Ham shank, that flavorful, often overlooked cut of pork, offers a fantastic opportunity for a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional holiday centerpiece or a comforting weeknight dinner, mastering the art of cooking a ham shank will undoubtedly elevate your culinary skills. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to preparing the perfect ham shank, covering everything from preparation and cooking methods to serving suggestions and leftovers.
Understanding Ham Shank: A Cut Above the Rest
What exactly is ham shank? Simply put, it’s the lower portion of the pig’s leg, located between the hock (ankle) and the ham portion. Often sold cured and smoked, it boasts a rich, smoky flavor and a generous amount of connective tissue. This tissue, when cooked properly, breaks down into gelatin, contributing to a moist and incredibly flavorful end product.
Unlike a whole ham, which can sometimes be daunting in size, a ham shank is generally smaller and more manageable, making it ideal for smaller gatherings or families. It’s also considerably more budget-friendly, offering an economical way to enjoy the delicious taste of ham.
Preparing Your Ham Shank for Cooking: Laying the Groundwork for Success
Before you even think about turning on the oven or firing up the slow cooker, proper preparation is crucial. This involves a few simple steps that will significantly impact the final flavor and texture of your ham shank.
Rinsing and Trimming
Start by thoroughly rinsing the ham shank under cold water. This helps remove any excess salt or brine from the curing process. Pat it dry with paper towels. Next, examine the shank for any tough or excessive skin. While some skin is desirable for added flavor, too much can prevent proper cooking and result in a rubbery texture. Trim off any particularly thick or tough portions, leaving a thin layer of fat to baste the meat as it cooks.
Optional: Soaking for Salt Reduction
If your ham shank seems particularly salty (check the package for sodium content), consider soaking it in cold water for a few hours, or even overnight, in the refrigerator. Change the water periodically to help draw out the excess salt. This step is optional and depends entirely on your personal preference and the saltiness of the ham.
Scoring the Ham (Optional)
While not strictly necessary, scoring the ham’s surface can improve the penetration of flavors from any rubs or glazes you plan to use. Use a sharp knife to make shallow, diamond-shaped cuts across the surface of the ham, being careful not to cut too deep into the meat.
Cooking Methods: Choosing the Right Approach
Now comes the fun part: cooking! There are several excellent methods for cooking a ham shank, each offering slightly different results. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular and effective techniques:
Oven Roasting: The Classic Choice
Oven roasting is a tried-and-true method for cooking ham shank, yielding a beautifully browned exterior and a tender, juicy interior. It allows for precise temperature control and is ideal for achieving a consistent result.
Oven Temperature and Cooking Time
The key to successful oven roasting is maintaining a low and slow temperature. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ham shank in a roasting pan, preferably with a rack to allow for even air circulation. Add about a cup of water or broth to the bottom of the pan to create steam and prevent the ham from drying out. Cover the pan tightly with foil.
The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the ham shank, but a general rule of thumb is to cook it for about 20-25 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked hams, or 160°F (71°C) for uncooked hams.
Adding a Glaze
For a truly spectacular ham shank, consider adding a glaze during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. Remove the foil and brush the ham with your favorite glaze. Return it to the oven, uncovered, and continue to cook until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches the desired level.
Some popular glaze options include:
- Brown sugar and mustard glaze
- Maple syrup and Dijon mustard glaze
- Pineapple and ginger glaze
- Honey and bourbon glaze
Slow Cooking: Set It and Forget It
Slow cooking is an excellent option for busy cooks who want a tender and flavorful ham shank with minimal effort. The low and slow cooking process allows the connective tissue to break down completely, resulting in an incredibly moist and succulent ham.
Setting Up Your Slow Cooker
Place the ham shank in your slow cooker. Add enough liquid, such as water, broth, or even apple cider, to cover the bottom of the slow cooker by about an inch. This will help keep the ham moist during the cooking process.
Cooking Time
Cook the ham shank on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked hams, or 160°F (71°C) for uncooked hams.
Adding Vegetables
For a complete meal, consider adding vegetables to the slow cooker along with the ham shank. Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and turnips work particularly well, as they can withstand the long cooking time without becoming mushy.
Pressure Cooking: Speed and Flavor
For those short on time, pressure cooking offers a rapid and effective way to cook a ham shank. The high pressure helps to tenderize the meat quickly, while also infusing it with flavor.
Pressure Cooking Instructions
Place the ham shank in your pressure cooker. Add enough liquid, such as water or broth, to cover the bottom of the pressure cooker by about an inch.
Cooking Time
Cook the ham shank on high pressure for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Check the internal temperature to ensure it has reached 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked hams, or 160°F (71°C) for uncooked hams.
Serving Your Ham Shank: Presentation Matters
Once your ham shank is cooked to perfection, it’s time to carve and serve it. Proper carving not only enhances the presentation but also makes it easier to enjoy.
Carving Techniques
Place the ham shank on a cutting board. Use a sharp carving knife to slice the meat against the grain. The grain refers to the direction in which the muscle fibers run. Slicing against the grain helps to shorten the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easier to chew.
You can also shred the ham shank for use in sandwiches, soups, or other dishes. The meat should be very tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
Ham shank is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few popular serving suggestions:
- As a main course with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and gravy.
- Sliced and served on sandwiches with your favorite condiments.
- Shredded and added to soups, stews, or casseroles.
- Diced and used in breakfast dishes like omelets or breakfast burritos.
