Ham

Ham is a versatile and flavorful meat that is a staple in many cuisines around the world. It is available year-round, with peak seasonality around holiday periods such as Easter and Christmas. Ham is commonly used in European, American, and Asian dishes, offering a range of culinary uses from main courses to sandwich fillings and pizza toppings. It can be served cooked or cured, smoked or unsmoked, and varies widely in flavor depending on the preparation method.

Ham Synonyms

Gammon
Jambon
Prosciutto
Jamón

Ham Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Ham

Deli Ham

Pre-cooked and sliced ham, typically found in the refrigerated section, ideal for sandwiches and quick servings.

Cured Ham

Treated with brine or dry salt, cured ham comes in varieties such as country ham, prosciutto, and jamón.

Whole Ham

Uncured and unprocessed, this form requires cooking and is often sold as a full, half, or spiral-sliced cut.

Canned Ham

Fully cooked ham that is preserved in a can, convenient for storage and quick meals.

Smoked Ham

Cured or uncured ham that has been smoked over wood chips for flavor, available as bone-in, boneless, or sliced.

How to Choose Ham

When selecting a ham, consider the occasion and preparation method. For a special event, a whole or spiral-sliced ham may be appropriate. Look for a firm texture, consistent coloring, and a moderate amount of fat, which contributes to flavor and moisture. For cured hams like prosciutto, seek out a balance of saltiness and sweetness, and a deep red color. Avoid hams with excessive water content or added fillers. For canned ham, check the label for the meat content and preservatives used.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Ham

Ham, a versatile and flavorful meat, can be a show-stopping centerpiece or a complementary addition to many dishes. When cooking ham, it's important to consider whether it's fresh, cured, or fully cooked, as this will influence the cooking method and time. For cured and fully cooked hams, the goal is often to reheat and perhaps add additional flavor through glazing, while fresh ham requires thorough cooking. A meat thermometer is a valuable tool for ensuring that fresh ham reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a three-minute rest time. For added flavor and moisture, consider basting the ham throughout the cooking process or applying a glaze towards the end to avoid burning the sugars.

Shelf Life of Ham

Fresh and cured hams should be stored in the refrigerator. Whole hams can last up to a week, while sliced ham should be consumed within 3-5 days. Smoked ham has a longer shelf life due to the smoking process and can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. Canned ham can be stored in a cool, dry place until opened, after which it should be refrigerated and used within 3-5 days. Deli ham should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within 5 days for best quality. To extend the shelf life, consider freezing ham that won't be used immediately, ensuring it's tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Recommended Brands for Ham

Deli Ham: Boar's Head

Cured Ham: Prosciutto di Parma

Whole Ham: Smithfield

Canned Ham: Hormel

Smoked Ham: Nueske's

Cooking Techniques for Ham

Baking: Baking is a common method for preparing ham, especially during holidays. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C), place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Bake until it reaches the desired internal temperature, uncovering and applying a glaze during the last 20-30 minutes if desired.

Grilling: Grilling can impart a smoky flavor to ham steaks or slices. Preheat the grill to medium-high and cook the ham until it's heated through and has nice grill marks, which adds texture and flavor. Glazes can be brushed on during the last few minutes of grilling.

Slow Cooking: For a hands-off approach, especially with a pre-cooked ham, the slow cooker is ideal. It keeps the ham moist and tender. Simply place the ham inside the slow cooker with your choice of liquids or glaze, and cook on low for several hours until heated through.

Popular Ham Recipes

Ham and Pea Risotto
Glazed Easter Ham
Split Pea Soup with Ham

Ham Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 5.0 g
fiber: 0.0 g
sugar: 0.0 g
protein: 24.0 g
calories: 145 kcal
carbohydrates: 0.0 g

Flavor Combinations

Ham pairs well with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Common pairings include pineapple, cherries, and apples for a sweet contrast. Mustard, vinegar, and citrus offer a tangy counterpoint, while cloves, cinnamon, and brown sugar complement the ham's richness. Vegetables like asparagus, green beans, and potatoes also work well alongside ham. Cheeses such as Gruyère and cheddar can be used in dishes like ham and cheese quiche or a ham and potato gratin.

Allergen Information

Ham is not a common allergen, but individuals with specific dietary restrictions or religious practices may need to avoid it. Additionally, those with a sensitivity to nitrates, which are often used in curing ham, should opt for nitrate-free varieties.

Ingredient Comparisons

Recipes with Ham

Ham and Pea Soup