What is Toupie Ham? A Complete Guide to This Unique Cut of Pork

Toupie ham is a lesser-known cut of pork that offers big flavor and tenderness when cooked properly If you’ve been wondering “what is toupie ham?” – you’ve come to the right place. In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this unique type of ham.

What is a Toupie Ham?

A toupie ham is a specific cut of meat taken from the top round section or “muscle” of the pig’s hind leg. It’s sometimes referred to as a “pea ham” or “top round ham.”

Unlike many other cuts of pork, toupie ham is completely boneless. It has a rounded shape and compact size that makes it perfect for feeding smaller groups and families. Toupie hams usually weigh between 3 to 8 pounds.

The meat has a milder flavor compared to other ham varieties. When cooked correctly, it is incredibly tender and juicy. The compact shape also means less waste compared to hams with a bone.

What Makes Toupie Ham Unique?

There are a few characteristics that set toupie ham apart from other types of ham

• Boneless – Toupie ham contains no bone, making it easier to carve and serve Other bone-in hams can be trickier to slice neatly

• Uniform shape – The rounded, compact shape of a toupie ham allows for even cooking. Irregular bone-in hams may cook unevenly.

• Tender texture – Coming from the top round, this cut has a naturally tender and fine-grained texture when cooked properly.

• Mild flavor – While still distinctly “hammy”, toupie ham has a more subtle and mildly sweet taste compared to hams like prosciutto.

• Fewer leftovers – The smaller size produces less leftover ham that requires storage. It’s a more manageable amount of meat for smaller households.

Where Does Toupie Ham Come From on the Pig?

As mentioned earlier, toupie ham is cut from the top round section of the pig’s hind leg. This is the upper back portion of the leg above the rump.

When the leg is fabricated, the top round is removed as a single, cone-shaped muscle. This compact shape lends itself perfectly to being cured and cooked as a boneless ham.

The adjacent muscles low on the leg, like the sirloin, are often sold as roasts rather than being cured into ham. Meanwhile, the shank end contains the femur bone and is used for bone-in ham.

How is Toupie Ham Prepared and Sold?

Toupie ham undergoes a specialized curing and smoking process to develop its signature flavor, moisture, and pink color. Here’s an overview of how it’s prepared:

• Curing – The pork is injected with a brine solution or dry-cured using salt and nitrites. This imparts flavor and preserves the meat.

• Smoking – Many toupie hams are smoked over low heat, which enhances flavor and cooks the meat gently.

• Aging – Some hams are aged for extended periods, concentrating the flavor. Aging may occur before or after smoking.

• Packaging – Once fully cured and smoked, toupie hams are vacuum-sealed to lock in freshness.

Toupie ham is primarily sold pre-cooked, meaning it just requires gentle reheating rather than full-on cooking. You’ll find it vacuum-packed at grocery stores and online retailers. Prices range from $2-4 per pound based on the brand.

How to Cook a Toupie Ham

Cooking toupie ham is simple since it comes fully cooked and ready to eat. Here are some tips:

• Oven – Bake at 325°F for 10-15 minutes per pound until warmed through. Glaze and tent with foil if desired.

• Grill – Cook over indirect medium heat, rotating frequently, for about 10 minutes per pound.

• Sous vide – For the most tender results, cook 1-2 hours at 135°F before searing.

• Slice – Carve into thin, uniform slices across the grain.

• Serving suggestions – Pair with scalloped potatoes, pineapple rings, roasted veggies, and sweet glazes.

The mild taste of toupie ham makes it highly versatile. It works well in breakfast skillets, sandwiches, pasta bakes, soups, and more. Leftovers can even be diced up for omelets or casseroles.

Buying and Storing Toupie Ham

When shopping for toupie ham, look for products with clear ingredient labels and no artificial preservatives. The meat should have a bright pink hue without dry or brown spots.

For storage, keep refrigerated for up to 7 days once opened. Tightly wrap cut portions in plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, slice and freeze for 2-3 months.

High-quality toupie ham offers great convenience, requiring only quick cooking with minimal preparation or carving. Its versatility and tender texture make it a smart choice for everyday meals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toupie Ham

Still have some questions? Here are answers to some common toupie ham FAQs:

What’s the difference between toupie ham and other types of ham?

Toupie ham comes from a specific part of the pig’s hind leg, giving it a rounded shape and tender meat. It also has a milder taste compared to strongly flavored hams like prosciutto.

Is toupie ham already cooked?

Yes, toupie ham is sold pre-cooked so it just needs to be gently reheated before eating. You don’t have to fully roast or bake it from raw.

How can you tell when toupie ham is done cooking?

Check for an internal temperature of 140°F. The meat should be warmed throughout and have a slightly pink, juicy appearance. Avoid overcooking into gray, dry meat.

What’s the best way to glaze a toupie ham?

For easy glazing, brush on your glaze of choice during the last 15 minutes of cooking so it can caramelize. Try pineapple juice, jams, chutneys, honey, or spiced sauces.

Can you eat toupie ham cold?

Absolutely! High-quality toupie ham has a great texture and flavor when served chilled in sandwiches, antipasto platters, and salads.

Is there a bone in toupie ham?

No, toupie ham is distinct for being a boneless cut of meat. This makes it much easier to carve and serve.

For Juicy, Tender Meals, Try Toupie Ham!

If you’re looking for a foolproof, fuss-free cut of meat to add to your dinner rotation, toupie ham is a great choice. With its mild pork flavor, boneless convenience, and easy cooking method, toupie ham can level up sandwiches, breakfasts, soups, and more. Now that you know what makes this unique ham so special, it’s time to pick one up and dig in!