Are you planning a big gathering or party and wondering what to serve as the main dish? Look no further than the versatile and delicious buffet ham.
Whether it’s a holiday like Easter or Christmas, or just a casual get-together, a buffet ham is the perfect centerpiece for any occasion. But what exactly is a buffet ham?
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of buffet hams available and their unique features and benefits. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about this crowd-pleasing favorite.
What Is A Buffet Ham?
A buffet ham is a type of ham that is specifically designed to be served at large gatherings or events. It is typically a boneless ham that has been fully cooked and sliced for easy serving.
One of the key features of a buffet ham is its uniform shape, which allows for consistent portions and high slicing yield. This makes it ideal for serving to a large group of people, as it ensures that everyone gets an equal amount.
Buffet hams also come in a variety of flavors and styles. Some are hardwood smoked for an old-fashioned flavor, while others are water-added for a juicy taste and tender bite. Some are made with single muscle products, while others are made with multiple muscles stuffed into a casing.
Different Types Of Buffet Hams
There are several different types of buffet hams available on the market, each with its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles.
One type of buffet ham is the HORMEL® Supreme Hardwood Smoked Flat Buffet Ham. This ham is made with cushion, flank, and knuckle muscles that are stuffed into a fibrous casing and smoked on a press rack. The result is a uniform oval shape that provides a high slicing yield and consistent portions. This ham is naturally hardwood smoked, giving it a rich and smoky flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Another type of buffet ham is the Cobblestreet Market® deli ham, which is a single muscle product found in the Distinctions tier. This ham is hardwood smoked for an old-fashioned flavor and has excellent texture and marbling. It is perfect for deli cases and upscale buffets, and can be sliced thinly for sandwiches or cubed for salads.
For those looking for a more versatile ham option, the Cobblestreet Market® Originals tier offers a hardwood smoked, old-fashioned pit ham. This teardrop shaped ham is well defined with three muscles and holds its shape well when cut in half lengthwise. It is perfect for baking and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as ham with caramelized apples or sautéed slices with onion cider mustard sauce.
Finally, the Cobblestreet Market® Foundations tier offers a 35 percent ham and water product buffet ham. This ham is made with pork knuckle meat pressed into a casing and cured to perfection. It has a consistent and uniform texture throughout, making it great for thin or thick slicing. This ham is perfect for use in salads or as a savory addition to mixed greens.
How To Choose The Right Buffet Ham For Your Occasion
When choosing a buffet ham for your occasion, there are a few factors to consider. First, calculate the amount of ham you will need based on the number of guests you will be serving. As a general rule, plan for 1/2 pound of boneless ham per person or 3/4 pound of bone-in ham per person.
Next, consider the flavor and style of the ham. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, boiled or cooked ham is typically the cheapest choice. This type of ham is made from compressed pork and is safe to eat. It is perfect for easy sandwiches or recipes like ham and bean soup.
If you want a more traditional flavor, look for a hardwood smoked buffet ham. This type of ham is slow-smoked over hardwood chips for a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes and green bean casserole.
Finally, consider the shape and size of the ham. A boneless buffet ham is typically easier to slice and serve, while a bone-in ham may offer more flavor and juiciness. Choose a ham with a uniform shape to ensure consistent portions and high slicing yield.
By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect buffet ham for your occasion and impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-serve meal.
Tips For Preparing And Serving Buffet Ham
Preparing and serving buffet ham can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right techniques, it can be a delicious and easy addition to any gathering. Here are some tips for preparing and serving buffet ham:
1. Choose the right type of ham: When selecting a buffet ham, consider the flavor and texture you want to achieve. Some hams are more salty or smoky than others, while others may be more tender or juicy.
2. Let the ham come to room temperature: Before serving, it’s best to let the ham come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help bring out its natural flavors and make it easier to slice.
3. Slice the ham thinly: Because buffet hams are typically quite salty and flavorful, it’s best to slice them thinly to avoid overwhelming your guests’ palates. Use a sharp knife or an electric slicer for even slices.
4. Glaze the ham: Adding a glaze to your buffet ham can help enhance its flavor and give it an attractive appearance. Try using a mixture of honey, mustard, and brown sugar for a sweet and tangy glaze.
5. Serve with complementary sides: Buffet ham pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or macaroni and cheese. Consider offering a range of options to accommodate different dietary preferences.
6. Keep the ham moist: To prevent your buffet ham from becoming dry, consider placing it in a chafing dish or slow cooker to keep it warm and moist throughout your event.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your buffet ham is a crowd-pleasing addition to any gathering.
Creative Recipes Using Leftover Buffet Ham
If you have leftover buffet ham from a large gathering or event, there are plenty of creative recipes you can make with it. Here are a few ideas:
1. Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole: Add diced ham to a breakfast casserole with eggs, cheese, and your favorite vegetables for a hearty and delicious morning meal.
2. Ham and Potato Soup: Use leftover ham to make a comforting and flavorful soup with potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions.
3. Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice: Combine diced ham with cooked rice, pineapple chunks, scrambled eggs, and soy sauce for a sweet and savory fried rice dish.
4. Ham and Broccoli Quiche: Add diced ham and steamed broccoli to a quiche filling with eggs, cheese, milk, and spices for a tasty brunch or dinner option.
5. Ham and Swiss Stromboli: Roll leftover ham and Swiss cheese into pizza dough and bake for a crispy and satisfying meal or snack.
No matter how you use it, leftover buffet ham can add flavor and protein to a variety of dishes. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy!
Conclusion: Why Buffet Ham Is The Perfect Main Dish For Your Next Gathering
If you’re planning a gathering or event and looking for the perfect main dish, buffet ham should be at the top of your list. Not only is it easy to serve and portion out, but it can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for any buffet.
Unlike other main entrees that may require different cooking temperatures or preferences, buffet ham is a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy. Plus, with the option to choose from a variety of flavors and styles, you can customize your buffet ham to fit your specific taste preferences.
When planning your next gathering, consider adding buffet ham to the menu. Your guests will appreciate the delicious and easy-to-serve option, and you’ll appreciate the convenience of a low-maintenance main dish.
