ham shank arrives at the table like a cherished family friend, slow-cooked in a fragrant broth of apple cider with honey-glazed root vegetables and bright citrus teasing the senses. Imagine crackling aromas drifting through the room while you settle into the comfort of creamy mashed potatoes and green beans kissed with garlic-infused olive oil. Each tender bite balances savory depth and gentle sweetness, with thyme and rosemary threading through the meat like a quiet lullaby. Perfect for cozy gatherings, this comforting centerpiece invites laughter, easy conversation, and memories seasoned with pure joy.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This ham shank
- Rich, savory flavor that warms your heart.
- Perfectly tender texture that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive feasts.
- Easy to prepare, making you the star of the kitchen.
- Great for leftovers, adding deliciousness to future meals.
ham shank
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This sets the stage for a perfectly cooked ham .
- Step 2: Pat the ham dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor beautifully.
- Step 3: In a Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ham shank on all sides until it’s golden and delicious.
- Step 4: Add chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns to the pot. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the ham .
- Step 5: Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and pulling away from the bone.
- Step 6: Once done, remove the ham from the oven. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in.
- Step 7: Skim the fat from the cooking liquid, strain it, and serve as a sauce or broth alongside your beautifully sliced ham shank.
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 5g |
Ingredients
Here are the delicious ingredients you’ll need for a delightful ham shank recipe.
- 1 ham shank – about 2–3 pounds
- 1 onion – quartered
- 2 carrots – chopped
- 2 celery stalks – chopped
- 4 cloves garlic – smashed
- 2 bay leaves – for flavor
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns – adds spice
- 4 cups water or broth – for cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing
- salt and pepper – to taste
How to Make ham shank
This delightful ham shank recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time, 2 to 3 hours of cooking time, and an additional 10 minutes for resting. Get ready to impress your family and friends!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This sets the stage for a perfectly cooked ham shank.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham Shank
Pat the ham shank dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor beautifully.
Step 3: Brown the Ham
In a Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ham on all sides until it’s golden and delicious.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Liquid
Add chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns to the pot. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the ham shank.
Step 5: Roast in the Oven
Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and pulling away from the bone.
Step 6: Rest the Ham
Once done, remove the ham shank from the oven. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in.
Step 7: Prepare the Sauce
Skim the fat from the cooking liquid, strain it, and serve as a sauce or broth alongside your beautifully sliced ham .
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 180 minutes |
| Extra Time | 10 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 205 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 8 |
| Best Served | With sauce or broth alongside slices |
Pro Tips for Making ham shank
- Score the surface of the ham shank for better flavor absorption.
- Use a mixture of brown sugar and mustard for a delicious glaze.
- Cook low and slow for tender, juicy meat.
- Let it rest before slicing to retain moisture.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Serve this ham
- Slice and serve with a tangy mustard glaze for a zesty kick.
- Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting combo.
- Top with a sweet pineapple chutney for a tropical twist.
- Accompany with a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Use leftovers in sandwiches with crunchy pickles for a tasty lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing your ham shank properly ensures delicious meals for days to come:
Storing ham Leftovers
- Allow the ham shank to cool completely.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place it in an airtight container for extra protection.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing ham
- Slice the ham shank into portions for easier thawing.
- Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then in foil.
- Label with the date and type of dish.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating ham
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Use a microwave or oven for even heating.
- Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
- Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes in the oven.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is a ham shank?
A ham shank is a cut of meat that comes from the lower part of the pig’s leg. It is typically tougher than other cuts, but it is packed with flavor and is perfect for slow cooking or braising. The meat is often used in soups, stews, and other hearty dishes, where it can become tender and delicious over time.
2. Is ham shank a good cut?
Yes, ham shank is considered a good cut, especially for those who enjoy rich, savory flavors. While it may require longer cooking times to become tender, the resulting meat is flavorful and can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s also a budget-friendly option, making it a great choice for families or meal prepping.
3. How best to cook ham shank?
The best way to cook ham shank is to braise it slowly. Start by searing it in a pot to develop a nice crust, then add broth or a flavorful liquid like apple cider or vegetable stock, along with your favorite herbs and spices. Cover and simmer on low heat for several hours until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and results in a delicious dish.
4. Are ham hocks and ham shanks the same thing?
While ham hocks and ham come from the same area of the pig, they are not the same. Ham hocks are the joint at the end of the leg, often containing more fat and skin, while ham are the lower part of the leg, typically with more meat. Both can be used in similar recipes, but they may yield different textures and flavors in your dishes.
Final Thoughts
As you savor this delightful ham shank, let the flavors transport you to cozy family gatherings and joyful celebrations. It’s simple to prepare and oh-so-rewarding! So gather your loved ones, share stories, and enjoy every bite of this delicious dish. You’ll be glad you did!