Smoked ham shank is a flavorful, tender cut of meat that can elevate any meal with its rich, smoky taste. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, knowing how to cook a smoked ham shank properly will ensure a juicy, mouthwatering dish every time. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know-from preparation to cooking techniques-to make your smoked ham shank a star on the table.
What Is a Smoked Ham Shank?
The ham shank is the lower part of the pig’s leg, typically smoked to enhance its flavor. It’s a well-marbled cut with a good amount of connective tissue, which breaks down during cooking, giving the meat a tender, juicy texture. Because it is smoked, it already carries a deep, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet and spicy glazes or simple seasoning.
Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 3-5 pounds)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Aluminum foil
– Roasting pan
– Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook a Smoked Ham Shank
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham shank to cook slowly and evenly, preserving moisture and tenderness.
2. Prepare the Ham Shank
Trim any excess fat from the ham shank, but don’t remove all of it-some fat helps keep the meat moist and enhances flavor during cooking. Score the surface lightly with a sharp knife to help the seasonings penetrate better.
3. Season the Meat
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the ham shank, coating it evenly. This blend adds a subtle sweetness and spice that complements the smoky flavor.
4. Arrange in Roasting Pan
Place the ham shank fat side up in a shallow roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan to keep the meat moist as it cooks. Scatter the chopped onion and thyme sprigs around the ham for added aroma and taste.
5. Cover and Bake
Cover the roasting pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil to seal in moisture and flavor. Bake the ham shank in the oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. Glaze and Finish Baking (Optional)
If you want a nice caramelized glaze, remove the foil after the initial baking, brush the ham with extra brown sugar or a mustard glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. This step adds a beautiful golden crust and extra flavor.
7. Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, take the ham shank out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender and juicy when sliced.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the ham shank thinly and serve with your favorite sides. The smoky, sweet, and savory flavors pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Leftovers can be used in soups, sandwiches, or casseroles.
Alternative Cooking Method: Smoking Your Ham Shank
If you want to enhance the smoky flavor even more, you can smoke the ham shank yourself:
– Trim excess fat but leave some for moisture.
– Rub the ham with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
– Prepare your smoker to maintain a temperature between 250-275°F.
– Add wood chips like cherry or hickory for a rich smoke aroma.
– Smoke the ham shank until it reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F.
– Let it rest before slicing and serving.
Smoking adds an extra depth of flavor and is perfect for those who love that authentic barbecue taste.
Tips for Perfect Smoked Ham Shank
– Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
– Keep the ham covered during most of the cooking to retain moisture.
– Don’t rush the cooking process; slow and steady heat yields the best texture.
– Experiment with different glazes like honey mustard, brown sugar, or maple syrup for variety.
Cooking a smoked ham shank is straightforward and rewarding. With simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Smoked ham shank offers a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors that make it a versatile centerpiece for any meal. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!