Kurobuta vs Berkshire Pork: What’s the Difference?
Snake River Farms is renowned for American Wagyu beef. But some special meals call for ham, either as a tradition or for a change of pace.
Our 100% Kurobuta pork hams elevate any meal with incredibly easy preparation and mind-blowing flavor. Learn all about the incredible heritage of Berkshire hogs and Snake River Farms Kurobuta hams — and how to choose the perfect ham for your holiday celebration.
What is Berkshire Pork?
Berkshire pork comes from a specialty breed of pigs from Berkshire County, England. It is known for its higher level of marbling which lends a more tender and juicier flavor than regular pork. Berkshire pork is often referred to as Kurobuta or “black hog” in Japanese, a name given to the pigs when they were first imported to Japan.
If you’re interested in a deeper dive into the heritage pork, explore our full guide: Heritage Pork Guide: The Complete Guide to Kurobuta Pork.
Kurobuta pork is the opposite of factory-farmed, commodified pork. Like American Wagyu cattle, Berkshire hogs are genetically predisposed to producing beautifully marbled meat. Marbling means flavor, and Kurobuta pork delivers a robust and rich sensation in every bite. You’ll notice Kurobuta pork has a deeper reddish hue than grocery store pork.
That reflects its naturally higher pH, a product of exceptional marbling and an indicator of deeper flavor. Add to those qualities a closely monitored diet and humane conditions, and you’ve got pork cuts that deliver an unsurpassed dining experience.
Berkshire Pig Origins
Berkshire hogs have been bred and raised in Berkshire County, England for over 400 years. With their distinctive black color and richly hued flesh, Berkshire hogs have long been prized as a heritage breed — which means they are raised for exceptional flavor and tenderness, not speed or disease resistance like most commodity animals. Think of them in the same arena as an heirloom tomato.
Berkshire pigs were some of the first imports Japan allowed at the end of its isolationist period in the 1800s. Renamed Kurobuta, their purebred progeny is still raised on the Japanese island of Kyushu, where their full flavor and remarkable juiciness gained acclaim among upscale diners throughout the 20th century.
Sustaining a Heritage of Pure Quality
By the 1950s, Berkshire hogs had made their way to farms in the United States. These black beauties raked in championships and set a high standard for the American palate. In the post-World War II boom of commercial meat production, their popularity waned. Thankfully, a handful of small family farms persevered in cultivating this historic breed across the Midwest, particularly in Iowa.
Much like the visionary founder of Snake River Farms, these hardworking families continue to champion sustainable farming practices and passionately safeguard the purebred genetics and superior quality of Kurobuta pork raised right here in America’s heartland.
Berkshire Pork Characteristics & Choosing the Right SRF Ham
Snake River Farms offers a full line of Kurobuta hams that arrive fully cooked and frozen for safe delivery. Choose a size based on the number of guests — plan for 8 to 12 ounces of ham per person — and decide between bone-in and boneless depending on your priorities:
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Flavor-Focused Tradition
If flavor takes priority, choose a half or whole bone-in ham. The meat closest to the bone becomes exceptionally juicy and tender, and the leftover ham bone adds incredible richness to soups and stocks.
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Convenience and Easy Serving
If you prefer simple slicing and plating, go with an SRF boneless ham. It delivers the same high-quality Kurobuta experience without navigating around the bone at the table.
Whichever style you choose, allow several days to thaw safely, then heat in the oven or on the grill. Enjoy it as-is or elevate the experience with one of our ham glaze recipes.
For more pork inspiration after the holidays: Guide: How to Cook a Ham.
Bone-In Half Ham
Traditional bone-in ham with incredible flavor and juiciness, perfect for smaller gatherings.
Shop Bone-In Half Ham →
Whole Bone-In Ham
Classic full-sized bone-in ham for holiday feasts and special occasions.
Shop Whole Bone-In Ham →
Whole Boneless Ham
Fully cooked, easy-to-slice boneless ham, perfect for stress-free serving.
Shop Whole Boneless Ham →
Half Boneless Ham
Convenient half-sized boneless ham, perfect for smaller dinners or leftover meals.
Shop Half Boneless Ham →Frequently Asked Questions About Berkshire Pork
What makes Berkshire pork different from regular pork?
Is Kurobuta pork the same as Berkshire pork?
How should I cook Berkshire pork for the best flavor?
Can Berkshire pork be used for pulled pork?
Where can I buy high-quality Berkshire pork?
Experience the Rich Taste of Heritage Pork
Whether you’re planning a holiday centerpiece, a cozy dinner, or an elevated weeknight meal, Berkshire pork (Kurobuta) delivers unmatched flavor and tenderness that will impress any guest. From fully cooked hams to versatile chops and slow-cooked cuts, Snake River Farms offers heritage pork raised responsibly and crafted for memorable meals.
Explore our full selection and bring the rich, juicy taste of Kurobuta pork to your table today: Shop Kurobuta Pork.
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