Cooking a shank portion ham may sound intimidating, but with the right steps, you can create a tender, flavorful, and impressive meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to cook a shank ham to perfection.
What Is a Shank Portion Ham?
A shank portion ham is the lower part of the pig’s leg, just above the hock. It includes the bone and plenty of flavorful meat. Shank hams can be bought either precooked (often smoked) or raw, which affects cooking time and preparation. This cut is known for its rich taste and juicy texture when cooked properly.
Preparing Your Shank Ham
Before cooking, some simple prep work ensures the best results:
– Remove packaging and netting. Rinse if you like, then pat dry.
– Trim excess fat and skin. Leave a thin layer of fat for moisture and flavor but remove thick or tough skin and rind if present.
– Score the fat cap. Lightly cut a crisscross or diamond pattern into the fat without cutting into the meat. This helps the glaze and seasonings soak in.
– Season lightly. Since ham is often cured and salty, use minimal salt. You can brush the ham with mustard or oil to help spices stick.
Let the ham rest for 30 minutes to 2 hours after seasoning to let the flavors settle in.
How to Cook a Shank Portion Ham: Step-by-Step
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham in a shallow roasting pan. Add about ½ to 1 inch of water, broth, or juice to the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist during cooking.
2. Cover and Roast
Cover the ham and pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil to trap steam and keep the meat juicy. Roast for about 15-20 minutes per pound if raw, or until the internal temperature reaches:
– 160°F (71°C) for raw ham
– 135-140°F (57-60°C) for precooked ham
This usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on size.
3. Prepare a Glaze
While the ham roasts, mix a simple glaze to add sweetness and tang. A popular combination includes:
– Brown sugar
– Dijon mustard
– Spices like ground cloves, cinnamon, paprika, and black pepper (optional)
Mix these ingredients until smooth. Half the glaze can be reserved for serving later.
4. Glaze and Finish Roasting
After the initial roasting, remove the foil and brush the ham generously with the glaze. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C) and roast uncovered for an additional 15-30 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, creating a delicious crust.
5. Rest Before Slicing
Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10-20 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy when sliced.
6. Slice and Serve
Carve the ham thinly against the grain. Arrange slices on a platter and drizzle with any remaining glaze or pan juices. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Ham Shank Cooking
– Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
– Baste occasionally during roasting to keep the ham moist.
– Use the bone left in the shank to make flavorful soups or stocks.
– Leftovers can be refrigerated and used in sandwiches, soups, or salads.
Cooking a shank portion ham is easier than you think and yields a wonderfully rich and tender meal. With simple prep, a tasty glaze, and careful roasting, your ham will be the star of any table. Enjoy your delicious creation!