Ham is a staple on many dinner tables, especially during the holidays. But when it comes to choosing between shank and butt ham, which one is better?
Some say the shank end provides better flavor, while others argue that the butt end is easier to carve. With so much conflicting information out there, it can be hard to know which one to choose.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between shank and butt ham, and help you decide which one is right for your next meal.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about these delicious cuts of meat.
Is Shank Or Butt Ham Better?
When it comes to choosing between shank and butt ham, there is no clear winner. Both cuts have their own unique characteristics and benefits.
Shank ham is typically associated with baked ham and is the lower half of the leg. It contains the femur bone only, making it a little easier to carve. Shank ham is also more budget-friendly, but the meat tends to dry out more during cooking. However, the shank end provides better flavor and tends to be more versatile in recipes.
On the other hand, butt ham comes from the upper portion of the leg and contains the femur and pelvic bone, which can be challenging to carve around. It is a more tender and flavorful cut of meat and can often be more expensive. The butt end is also leaner, making it lower in calories and saturated fats.
Ultimately, the choice between shank and butt ham comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the convenience and ease of preparation that comes with butt ham, while others prefer the richer flavor and versatility of shank ham.
What Is Shank Ham?
Shank ham is a cut of ham that comes from the lower portion of the pig’s leg, closer to the hoof. It is also known as the “king” of all hams and is typically smoked and cured with spices like pepper. This particular cut of ham comes from the shank bone, which is located at the backside of the animal. The shank ham contains only one leg bone, making it easier to carve, but it tends to dry up faster since the meat is mostly lean. The flavor of shank ham is very rich and versatile, making it a popular choice for many recipes. However, it is important to note that shank ham can take over 40 days to cure properly due to its large size. Overall, shank ham is a budget-friendly option that provides great flavor and versatility in cooking.
What Is Butt Ham?
Butt ham is a cut of meat that comes from the upper portion of the pig’s leg, including the tail and buttocks. This cut contains the femur and pelvic bone, which can make it challenging to carve around. However, despite this difficulty, butt ham is a more tender and flavorful cut of meat compared to shank ham. It is also leaner, making it a healthier option for those watching their calorie and saturated fat intake.
Butt ham is typically sold as a whole cut, and its flavor is slightly milder than that of shank ham. If you enjoy the flavors of lamb, you might find that you love the taste of this cut. However, it is important to note that butt ham can be more expensive than shank ham due to its higher quality and tenderness.
When preparing butt ham, it is important to take care during the cooking process as it contains less fat and requires a steady low heat to be fully cooked. Some people may find that butt ham has more gristle and fat, leading to meat that is too hard to eat and needs to be sliced around. Despite these challenges, many people prefer butt ham for its rich flavor and tenderness.
Differences In Flavor Between Shank And Butt Ham
One of the primary differences between shank and butt ham is the flavor. Shank ham tends to have a more robust and intense flavor, thanks to the bone and fat content. The bone provides the meat with better flavor and texture, while the fat helps keep the meat moist and tender during cooking. The shank end also tends to be more versatile in recipes, as it can be used in everything from soups and stews to sandwiches and salads.
In contrast, butt ham has a more delicate and tender flavor, with less fat and bone content. While some people find this cut to be more flavorful than shank ham, others may find it to be too lean or lacking in depth. However, butt ham is often considered a better choice for those who are watching their calorie or fat intake.
Differences In Texture Between Shank And Butt Ham
One of the main differences between shank and butt ham is their texture. Shank ham tends to be leaner and can dry out more easily during cooking, resulting in a firmer texture. However, the bone-in shank provides better flavor and a denser texture. On the other hand, butt ham is more tender and juicy due to its higher fat content, resulting in a softer texture. The T-shaped bone inside the butt ham can also contribute to a different texture when carving. Overall, the texture of each cut can vary depending on factors such as cooking method and preparation, but these general differences can help guide your decision when choosing between shank and butt ham.
Carving And Serving Shank Ham
Carving and serving shank ham can be a simple process if you follow a few easy steps. First, start with a fully-cooked shank ham, which can be found in most grocery stores. Make sure to check the label to ensure that it is fully cooked.
Begin by placing the ham on a cutting board with the shank bone facing up. Use a sharp carving knife to cut along the top of the bone, loosening the boneless cushion meat. Once the cushion meat is loosened, place it on the cutting board with the carved side down and cut perpendicular slices across the grain of the meat.
Transfer the slices to a serving platter and then turn the remaining meat over, so it is also carved-side down. Remove large boneless sections in the same fashion as before and place them on the cutting board. Cut these sections into perpendicular slices as well.
By cutting perpendicular slices across the grain of the meat, you will maximize its tenderness. When serving, arrange the slices on a platter and garnish with your favorite herbs or fruits.
Shank ham can be a flavorful addition to any meal, whether it’s served as a main course or used in sandwiches or salads. With proper carving and serving techniques, you can enjoy this delicious cut of meat without any hassle.
Carving And Serving Butt Ham
Carving and serving a butt ham can be a little more challenging than a shank ham due to the bones, but with the right technique, it can be done easily. First, place the pre-cut side of the ham down on the cutting board. Carve along the bone to remove the boneless section of meat. This will allow you to slice the meat more easily.
Next, slice the boneless section of meat across the grain and transfer it to a serving platter. To carve the remaining meat from the bone, insert a fork into the meat next to the bone and make horizontal slices towards the bone. This will help you to separate the meat from the bone. Once you have made these slices, transfer them to a serving platter.
It’s important to note that butt ham has a richer flavor due to its fatty meat content. This makes it an excellent choice for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a delicious and flavorful meal.
