If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next special occasion or family meal, a steamship ham might just be the answer.
But what exactly is a steamship ham?
This unique cut of meat is known for its dramatic presentation, with a “frenched” shank bone that serves as a handle for easy carving. Smoked with real hickory wood for superb flavor, the steamship ham is a popular choice for carving stations, buffets, banquets, and other foodservice applications.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes a steamship ham so special and how you can incorporate it into your next meal or event. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about this delicious and impressive cut of meat.
What Is A Steamship Ham?
A steamship ham is a whole ham that has been prepared in a unique way to create an elegant and eye-catching presentation. The ham is typically fresh, not cured or smoked, and is fabricated to expose the shank bone, which is then cleaned and “frenched” to create a handle for easy carving.
The exposed bone and mahogany color of the ham make it a popular choice for carving stations and other foodservice applications where presentation is key. The ham is typically slow-roasted to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meat that is perfect for any occasion.
The History Of The Steamship Ham
The term “steamship ham” is believed to have originated from the early 1900s, when large steamships crossing the Atlantic would serve carved ham to their passengers in a banquet-style setting. These hams were typically larger in size, weighing upwards of 25 pounds, and were prepared with the shank bone exposed and frenched for easy handling.
Over time, the steamship ham became a popular choice for special occasions and holiday meals, as its impressive size and elegant presentation made it a centerpiece for any table. Today, steamship hams are still enjoyed for their unique appearance and delicious flavor, with many variations available including smoked and uncured options.
Despite its popularity, the steamship ham is not without controversy. Some argue that the large size of the ham can lead to uneven cooking and drying out of the meat, while others maintain that the bone-in preparation yields a juicier and more flavorful result.
Regardless of its detractors, the steamship ham remains a beloved tradition for many families and foodservice operations alike, offering a delicious and impressive option for any occasion.
How A Steamship Ham Is Prepared And Cooked
Preparing and cooking a steamship ham is a process that requires attention to detail and patience. First, the ham needs to be trimmed of any excess fat or skin, leaving a layer of fat on top. Then, the ham is scored all over in a diamond pattern, creating shallow cuts about 1/2 inch deep and 1 1/2 inches apart.
Next, a mixture of salt, pepper, and thyme is rubbed all over the ham, making sure to get into all the crevices created by the scoring. The ham is then placed fat-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan and roasted uncovered in an oven preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, the heat is turned down to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and two cups of wine and half a cup of water are poured into the roasting pan. The pan is then loosely tented with aluminum foil, and the ham is roasted for an additional 3 1/2 hours, basting every hour with the pan juices.
To ensure that the ham is fully cooked, a meat thermometer should be used to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the ham. It should read 155 degrees Fahrenheit before removing it from the oven.
Once cooked, the steamship ham should be allowed to rest for 15 to 20 minutes before carving. The pan juices can be used to make a delicious sauce by simmering them with some half-and-half for a few minutes.
Serving Suggestions And Pairings For A Steamship Ham
When it comes to serving a steamship ham, there are many options for pairings and accompaniments that can enhance the flavor and presentation of this elegant dish.
First and foremost, it’s important to consider the wine pairing. Since steamship ham is a rich and flavorful meat, it pairs well with wines that have a touch of sweetness, plenty of acidity, and bold fruit. Some great wine options include Riesling, Moscato, Chenin Blanc, Rosé, Lambrusco, Grenache, and Zinfandel.
In addition to wine, there are many other foods that can complement the flavor of steamship ham. One classic pairing is with eggs, which have a mild character and silky texture that pairs well with the rich taste of the ham. Whether served in a Western omelette or as sunny-side-up eggs with a shot of red-eye gravy, eggs are a popular choice for breakfast or brunch.
Bread is another age-old companion to ham that can help soften its rich taste. A stack of buttermilk biscuits or a couple of slices of seeded rye can be the perfect accompaniment to a steamship ham. Additionally, fruit can provide the requisite sweetness to counteract the saltiness of the ham. Melon pieces or dried figs wrapped in prosciutto taste wonderful and cooked ham is commonly matched with apples or pineapple.
