A Hidden Gem Cut
If you enjoy rich, old-fashioned pork flavor, this one’s worth trying. Picnic shoulder steak is a rustic cut that shines with gentle, low-and-slow cooking — and it’s one of the best values for big flavor. Sear it, then finish covered (braised or slow-cooked) until tender for a truly satisfying meal.
The picnic shoulder steak from Prairie Farmstead is cut from the lower shoulder and offers a deeper, more traditional pork flavor than leaner cuts.
This is a rustic, old-school cut that rewards slower cooking with rich, satisfying results.
Best thought of as a slow-cooked pork steak, this cut is ideal for cooks who enjoy braising, gentle grilling, or simmering until tender.
It’s not meant to cook like a chop — it’s meant to develop flavor over time.
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Cut: Lower shoulder (picnic shoulder steak)
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Texture: Hearty with a traditional, rustic bite
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Flavor: Deep, pork-forward, and savory
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Best for: braising, covered grilling, or slow simmering
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Great option when: you want bold flavor over quick cooking
- Regeneratively raised, pasture-raised pork
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Deeper flavor: Comes from a harder-working muscle with more character.
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Traditional cut: A favorite in classic, slow-cooked pork dishes.
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Value-forward: Big flavor without the price of premium cuts.
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Rewarding: Gets better with time and gentle heat.
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Heritage breed pigs: Berkshire, Red Wattle, and Tamworth
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Pasture-raised: pigs live outdoors with room to roam
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Feed: non-GMO, corn-free, and soy-free
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Regeneratively raised: focused on soil health and animal welfare
For best results, cook this steak slowly and gently.
Sear first for color, then cover and braise with broth, onions, and spices until tender — or grill over indirect heat until fully cooked and juicy.
This cut shines in comfort-style meals and pairs well with roasted vegetables, beans, greens, or mashed potatoes.
Prairie Farmstead is operated by Chuck Trowbridge, who raises heritage breed pigs on pasture using regenerative practices that prioritize soil health, animal welfare, and long-term sustainability.
Cuts like this reflect that philosophy — honoring the whole animal and providing flavorful pork meant for slow, nourishing meals.