Many people overlook a small, highly nutritious part of the pig that is often considered a delicacy: the pork cheek. Though it makes up only about 200 grams per pig, it’s incredibly tender, flavorful, and packed with nutrients—making it a shame to pass up.

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What Is Pork Cheek ?

When buying pork, most people reach for loin, ribs, or ham without realizing that the cheek meat is exceptionally soft and tasty.

The outer cheek meat may contain more fat, but the inner part—the pork cheek —features tender muscles interlaced with thin, delicate tendons and a little marbled fat. These tendons are soft, not tough or chewy, giving the meat a unique, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Experienced butchers often say that pork cheek is one of the most prized parts of the pig, but it sells out quickly. In many local markets, by 7 a.m., most of the má đào is already gone.

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Health Benefits of Pork Cheek

Beyond its taste, pork cheek is extremely nutritious:

• Rich in vitamins B and D: Supports digestion and helps the body absorb essential nutrients while boosting the immune system.

• Packed with minerals: Promotes nervous system health, improves memory, and reduces stress.

• Supports bone and eye health: Nutrients in pork cheek help prevent osteoporosis and strengthen overall vitality.

• Aids recovery for the sick or weak: Highly nutritious and easy to digest, ideal for convalescence.

• High in collagen: Beneficial for skin elasticity, keeping skin smooth, radiant, and youthful.

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Tips for Buying Pork Cheek

Because it’s rare and highly sought after, you may need to:

• Arrive at the market early or ask the butcher to reserve it.

• Look for dry, firm meat; avoid pieces that feel wet or slimy, which may indicate water injection or freezing.

• Ensure the color is bright pink or red, not dark or grayish.

• Check that the meat has no unusual odor, retains elasticity, and isn’t releasing excess liquid.

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Delicious Ways to Cook Pork Cheek

1. Braised with Quail Eggs (Thịt Má Đào Kho Trứng Cút)

This dish is similar to traditional braised pork. Clean the meat, boil quail eggs, and marinate the pork with fish sauce, salt, sugar, MSG, shallots, and chopped chili.

• Brown the pork briefly, then add caramelized sauce and coconut water for natural sweetness.

• Add the quail eggs at the end.

• Result: tender, slightly chewy pork with a balanced richness, without being overly fatty.

2. Stir-Fried with Vegetables

Pork cheek can be stir-fried with vegetables like bell peppers, baby corn, and peas. Its tender, slightly gelatinous texture is often compared to the finest cuts of beef. Combined with fresh vegetables, the dish is both flavorful and nutritious.

3. Grilled Pork Cheek

Unlike ordinary pork that dries out easily, pork cheek absorbs marinades deeply and remains soft when grilled. Use ready-made BBQ marinades for convenience, and pair with vegetables for a simple, flavorful meal. Its rich taste and texture make it ideal for a small home BBQ.

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Final Thoughts

Although it’s a small portion of the pig, pork cheek (má đào) is a culinary gem—tender, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. From braising to stir-frying or grilling, it’s versatile and worth seeking out at the market. Early risers or those who reserve it in advance are often rewarded with this highly prized, delicious cut.