It's been called the "Wagyu of Pork" for its buttery texture, interspersed marbling and flavorful richness recognized around the world as one of the finest pork. The prized Kurobuta Pork from pure breed, pasture-raised, antibiotic and hormone-free naturally grown Berkshire or "black pig" is undoubtedly one of those memorable highlights in any culinary adventure, and being at the source of it all is an unforgettable experience in itself. Welcome to the farm of Esguerra Kurobuta...
A day at the farm seemed like the perfect escape and welcome break from the hectic pace of the city, but it also provided a whole new perspective on the concept of food provenance. At the sprawling Esguerra Farms & Stud in Lipa, an immersive experience into the day-to-day operations revealed why Esguerra Kurobuta is the preferred choice of some the very best restaurants, retailers and hotels in the country. The prized pork from pure breed Berkshire known the world over for its tender, juicy, clean yet rich flavors with just a hint of subtle nutty sweetness was an experience once limited to a selected few but Esguerra Kurobuta changes all that. Locally raised world-class pork is now more accessible and available to a wider market. Read on and enjoy a virtual taste of the much-sought after Kurobuta Pork from Esguerra Kurobuta...
Located down south in Batangas, Esguerra Farms & Stud sets the standard for modern farming with its self-contained environment anchored on sustainability. The biosecure facilities and sustainable philosophy sets Esguerra Farms & Stud apart from the usual operations with its strict adherence to a regimented yet all-natural and stress-free approach. Minimizing stress means happier pigs, and that means pork of the highest quality.
I previously featured the world-class offerings of Esguerra Kurobuta in a previous post on the sumptuous Kurobuta Nights buffet offering of Cucina at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, and being at the source of pure pork goodness provided a unique opportunity to appreciate the quality behind the prized pork (see my post, Let The Pork Feast Begin. It's Kurobuta Nights at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila's Cucina...from March this year).
Deep inside the farm, the vast and seemingly infinite acreage provides the necessary space for all the livestock to roam and forage freely within their zones. And this is where Esguerra Farms & Stud makes a relevant point of differentiation raising the bar for farm operations. The luxury of space impacts the quality of livestock with the benefits of the free-range concept to minimize stress a priority at Esguerra Farms & Stud.
The wide expanse includes specific zones for different livestock including gardens for fruits and vegetables as well as a fishpond. The diversified operations at Esguerra Farms & Stud is a model for the circular economy with each zone benefitting the other in a perfect ecosystem.
The property was originally the family's refuge away from the city and began as a horse farm. It still is, and the esteemed and highly awarded horse breeder Herminio Esguerra continues to raise some of the country's premier race horses at Esguerra Farms & Stud.
That day, a herd of horses welcomed our arrival at Esguerra Farms & Stud...
...setting the tone for the rest of the day. The values of sustainable farming anchored on economy, employee and environmental wellness becomes evident the moment you enter the farm and greeted by the local residents.
A family friend introduced the unique and distinct quality of Kurobuta Pork and right then and there, the decision to start raising Kurobuta pigs locally following the same high standards set by the Japanese with free-range, antibiotic and hormone-free farming became a logical next step in the farm's expansion.
At the farm's Kurobuta Village, the pampered pigs roam freely within their own zone at Esguerra Farms & Stud. Naturally grown and exposed to the sun, wind and rain, the pasture-raised black pigs are also treated to music therapy similar to how Wagyu cattle are raised. And why not, music definitely plays a role in reducing stress resulting in a beneficial impact on the herd's behavior, immunity and ph levels. The higher ph levels allows for maximum marbling of interspersed fat between the meat resulting in richer and natural flavors. The deep and vibrant pinkish color of the meat is retained often mistaken for beef. And without stress, the meat becomes tender with that buttery finish. A diet of all-natural, chemical-free and fermented plant-based feeds nourishes the black pigs for fragrant and cleaner flavors. Currents stocks are pegged at over a thousand hogs at different stages with breeding and propagation programmed by an in-house vet to meet the ever growing demand for quality pork.
It's no surprise then that luxurious hotel properties like The Peninsula Manila, Marco Polo, Sheraton, Okada Manila, City of Dreams, Solaire Resort & Casino, Okura Hotels & Resorts, Grand Hyatt Manila, Templar Hotel and Sofitel Hotels & Resorts serve Esguerra Kurobuta. High end and popular restaurants also serve Esguerra Kurobuta like Wolfgang's Steakhouse, Wild Flour Restaurant, Black Pig, Mario's, Nikkei Robata, L'Entrecôte, Sourdough Cafe + Deli, Ramen Nagi, 1120 House, Qiwellness Living, Kai, Miyazaki, Base Cafe and Balai Palma.
Unfortunately, the threat of ASF or African Swine Fever prevented any close contact with the drift of pure breed Berkshire at the farm. Biosecurity is taken seriously at Esguerra Farms & Stud, and rightly so. From a distance, one can see the herds of pure Berkshire pigs roaming their secluded zone. Happy pigs? Definitely.
Back at the bus, we toured the rest of the facilities at the farm with a stop at another zone for the flocks of ducks. But not just any ordinary ducks, Esguerra Farms & Stud boasts of Peking Duck...
