Cooking a shank portion ham might sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward and rewarding. This flavorful cut from the lower part of the pig’s leg is perfect for hearty meals and special occasions. With the right technique, you’ll get juicy, tender meat with a beautiful glaze that will impress family and friends. Let’s dive into how to cook a shank portion ham step by step!
What Is a Shank Portion Ham?
The shank portion ham comes from the lower leg of the pig, just above the hock. It typically includes part of the bone and plenty of rich, flavorful meat. Shank hams can be sold either raw (fresh) or pre-cooked (often smoked). Raw shank hams require longer cooking to become tender, while pre-cooked ones mainly need reheating and glazing.
Preparing Your Shank Portion Ham
Before cooking, some simple prep work ensures the best results:
– Remove Packaging and Netting: Unwrap your ham and take off any netting or strings.
– Trim Excess Fat: Use a sharp knife to trim most of the thick fat cap or pork rind, leaving a thin layer for moisture and flavor.
– Score the Fat: Lightly score the fat in a criss-cross or diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates a beautiful caramelized crust.
– Season Lightly: Brush the ham with mustard or oil to help the glaze stick. Since ham is already salty, go easy on added salt.
– Rest: Let the ham rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
How to Cook a Shank Portion Ham: Step-by-Step
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, ensuring tender meat.
2. Place the Ham in a Roasting Pan
Put your shank ham fat side up 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.
3. Cover and Roast
Cover the pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil to trap steam and keep the ham juicy. Roast the ham for about 15-20 minutes per pound. For example, a 5-pound ham will take roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes.
4. Prepare the Glaze
While the ham roasts, mix a simple glaze to add sweetness and tang. A classic combination includes:
– Brown sugar
– Dijon mustard
– Ground cloves, cinnamon, or paprika (optional for warmth and spice)
– Black pepper to taste
Mix these ingredients well until smooth.
5. Glaze and Finish Roasting
After the initial roasting time, remove the foil and spoon the glaze generously over the ham, making sure it seeps into the scored cuts. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and roast uncovered for another 15-30 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, creating a delicious crust.
6. Rest Before Serving
Once done, take the ham out and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10-20 minutes to let the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
7. Slice and Serve
Carve the ham into thin slices against the grain. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with any remaining glaze or pan juices. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Ham Shank Cooking
– Check Internal Temperature: For pre-cooked ham, heat to about 135-140°F (57-60°C). For raw ham, cook to 160°F (71°C) for safety.
– Baste Regularly: If you like, baste the ham with pan juices every 30 minutes during roasting to enhance flavor and moisture.
– Use the Bone: The bone left in the shank is great for making flavorful soups or stocks after carving.
– Leftovers: Ham shank leftovers keep well in the fridge for a few days and make excellent sandwiches or additions to soups.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
– Spiced Glaze: Add ground cloves, cinnamon, or smoked paprika to your glaze for a warm, aromatic touch.
– Savory Herbs: Sprinkle dried rosemary, thyme, or sage on the ham before roasting for an herby aroma.
– Sweet and Tangy: Mix honey or maple syrup into the glaze for extra sweetness.
– Wine or Stock: Replace water in the roasting pan with chicken broth, apple cider, or white wine for deeper flavor.
Cooking a shank portion ham is easier than you think and perfect for any occasion. With simple prep, a flavorful glaze, and slow roasting, you’ll enjoy a tender, juicy ham that’s bursting with flavor. Give it a try-you’ll love the delicious results!