Looking for a new way to enjoy ham? Look no further than smoked ham shanks! In this blog, I will share with you the smoked ham shanks recipe that is extremely delicious. These flavorful cuts of meat are perfect for those who enjoy indulging in hearty and satisfying dishes. Smoked to perfection, these ham shanks are a delicious addition to any meal, whether you’re serving them up as a main course or using them to add flavor to soups and stews.
Smoked ham shanks are a Southern comfort food classic that has been enjoyed for generations. These meaty cuts of ham are slow-cooked and smoked to perfection, resulting in a rich and savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, smoked ham shanks are an easy and delicious dish that anyone can make.
In addition to their delicious flavor and versatility, smoked ham shanks are also a great source of protein. They are a great way to add some variety to your diet and can be a healthy and satisfying option for meat lovers. Plus, they are relatively easy to prepare and cook, making them a great option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
How To Make Smoked Ham Shanks
One of the great things about smoked ham shanks is that they are incredibly versatile. They can be cooked in a variety of ways, from roasting in the oven to slow cooking in a crockpot or pressure cooker. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty and flavorful dinner or a comforting bowl of soup, smoked ham shanks are a perfect choice.
Ingredients To Make Smoked Ham Shanks
- smoked ham shank 1 – 1 3/4 to 2 pound
- butter 2 tablespoons
- olive oil 2 tablespoons
- chicken stock 32 ounces
- peeled and cut in quarters 2 onions
- cut in chunks 2 carrots
- 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
- garlic peeled and smashed 4 cloves
- dark red kidney beans, 1 – 15 ounce
- pinto beans, 1 – 15 ounce
- cooked white rice 4 cups
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step By Step Instructions To Make Smoked Ham Shanks
Step1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Step2
Add butter and olive oil to a large, oven-proof pot with a lid, such as a Dutch oven, over medium-high heat until melted.
Step3
Add onions, celery, and carrots, season lightly with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are lightly browned.
Step4
Add garlic and cook, stirring often, for an additional 2 minutes.
Step5
Add the ham shank to the pot and pour in chicken stock, season with black pepper and a pinch of salt.
Step6
Bring to a low boil, cover, and place in the oven. Bake at 350 degrees for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is fork-tender and falls off the bone.
Step7
Remove the pork from the pan and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step8
Meanwhile, strain the vegetables from the stock and return the stock to the pot.
Step9
Add the beans and rice and bring to a simmer.
Step10
Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper as needed, keeping in mind that the ham is quite salty.
Step11
Remove the ham from the bones and chop or shred it with two forks.
Step12
Place the rice on four plates and top each serving with an equal amount of chopped ham.
Step13
Serve immediately.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a large oven-proof pot with a lid, like a Dutch oven, to make this dish.
- Don’t skip browning the vegetables, as it adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Be mindful of the salt content, as the ham is already quite salty. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- If you have leftovers, store the ham and rice separately to prevent the rice from getting too soggy. Reheat the ham in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
FAQs:
Q: What is the difference between smoked ham shanks and regular ham?
A: Smoked ham shanks are typically cut from the lower part of the leg and have a slightly different texture and flavor than regular ham. They are also smoked, which adds a unique flavor profile to the meat.
Q: Can I freeze smoked ham shanks?
A: Yes, you can freeze smoked ham shanks. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. They will keep for up to 6 months in the freezer.
Q: What are some serving suggestions for smoked ham shanks?
A: Smoked ham shanks can be served as a main dish alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. They also make a great addition to soups and stews, adding a meaty and smoky flavor to the dish.
More Amazing Recipes
- Mock Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
- Crescent Sausage Bites Recipe
- Smoking Summer Sausage Recipe
- Perigourdine Sauce Recipe
Conclusions
In conclusion, smoked ham shanks are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying main course or a flavorful addition to soups and stews, smoked ham shanks are a great option. Not only do they taste great, but they also provide a good source of protein and can be a healthy addition to your diet.
With the easy-to-follow recipe provided above and some simple tips and tricks, anyone can make a delicious batch of smoked ham shanks in their own kitchen. So why not try something new and add smoked ham shanks to your meal rotation today?
Smoked Ham Shanks Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 – 1 3/4 to 2 pound smoked ham shank
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 32 ounces chicken stock
- 2 onions peeled and cut in quarters
- 2 carrots cut in chunks
- 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
- 4 cloves garlic peeled and smashed
- 1 – 15 ounce dark red kidney beans
- 1 – 15 ounce pinto beans
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Add butter and olive oil to a large, oven-proof pot with a lid, such as a Dutch oven, over medium-high heat until melted.
- Add onions, celery, and carrots, season lightly with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are lightly browned.
- Add garlic and cook, stirring often, for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the ham shank to the pot and pour in chicken stock, season with black pepper and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a low boil, cover, and place in the oven. Bake at 350 degrees for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is fork-tender and falls off the bone.
- Remove the pork from the pan and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, strain the vegetables from the stock and return the stock to the pot.
- Add the beans and rice and bring to a simmer.
- Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper as needed, keeping in mind that the ham is quite salty.
- Remove the ham from the bones and chop or shred it with two forks.
- Place the rice on four plates and top each serving with an equal amount of chopped ham.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use a large oven-proof pot with a lid, like a Dutch oven, to make this dish.
- Don’t skip browning the vegetables, as it adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Be mindful of the salt content, as the ham is already quite salty. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- If you have leftovers, store the ham and rice separately to prevent the rice from getting too soggy. Reheat the ham in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