...following the same free-range philosophy in a meticulously clean setting. Complimenting the flocks of Peking Duck at the farm are chickens in their own separate zone.
Another zone features the farm's herds of Australian Lamb...
...with open and easy access to their own sheds and feeding areas. The farm also has a specific zone for goats adding to the diversity of livestock at the farm.
One of the other impressive features at the farm is the large pond with stocks of Tilapia and aquatic plants...
...with bridge ways allowing access to the different fenced areas containing batches of tilapia of the same developmental stage for easier harvesting.
Each zone complements the other with minimal to zero waste in the self-contained ecosystem of Esguerra Farms & Stud. Further down, patches of fruit-bearing trees line the roads along with gardens of fresh vegetables. Throughout the farm, not one whiff of the odors usually associated with commercial farms interrupted the experience. Cleanliness is a priority at Esguerra Farms & Stud, and also the best way to protect the various livestock. It's also one of many best kept secrets at Esguerra Farms & Stud in producing premium quality meats.
A certification from the National Meat Inspection Service and Bureau of Food and Drug Administration in recognition of the farm's excellent safety and quality standards is just another feather in Esguerra Kurobuta's cap.
Esguerra Farms & Stud also has its own meat processing facility to complete the cycle controlling the quality each step of the way. In addition, the farm has its own meat fabrication plant and cold storage within the property. Impressed with the farm tour, it was time for lunch...
...served at the spacious covered structure of the farm.
Esguerra Farms & Stud and Esguerra Kurobuta prepared a lavish buffet spread highlighting the quality and versatility of the world-renowned pork, and what a feast. After that buffet experience at Cucina in Marco Polo Ortigas Manila earlier this year, I wanted more of that Kurobuta Pork goodness.
Esguerra Kurobuta Director of Sales Irish Carreon welcomed guests to the farm's elegant pavillon for the much-awaited event on the itinerary, an all Kurobuta Pork feast.
A grazing box containing gourmet cheeses, fresh fruits and charcuterie from Esguerra Kurobuta's processed foods line like their Lyoner sausages kicked off the all Kurobuta Pork feast. Esguerra Kurobuta offers a variety of Sausages like Berkshire Classic Sausages, Berkshire Schublig Sausages, Berkshire Italian Sausage and four Lyoner variants; Hams such as Maple Glazed Ham, Esguerra Premium Kurobuta Pata Ham, BerkshireJamon Florentina and Esguerra Kurobuta Farmer's Round Ham; Bacon like Berkshire Thick Cut Belly Bacon and Jowl Breakfast Bacon; German Knuckles and Porchetta cured with herbs and spices for bold and fresh flavors.
Where to buy? Simply visit their website (see link at the bottom of this post) for online orders and in selected supermarkets and online retailers including All Day Supermarket, Metro Mart, GrabMart, Healthy Options, Manila's Best @Polo of Manila Polo Club, RealFood Healthy Neighborhood Grocer, Rare Food Shop, GoCart and Builtamart.
Esguerra Kurobuta's culinary team then fired up the grill for the savory all Kurobuta Pork lunch at Esguerra Farms & Stud. And Esguerra Kurobuta just pulled all the stops for a grand and memorable feast...
...starting with the refreshing Greek Salad with garden fresh and crisp lettuce, Feta cheese, olives, onions and peppers for that balanced start before the mouthwatering selection of Kurobuta Pork dishes.
At the lavish spread, Esguerra Kurobuta served their BBQ Liempo, perfectly grilled strips of pork belly with subtle smoky hints and sweet notes from the barbecue glaze. The delicate notes of the tender pork comes through with each bite smoothened by the interspersed fat for that buttery finish.
The Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon offered richer and more indulgent flavors draped in a rich and creamy sauce. The bold smoky notes of the bacon cuts through to temper the savory richness of the tenderloin for another tasty number from Esguerra Kurobuta.
The Ham Steak with its contrasting sweet and salty notes complements the clean flavors of the premium Kurobuta Pork...
...while the richly seasoned Cajun Ribs brings complex flavors with its blend of spices. The versatility of Kurobuta Pork with its pure and clean flavors makes it ideal for a wide variety of cuisines to satisfy any craving.
The dishes served like the Berkshire Cajun Ribs and Berkshire BBQ Liempo are part of Esguerra Kurobuta's extensive selection of products including Ready-to-Cook White Adobo Flakes, Ground Pork and Berkshire Tapa available for online orders via their website, selected online retailers and supermarkets.
From the Special Cuts selection of Esguerra Kurobuta is the popular Roasted Tomahawk served in prestigious hotels and upscale dining extablishments. Tender and juicy, the Roasted Tomahawk was one of many tasty highlights served that day...
...but if you prefer your Tomahawk romanced by the flames grilled low and slow over fiery charcoals, no problem. The culinary team of Esguerra Kurobuta will gladly fire one up for you.
The grill adds its magic to the slab of premium Kurobuta Pork Tomahawk releasing a fragrant aroma...
