Are you familiar with the term “daisy ham”?
If not, don’t worry – you’re not alone. This cut of pork goes by many names, including Boston butt, smoked shoulder butt, and rolled pork shoulder.
Despite its various monikers, daisy ham is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore what exactly a daisy ham is, how it’s prepared, and some tasty recipes to try out.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about this flavorful cut of pork.
What Is A Daisy Ham?
A daisy ham is a boneless and smoked piece of pork that comes from the front shoulder of the pig. It is sometimes referred to as a Boston butt, but this can be misleading as it is not actually from the hind leg or butt. The name “butt” in Boston butt refers to the upper part of the shoulder, which is considered the butt of the shoulder.
The name “daisy ham” comes from the cross-section of the boneless cut, which appears daisy-like in shape at the center. This cut is usually rolled into a fine shape before it is packaged and sold.
Daisy ham has a thick layer of fat on its surface, which is usually trimmed off before cooking. It comes in varying sizes, but a 3-pound daisy ham is suitable for a family-size dinner.
Different Names For Daisy Ham
Daisy ham is also known by several other names depending on the region. Some common alternative names for daisy ham include pork shoulder daisy butt, smoked shoulder butt, shoulder butt, rolled pork shoulder, and cottage ham.
It is important to note that daisy ham is not a brand name, as some people may assume. The prefix “daisy” is simply a description of the cross-section of the boneless cut. This means that if you are having trouble finding daisy ham at your local grocery store or butcher, you can ask for it by one of its other names instead.
Regardless of the name you use, daisy ham is a versatile cut of meat that can be boiled, baked, or smoked. It can be eaten alone as a main dish or used in recipes such as the traditional combination of ham and cabbage. Daisy ham also comes in ready-to-eat packages, making it a convenient option for quick meals or sandwiches.
How Daisy Ham Is Prepared
There are two popular ways to prepare a daisy ham: baking and smoking. Baked daisy hams have a rich flavor, and the fat on the ham cooks crisp in the oven. On the other hand, smoked daisy hams have a smoky flavor that is both savory and a bit salty.
To bake a daisy ham, first preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Trim the ham of excess fat but retain a thin layer, about 1/3 inch, of fat on the outside of the ham. Score it 1/4 inch deep with your knife in a crisscross pattern. This will allow the fat to cook crisp. Rub salt or seasoning into the ham, working it into the knife cuts. Place the ham in a roasting pan. Cook for 15-20 minutes per pound — about an hour and a half for a 3-pound ham. Insert a meat thermometer into the ham. When the ham is finished, the internal temperature should be 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the ham to rest for 10 minutes before you cut it into pieces. Trim the ham of any rind or fat that you do not wish to eat.
To smoke a daisy ham, you will need a smoker and wood chips of your choice. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before use. Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Rub salt or seasoning into the ham, working it into the knife cuts as before. Place the ham in the smoker, and add wood chips according to your smoker’s instructions. Smoke for about 6-8 hours until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat reads 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the ham to rest for 10 minutes before you cut it into pieces.
Cooking Tips For Daisy Ham
Here are some tips for cooking a delicious and flavorful daisy ham:
1. Choose the right size: As mentioned earlier, a 3-pound daisy ham is perfect for a family-size dinner. Make sure to choose a ham that is the right size for your needs.
2. Trim the fat: Daisy ham has a thick layer of fat on its surface, which can be trimmed off before cooking. Retain a thin layer of fat, about 1/3 inch, on the outside of the ham to ensure it cooks crisp.
3. Score the ham: Score the ham 1/4 inch deep with a knife in a crisscross pattern. This will allow the fat to cook crisp and also help the seasoning penetrate the meat.
4. Season well: Rub salt or seasoning into the ham, working it into the knife cuts. You can use any seasoning of your choice, but dried thyme and peppercorns work well with daisy ham.
5. Cook low and slow: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the ham for approximately 15 – 18 minutes per pound until heated through. Do not overheat! The optimum internal temperature should be between 135 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit after reheating.
6. Let it rest: Once the ham is finished cooking, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before carving it into pieces. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the meat tender.
By following these tips, you can cook a delicious daisy ham that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
Delicious Recipes To Try With Daisy Ham
Daisy ham is a versatile and flavorful cut of meat that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are some delicious recipes to try with daisy ham:
1. Slow Cooker Daisy Ham and Lentil Stew: This hearty and comforting stew is perfect for a chilly evening. Simply prepare vegetables and lentils, seasonings, and water in a slow cooker, add the daisy ham, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the ham before serving.
2. New England Boiled Dinner with Daisy Ham: This classic New England dish features daisy ham boiled with cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and turnips. The ham infuses the vegetables with flavor, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
3. Daisy Ham Fried Rice: Cook rice in chicken stock, then cut up the daisy ham and combine with the rice in a wok or large skillet. Add vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions, along with soy sauce and sesame oil for a tasty and easy meal.
4. Daisy Ham and Cheese Quiche: This savory quiche is perfect for brunch or dinner. Combine diced daisy ham with eggs, milk, cheese, and your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Bake in a pie crust until golden brown.
5. Daisy Ham and Bean Soup: This hearty soup is perfect for a cold day. Soak beans overnight, then cook with daisy ham, vegetables like onion and celery, and seasonings like oregano and parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
These recipes are just a few examples of the many delicious ways to enjoy daisy ham. Whether you prefer slow-cooked stews or quick skillet meals, this flavorful cut of meat is sure to please your taste buds.
Health Benefits Of Daisy Ham
Daisy ham is a lean protein that is packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any diet. One of the key nutrients found in daisy ham is selenium, which is essential for reproduction, DNA construction, and defense against infections. In fact, daisy ham can provide up to 76% of the daily value of selenium per 2 ounces (57 grams), depending on the type.
Compared to other meats like poultry and fish, pork products like daisy ham are higher in iron, thiamine, and other B vitamins. While pork may be lower in some nutrients than other red meats like beef, daisy ham still provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. Amino acids are crucial for building proteins and play critical roles in metabolism, gene expression, and cell communication.
In addition to providing essential nutrients like selenium and amino acids, daisy ham contains decent amounts of phosphorus, zinc, and potassium. These minerals help your body produce energy, fight infections, and maintain heart health. Daisy ham is also a rich dietary source of carnosine, choline, and coenzyme Q10 – compounds that aid energy production and cell messaging throughout your body.
It’s important to note that while daisy ham is a healthy protein source, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sodium content. However, by trimming off excess fat before cooking and pairing it with nutrient-rich sides like roasted vegetables or a salad, daisy ham can be part of a balanced and healthy meal.
