Location
Your location determines which local communities, pages, places and events you see.
Display language
The language used for menus, buttons and interface text.
Secreto ibérico is the hidden gem of the Iberian pig - a cut found beneath the shoulder blade, unknown to most outsiders but prized by Spanish grill masters for its extraordinary intramuscular fat marbling that makes it cook like the most expensive wagyu beef. Taken from pigs that roam the dehesa cork oak forests of Extremadura and Andalusia, feeding on acorns in the final months before slaughter, the secreto carries a characteristic nutty sweetness in its fat that is unique to the Iberian breed. It needs only the highest possible heat - 3-4 minutes per side on the hottest grill or cast iron pan - Maldon sea salt, and lemon juice at the end. Overcooking is the only crime: it must be served pink and juicy inside, never grey and dry.
Prep
10 min
Cook
10 min
Total
20 min
Servings
4 srv
Difficulty
Easy
Calories
385 kcal
For 4 serving(s)
Per serving
Remove the secreto ibérico from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
Pat the meat completely dry with paper towels - any moisture will prevent proper searing.
Heat a cast iron griddle or heavy frying pan over the highest possible heat until it begins to smoke.
Rub the secreto lightly with olive oil and place on the screaming hot surface - do not move it.
Sear for 3-4 minutes until a deep, dark crust forms; flip once and sear the other side for 3 minutes.
The interior should remain pink and juicy - press with a finger to check; it should feel slightly springy.
Rest for 3-4 minutes on a warm plate, then slice against the grain, finish with Maldon sea salt flakes and a squeeze of lemon, and serve immediately.
Sign in to rate this recipe.