Finding and Enjoying An Authentic Southern Maryland Stuffed Ham

As a lover of unique regional food traditions, I’m always seeking out specialty ingredients that capture the flavors of a local cuisine. One such item that has captivated me recently is the Southern Maryland stuffed ham. This delicacy has its roots in the farmhouses of Southern Maryland and involves a cured, smoked ham stuffed with greens, seasonings and other regional ingredients. The result is a mouthwatering centerpiece ham bursting with the flavors of Southern Maryland. But where can you actually buy an authentic stuffed ham today?

In this guide, I’ll share advice on locating and purchasing a genuine Southern Maryland stuffed ham along with tips on how to serve and savor this incredible dish. Let’s rediscover this tradition and bring a taste of Southern Maryland to our dinner tables!

Seek Out Specialty Suppliers of Stuffed Hams

To find an authentic Southern Maryland stuffed ham made according to tradition, you’ll need to seek out specialty meat producers and farms located in the region. Here are some top places to purchase:

• Brandy Farms – This family farm has been hand-stuffing hams since the 1950s using time-honored techniques Their hams are available for nationwide shipping

• Yoders Country Market – A popular Amish market in Southern Maryland offering fresh stuffed hams daily. You can purchase whole or half hams.

• Surratt’s Stuffed Ham Company – Specializing in stuffed hams since 1985 using founder Nancy Surratt’s family recipe. Hams available online.

• Southern Maryland Meats – Butcher shop selling certified stuffed hams from local farms. Retail and wholesale options.

• Morgan Farms Frozen Stuffed Ham – This farm ships their hams across the U.S. Choose boneless or bone-in.

If you live in the region, farmers markets are also a good option for finding small-batch stuffed hams from local producers.

What Makes Them Unique?

So what sets the Southern Maryland stuffed ham apart from a traditional cured ham? Here are some of the factors that define this specialty item:

• Regional Ingredients – The stuffing contains greens, vegetables, and seasonings grown on local farms. This imparts distinct flavors.

• Hole Cut with Sugar Cure – The bone-in ham has a hole cut into the thigh and is cured with a special sweet brine before stuffing.

• Hand-Stuffed Technique – The farmer manually packs the stuffing into the ham rather than using machinery. This ensures it is firmly packed.

• Hickory Smoked – The stuffed ham is smoked over hickory wood for up to a week to absorb the wood flavors.

• Simmered in Water – Gently simmering makes the ham tender and allows the flavors to permeate.

• Bone Adds Flavor – The presence of the femur bone enhances the taste. Boneless options use less traditional methods.

It’s the careful attention to traditional techniques that make the Southern Maryland stuffed ham a truly unique regional specialty.

How to Cook and Serve for the Best Flavor

Once you’ve purchased an authentic Southern Maryland stuffed ham, you’ll want to showcase its distinctive flavors to the fullest. Here are some tips:

• Bake low and slow. Cook at 300°F for approximately 20 minutes per pound. Basting helps keep it moist.

• Slice in advance of serving. Letting it rest makes it easier to carve thin slices.

• Focus on the stuffing. Scoop out and highlight the stuffing as you serve since it’s the star attraction.

• Pair with mustard or horseradish. The tangy kick balances the richness of the ham.

• Offer buttery biscuits. Flaky biscuits soaked in ham juices are divine.

• Make sandwiches with leftovers. Pile thin slices on bread with mustard for an easy meal.

• Use in other dishes. Dice up leftovers to mix into casseroles, pasta, soups and more.

However you serve it, a Southern Maryland stuffed ham is sure to be the mouthwatering centerpiece of any meal.

Order Authentic Stuffed Hams for Delivery

One of the easiest ways to incorporate Southern Maryland stuffed ham into your life is to order directly from specialty suppliers that ship nationwide.

Brandy Farms is my top choice for ordering authentic, high-quality stuffed hams right to your door. Their family has perfected the art of hand-stuffing hams for over 60 years. You can choose bone-in or boneless, as well as whole hams or half hams to suit your needs.

Other excellent mail order options include Surratt’s Stuffed Ham Company and Morgan Farms Stuffed Hams. Thanks to modern freezing methods, you can enjoy ham stuffed with the flavors of Southern Maryland no matter where you live.

Host a Traditional Southern Maryland Ham Dinner

Once you’ve tasted an authentic Southern Maryland stuffed ham, you may be inspired to build an entire meal around this delicious regional specialty. Why not transport guests to Southern Maryland with a tradition-filled dinner?

You can re-create the look by garnishing the ham with flowering kale or collard greens – both staple veggies in local stuffed hams. Bake the ham low and slow until fork tender and infused with smoky, savory juices. Offer tangy mustard, biscuits, and local vegetables like braised cabbage on the side.

Share fun facts about Southern Maryland ham history and traditions as you carve the impressive ham at the table for guests. Having the bone visible makes for a dramatic presentation. Finally, be sure to highlight the stuffing as you serve each portion.

With some creativity and a delicious Southern Maryland stuffed ham as the centerpiece, you can bring the tastes of regional America to your own kitchen. Your guests will remember the incredible flavors in every bite.