Maximizing Flavor: Glazes, Rubs, and More
While a good ham shank has inherent flavor, you can elevate it even further with the addition of glazes, rubs, and other flavor enhancers.
Glazes: Sweet and Savory
As mentioned earlier, glazes are a fantastic way to add a touch of sweetness and complexity to your ham shank. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find your favorite.
Rubs: Flavor from the Inside Out
Dry rubs, applied before cooking, can penetrate deep into the meat and impart a savory flavor. Consider using a combination of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and black pepper.
Brining: Extra Moisture and Flavor
Although most ham shanks are already cured, you can further enhance their flavor and moisture content by brining them before cooking. A simple brine consists of water, salt, sugar, and your choice of aromatics, such as peppercorns, bay leaves, and garlic.
Storing and Using Leftover Ham Shank: Waste Not, Want Not
One of the best things about cooking a ham shank is the abundance of leftovers. Here’s how to store and use them creatively:
Proper Storage
Allow the leftover ham shank to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Creative Leftover Ideas
Don’t let your leftover ham shank go to waste! Here are a few delicious ways to use it:
- Ham and Bean Soup: Use the leftover ham bone to add flavor to a hearty ham and bean soup.
- Ham Sandwiches: Slice or shred the ham and use it for delicious sandwiches with your favorite toppings.
- Ham and Cheese Quiche: Add diced ham to a quiche for a savory and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
- Ham Fried Rice: Dice the ham and add it to fried rice for a flavorful and protein-packed meal.
Cooking a ham shank doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right techniques and a little bit of creativity, you can create a truly memorable and delicious meal. Experiment with different cooking methods, glazes, and serving suggestions to find your perfect ham shank recipe.
What is a ham shank and how does it differ from other ham cuts?
A ham shank is the lower portion of the pig’s leg, offering a rich, smoky flavor and a more pronounced ham taste than other cuts. It’s typically sold bone-in and is often less expensive than other ham options like the center cut or spiral-cut. The shank’s distinct flavor comes from its proximity to the bone and the muscle tissue in that area, making it a great choice for slow cooking methods that extract maximum flavor.
Compared to other cuts, the ham shank requires longer cooking times due to its bone-in nature and denser muscle structure. A center-cut ham, for example, is leaner and cooks more quickly. Spiral-cut hams are pre-sliced and require minimal cooking. The shank offers a more rustic and robust flavor profile, ideal for dishes where the ham is the star, while other cuts may be preferred for sandwiches or quick weeknight meals.
What are the best cooking methods for a ham shank?
Slow cooking methods, such as baking in a Dutch oven or using a slow cooker, are generally considered the best for ham shanks. These methods allow the ham to cook evenly and slowly, resulting in a tender and flavorful final product. The long cooking time allows the collagen in the ham to break down, making the meat more succulent and easier to shred.
Alternatively, braising in a flavorful liquid is another excellent option. This method involves searing the ham shank first, then simmering it in a liquid such as broth, wine, or cider. Braising not only tenderizes the ham but also infuses it with the flavors of the braising liquid, creating a deeply satisfying and aromatic dish.
What internal temperature should a ham shank reach for safe consumption?
A fully cooked ham shank, readily available in most grocery stores, only needs to be reheated to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption. Using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding bone, is the most reliable way to ensure it reaches this temperature. Reaching this temperature ensures it is heated through and safe to eat.
For hams that are not fully cooked, follow the USDA guidelines for uncooked ham. These hams need to be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and allowed to rest for at least three minutes before carving. This higher temperature is crucial for killing any potential bacteria and ensuring the ham is safe for consumption.
What types of glazes complement the flavor of a ham shank?
A variety of glazes can enhance the flavor of a ham shank, ranging from sweet to savory. Popular choices include honey-mustard glazes, brown sugar glazes, and fruit-based glazes like apricot or pineapple. These glazes provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the smoky and salty flavor of the ham, creating a balanced and delicious dish.
Savory glazes can also be used to complement a ham shank. Options like a bourbon-mustard glaze or a maple-soy glaze add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Experimenting with different glazes allows you to customize the ham’s flavor to your specific preferences and create a unique and memorable meal.
How long should I cook a ham shank per pound?
The cooking time for a ham shank depends on the cooking method and whether the ham is fully cooked or uncooked. For a fully cooked ham shank, bake at 325°F (160°C) for approximately 15-18 minutes per pound. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
For an uncooked ham shank, baking at 325°F (160°C) for 20-25 minutes per pound is recommended, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches the appropriate internal temperature, as cooking times can vary depending on the specific ham shank and oven.
What are some side dishes that pair well with a ham shank?
A variety of side dishes pair wonderfully with a ham shank, complementing its rich, smoky flavor. Classic choices include scalloped potatoes, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and sweet potato casserole. These sides provide a comforting and satisfying accompaniment to the ham, creating a complete and balanced meal.
Other excellent side dish options include roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. These add a touch of freshness and color to the plate, while also providing essential nutrients. A simple salad or fruit salad can also offer a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the ham.
How should I store leftover ham shank?
Leftover ham shank should be stored properly to maintain its quality and prevent bacterial growth. Allow the ham to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cooked ham can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Alternatively, you can freeze leftover ham for longer storage. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or freezer paper, then place it in a freezer bag. Frozen ham can last for 1-2 months without significant loss of quality. Thaw the ham in the refrigerator before reheating. Remember to use leftover ham in various dishes like soups, sandwiches, or casseroles to minimize waste.