Where to Find the Best Country Ham in Richmond, VA

As a proud resident of Richmond, Virginia, I love exploring all the culinary delights our city has to offer. And when it comes to iconic Southern foods, few things compare to a perfectly cured country ham. If you’re looking to experience this distinctive regional specialty for yourself, Richmond has plenty of options to choose from. In this guide, I’ll share the top places to buy country ham in Richmond, VA and help you locate the good stuff!

A Primer on Country Ham

Before diving into the where, let’s cover the what. Country ham refers to a dry-cured and smoked variety of ham traditionally produced in the Southern United States. The curing process uses salt, nitrates, and sometimes sugar and aged for extended periods, from months to years. This preserves the meat and concentrates the flavor without refrigeration.

The end result is salty, funky, and rich – a far cry from the milder “city ham” you find in the supermarket. The dry aging also gives country ham a dense, chewy texture. Most country hams require soaking before eating to desalinate them. The long curing time and labor-intensive process make true country ham a gourmet specialty.

Where to Buy Country Ham in Richmond

Grocery Stores

Several grocery stores in Richmond stock country ham, making it easy to pick one up during your regular shopping. Here are some good options:

• Ellwood Thompson’s – This local organic market has a nice selection of country hams, including premium O.H. McCormick brand hams cured for 2 years.

• Kroger – National chains like Kroger will carry country ham seasonally around the holidays. Check the deli counter.

• Wegmans – Upscale grocery store Wegmans has in-house country hams from Pennsylvania available.

• Whole Foods – Specialty food mecca Whole Foods sells Edwards brand Virginia country hams

Butcher Shops & Charcuteries

For the finest quality and selection, visit one of Richmond’s butcher shops or charcuteries specializing in artisanal meats. A few of my favorites:

• Belmont Butchery – With an entire case dedicated to country ham, they have a huge variety from near and far Try the rare aged 4-year Cumberland ham

• Olli Salumeria – This Italian-style charcuterie sources fantastic country hams from across Virginia and the South. Pick up some prosciutto while you’re there!

• Southampton Butcher – At this whole animal butcher, you can get country ham sliced to order right off the leg.

• Stella’s Grocery – In addition to a nice country ham selection, Stella’s makes tasty sandwiches featuring country ham.

Direct from Country Ham Producers

For the best quality and value, consider purchasing directly from one of Virginia’s country ham producers who age and cure their hams on-site.

• S. Wallace Edwards & Sons – One of Virginia’s most acclaimed country ham companies. Stop by their Surry, VA facility to buy direct.

• Meherrin River Farms – Tour the curing barns and pick up a ham at this family farm’s store in Emporia, VA.

• Newsom’s A.H. Ham – This family-run business sells their famous Piedmont hams at their store in Princeton, NC.

Things to Know When Buying Country Ham

Wherever you purchase, look for indicators of quality and authenticity. Seek out hams labeled with their cure length, like 2 years or 3 years. Longer is generally better. The ham should have a flexed, bent shape from hanging to cure. Look for any quality certifications from Virginia’s Finest program or the American Country Ham Association.

Opt for a whole ham over pre-sliced whenever possible. Sliced ham loses moisture quickly. Whole hams usually come with basic heating and carving instructions. Prices range widely based on factors like brand, age, size, and whether the ham is bone-in or boneless. A premium aged country ham can cost $100 or more.