...and served to your table a la minute at its flavorful peak and fresh off the grill. The juicy tenderness of the thick cut slab teases the palate releasing intense yet clean notes followed by mild smoky hints lingering on the palate.
Simply seasoned with salt and pepper, the clean flavors of the pasture-raised black pig are perfectly highlighted by the Tomahawk with each bite draping the palate in an indulgent buttery richness Kurobuta pork is known for around the world.
Many say the true test of a good quality slab of meat is the minimal seasoning needed to bring out its full flavor potential without the need for complicated sauces to clutter its clean notes. The Tomahawk by Esguerra Kurobuta is spot on in terms of flavor and texture.
The Tomahawk, roasted or grilled, has to be one of my many personal picks from Esguerra Kurobuta with the interspersed fat adding both flavor and texture for pork that's a cut above the usual. Enjoy the Tomahawk and other special cuts like Berkshire Belly Slices, Berkshire Ribeye Tonkatsu, Berkshire Pork Chops, Berkshire Samgyeopsal Belly, Berkshire Samgyeopsal Jowl, Berkshire Coppa Steak, Berkshire Tenderloin Fillet Mignon, Berkshire Pork Steak, Berkshire Sukiyaki and Berkshire Ham Flank Meat through their online store and selected online retailers and supermarkets.
But Esguerra Kurobuta had even more flavorful surprises that memorable day at the farm...
The Esguerra Kurobuta Cochinillo adds a festive vibe to the table, and another addition to your growing list of must-try products. Less than a month old and milk fed, the approximately 5-10 kilos live weight of the Berkshire suckling pig has everything we look for in the classic lechon, tender and juicy meat with a more pronounced and sweeter notes and that delicately crisp layer of crackling.
The tender pork with its juicy and buttery texture releases a more distinct yet nuanced sweetness for an elegant upgrade on an all-time Filipino classic. It's that buttery and almost creamy mouthfeel along with the crisp crackling that resets your standard for the perfect cochinillo. And the pure breed pasture-raised Berkshire makes a whole lot of difference.
The culmination where the breed, highly regimented routine in raising the black pig and the proper setting with its free-range concept comes together for a perfect conclusion to a long and tedious process with each of the products like the cochinillo by Esguerra Kurobuta.
Take your first bite without the sauce to appreciate its pure, real flavors. And have another. That's cochinillo elevated with the pure breed Berkshire from naturally grown, pasture-raised, hormone and anti-biotic free Esguerra Kurobuta. Need a cochinillo for a special occasion? No worries. Just visit the website for your order.
In a flavorful twist, the culinary team prepared tasty bites of cochinillo wrapped in lettuce with a generous dab of kimchi for an inventive and refreshing take. The sharp notes of the kimchi pairs well with the buttery richness of the cochinillo for balanced flavors.
If you're thinking it just can't get any better after the Kurobuta Pork charcuterie, BBQ Liempo, Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon, Ham Steak, Cajun Ribs, Tomahawk and Cochinillo, think again. Esguerra Kurobuta also served their fresh grilled Kurobuta Pork Burgers at the DIY station complete with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, bacon, cheese, three kinds of sauces and a soft brioche bun for yet another tempting and customizable option at the farm.
I've had a pork chorizo burger before, but not a pure pork patty in a bun. How does it stack up versus the traditional all-beef burger?
It's much lighter than a beef burger but the flavors are there with its lightly sweeter savory finish. Juicy with more delicate notes, it's a solid burger for another delightful surprise from Esguerra Kurobuta.
The mild yet rich flavors of the ground Kurobuta Pork punches through with each bite, followed by a medley of flavors from the different toppings. Fresh off the grill and straight to the bun, it's a burger that made me do a second bite. And another.
The Esguerra Kurobuta team opened up a new world of tasty possibilities with one of the world's finest meats, locally raised and processed with the highest standards at the Esguerra Farms & Stud.
Before heading back home, guests were given a bag...
...containing some of Esguerra Kurobuta's products. Frozen and ready-to-cook, a sumptuous Kurobuta Pork meal at home awaits.
The bag contained products such as whole Berkshire German Knuckles or crispy pata and Berkshire Coppa Steak...
...Berkshire Pork Sisig, Bopis and Salpicao...
...and assorted charcuterie including Sweet Lyoner, Pepper Lyoner, Olive Lyoner and Italian Garlic Lyoner.
Local ingredients take the global stage with products like Esguerra Kurobuta, changing and upgrading the local culinary scene with its uncompromising commitment to quality. A day at the farm becomes more than just a much needed escape from the city, but an eye-opening experience and a better appreciation behind one of the world's prized pork. And the good part? Esguerra Kurobuta is easily accessible online or via selected supermarkets. Now you can enjoy hotel and restaurant quality pure Berkshire pork at home. It just takes a few clicks and taps on your mobile device...
Esguerra Kurobuta is located at 94 Scout Rallos Extension, Diliman, Lungsod ng Quezon, 1103 Metro Manila. You can also visit their website and FB Page at https://esguerrakurobuta.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/esguerrakurobuta/ for more information and updates or call 0917 820 3382 for inquiries. The Esguerra Farms & Stud is located 626 Indian Street, Lipa City, Batangas.
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