Ibérico, you'll also choose something better for your body. 

How to Prepare Grilled Iberian Secret

This recipe is insanely simple and requires nothing more than pork, salt, and pepper. 

Ingredients

Preparation

  • With a very sharp knife, proceed to cut each piece of secret. The meat should be at room temperature and should be cut obliquely.
  • Prepare the embers of the barbecue, with the grill about 15 centimeters from the coals. Ensure the flame is almost gone, and the heat is evenly distributed throughout the grill.
  • Place the pieces of the secret when the grill is already hot. Each side will require about 10 minutes to sear properly. When one side is done, turn the piece over to finish cooking.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.

How to Prepare Iberian Secret in Beer Sauce

Secreto needs nothing more than a little salt and pepper. But sometimes it's fun to get creative and try out new flavors, like a savory lager beer sauce with crispy fries. 

Ingredients

  • 4 Campo Grande Ibérico Secreto filets 
  • 4 cloves garlic, diced 
  • 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into thin sticks 
  • 1 leek, chopped 
  • 3/4 cup dark or lager beer
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)

Preparation

  1. Heat olive oil over medium-low heat and add in the garlic.
  2. Add the leak and stir to combine.
  3. Once the leek and garlic begin to brown, add the beer and let simmer for a bit. Season with salt and pepper and set aside. 
  4. Heat up the grill and place the Secreto filets on the grill.
  5. Remove the Secreto and season with salt and pepper and set aside. 
  6. While the meat is cooking, fry the potatoes until crispy and season with salt. 
  7. Serve Secreto and fries on a plate and spoon the beer sauce on top. ¡Buen provecho!

Tips for an Excellent Iberian Secreto 

Here we like salt the secreto after grilling instead of before. Adding salt too early on in the cooking process can cause the meat to release too many of its juices and ultimately dry it out. Instead, finish with salt and lock in the juice. 

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 Coppa with Mashed Potatoes
Red Wine Braised Ibérico Pork 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
Ibérico Pork Box
Regular price $169.00

Ibérico Pork Box

BBQ Grill Master Box
Regular price $149.00

BBQ Grill Master 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