When it comes to condiments and spices, mustard is a popular choice that stands up to ham’s flavor. Mustard powder may be worked into a glaze, and jarred mustard of all kinds may simply be served as a condiment. Mostarda, an Italian fruit jam spiced with mustard seed, is often served with boiled dishes that contain many cuts of meat, including ham.
Finally, cheese is an excellent pairing for steamship ham. Whether it’s shards of Parmesan with prosciutto or Gruyere melted in a luscious croque monsieur, cheese can add an extra layer of flavor and richness to this already delicious dish.
Where To Buy A Steamship Ham And How Much To Expect To Pay
If you’re looking to purchase a steamship ham, there are a few options available to you. One popular choice is Smithfield, which offers a 16-19 lb. steamship ham that includes UPS standard shipping. However, it’s important to note that this product has been discontinued and is no longer available.
Other options for purchasing a steamship ham may include specialty meat markets or online retailers. Prices will vary depending on the size of the ham and the retailer, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $5-$10 per pound.
When purchasing a steamship ham, it’s important to keep in mind that it is a perishable item and must be shipped and stored properly to prevent spoilage. If ordering online, make sure to select a shipping method that will ensure the ham arrives fresh and in good condition.
Tips For Carving And Storing A Steamship Ham
Carving a steamship ham can be a bit intimidating, but with the right tools and technique, it can be a breeze. Here are some tips for carving and storing your steamship ham:
1. Use the right tools: A sharp carving knife and carving fork are essential for carving your steamship ham. Make sure to sharpen your knife before you start to ensure clean and even slices.
2. Carve with the bone up: Keep the bone up when carving your steamship ham. This will make it easier to carve even slices and prevent the bone from getting in the way.
3. Slice against the grain: To ensure tender and juicy slices, always slice against the grain of the meat.
4. Store at room temperature: Unlike other meats, steamship hams do not need to be refrigerated. In fact, refrigeration can actually dry out the meat. Instead, store your ham at room temperature and cover it with a clean cloth to prevent dust from settling on it.
5. Keep it covered: When not in use, cover your steamship ham with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your steamship ham is not only delicious but also beautifully presented.
Frequently Asked Questions About Steamship Hams
If you’re considering serving a steamship ham for your next gathering, you may have some questions about this unique cut of meat. Here are some frequently asked questions about steamship hams:
Q: What is a steamship ham?
A: A steamship ham is a whole ham that has been prepared in a unique way to create an elegant and eye-catching presentation. The ham is typically fresh, not cured or smoked, and is fabricated to expose the shank bone, which is then cleaned and “frenched” to create a handle for easy carving.
Q: How big is a steamship ham?
A: Steamship hams can be quite large, upwards of 25 pounds. They consist of a whole cured and roasted leg, including the top round, bottom round, eye of round, the knuckle and the rump still connected with the shank bone exposed and frenched.
Q: How many people will a steamship ham feed?
A: When it comes to how much ham you should buy for your gathering, think about 3/4 to 1/2 pound per person. A steamship ham can feed upwards of 30 people.
Q: Should I choose bone-in or boneless?
A: Many experts suggest that leaving the bone in will yield a juicier, more flavorful ham. Since the bone isn’t a conductor, the meat takes longer to cook and offers a more even cook. It’s also been noted that the bone’s marrow will release different flavors throughout the cook. Like other bone-in roasts we have researched in the past, leaving your bone in will hold the meat together better giving you a better shape and overall presentation.
Q: How should I cook a steamship ham?
A: Steamship hams are typically slow-roasted to perfection. You can season it with your preferred spices and herbs before roasting it in the oven at around 325°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Q: Can I order one without decoration?
A: Steamship hams are typically served decorated with glaze, pineapple, and cherry. If you prefer to have it without decoration, it’s best to check with your supplier if they can accommodate your request.
Q: Are steamship hams gluten-free?
A: Our research shows that steamship hams are typically gluten-free. However, if you have any reservations about having any gluten, it’s best to check with your supplier to ensure they can give you a 100% guarantee.