Holiday hams, ham-and-cheese sandwiches, ham croquettes, ham-and-cheese omelets. All of them are tasty, and they all have one thing in common: ham! This meat can be used in a lot of different ways, so whether you want something sweet or savory, you’ll enjoy it. Fans of ham can’t help but wonder, though: what kind of meat does ham always come from?
Ham is a type of cured and processed meat that is cherished by people all over the world. It lends a distinctive flavor to sandwiches, breakfasts, main courses and more. But despite ham’s popularity, there is still some mystery surrounding which animal it comes from. Let’s explore the origins of this iconic meat.
The Most Common Source – Pork
The majority of ham sold and consumed worldwide comes from pork. Specifically, ham is made from the leg of a pig that has been cured, smoked, or both. The curing and smoking process both preserve the meat and impart extra flavor.
Pork legs contain a high amount of fat marbled throughout the muscle, which keeps the ham juicy and enhances the flavor during processing The meaty hind leg also provides plenty of portion sizes to produce boneless or bone-in hams
Some of the most popular types of pork ham include:
- Honey ham
- Black forest ham
- Prosciutto ham
- Serrano ham
- Virginia ham
- Smithfield ham
Pork is by far the most common source of ham around the world. The only major exception is in certain religious faiths that prohibit pork consumption.
Other Animals Used for Ham
While pork is the primary source ham can also come from other animals. Here are some of the other creatures that ham can be made from
Turkey – Turkey ham is growing in popularity as a leaner alternative to pork ham. The thighs of the turkey are cured and smoked in a similar fashion to traditional ham. It provides a very mild flavor.
Chicken – Chicken ham is made by reconstituting chopped chicken meat into the familiar ham shape. It is firmer and drier than pork ham with a delicate taste.
Goose – Goose ham comes from the thighs of geese that have been brined and smoked for preservation and additional flavor. It has a rich, meaty taste.
Duck – Like goose, duck ham originates from the leg meat of ducks cured in brine and then smoked. It has a bold, gamey duck flavor.
Beef – Beef ham is more common in Europe and uses rear leg cuts of cows. The beef is wet-cured and then smoked for intense flavor.
Venison – Venison ham is made from the hind legs of deer. It has a lean texture and a sweet, earthy taste.
What Makes Ham Different from Other Cured Meats?
There are a few key differences that distinguish ham from other cured meat products:
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Ham is exclusively from the hind leg of the animal, while other cured meats like bacon or pastrami can come from other areas.
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Hams are cured and smoked for preservation. Some other cured meats may only be salted or dried.
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Ham is cooked before eating. Some cured meats like salami and prosciutto are eaten raw.
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Ham has a unique flavor imparted by curing ingredients like salt, sugar, and smoke.
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Ham often has a long curing time to fully develop its signature flavor, while other cured meats have a shorter process.
So while ham may seem similar to other cured and processed meats, it has defining characteristics that set it apart.
A Long History and Tradition
The practice of curing pork legs to produce ham dates back thousands of years as a way to preserve meat before refrigeration. Some of the earliest archeological evidence of ham production has been found in ancient Chinese and Egyptian societies.
In Europe, ham became a traditional specialty in many regions. Dry curing and smoking hams originated as a food preservation technique but also imparted delicious new flavors. Regions like Spain, Italy and Germany became famous for their local ham delicacies that are still prized today.
Ham grew into a cultural icon with importance at holidays and special occasions. The rich heritage and history surrounding ham is part of what makes it such a treasured food today.
Health Considerations with Ham
Like many cured and processed meats, ham is high in sodium, which is used for preserving and seasoning. Excess sodium intake has been linked to high blood pressure, so moderation is key. Choosing lower-sodium ham varieties is recommended.
Ham can also contain preservatives like nitrites, which may cause health concerns when consumed frequently or in high amounts. Going for all-natural, preservative-free ham is ideal if available.
On the positive side, ham supplies protein, B vitamins, zinc, iron, and other minerals. Just be mindful of portions when incorporating ham into your diet.
Alternatives Beyond Traditional Ham
For those looking to avoid pork for dietary restrictions or who want a fresher, less processed option, there are alternatives:
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Prosciutto is dry-cured, unsmoked ham that offers a delicate texture and flavor.
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Roast pork leg is essentially unprocessed “fresh ham” that you can season and cook as desired.
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Turkey or chicken thigh meat can be oven-roasted and seasoned to mimic ham flavor.
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Tofurky offers vegan/vegetarian faux ham slices and roasts for plant-based diets.
So while traditional smoked pork ham may be the product most people think of, there are diverse options for anyone interested in a fresh take on this timeless favorite.
Mystery Solved!
While pork is by far the most common source, ham can come from a number of different animals. Underneath the variations, ham has some defining traits like using the hind leg, curing, smoking, and cooking before eating that distinguish it from other cured meats. With a long, rich history and cultural significance around the world, ham continues to be a cherished kitchen staple.
Why Do We Call It Ham?
If you say the word “ham” over and over, it stops sounding like English. But in fact, the word does come from English origins. The word comes from the Old English word hom, which means the back of the knee or its “hollow” part. It wasn’t until the 1400s that the word “ham” was used to describe the cut of meat. After that, things only got better!
What Part of the Pig Does Ham Come From?
Anyone who has seen a whole ham hanging in a butcher shop may have thought it looked like a big wooden club. If the ham hasn’t been cut yet, you may have even seen a pair of trotters at the end. That’s because ham is usually made from the pig’s back leg. Through the pig’s life, those leg muscles are used a lot, which is where all that dense meat comes from.
How Ham Is Made from a Whole Pig — Prime Time
FAQ
Is ham from a pig or cow?
Which animal is bacon?
Is ham a lamb or pork?
Is ham pig butt?
Which animal’s meat ham comes from?
However, despite its popularity, many people are still unaware of which animal’s meat ham comes from. While most commonly associated with pork, ham can also come from other animals such as beef, chicken, and turkey.
Where does Ham come from?
Ham is a meat product that comes from the hind leg of a pig. The pig’s leg is cured and smoked to create the distinctive flavor and texture that is associated with ham. Ham is a common ingredient in many dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and breakfast items. It is popular all over the world and has many different varieties and preparations.
Is Ham a type of pork?
Ham is a cut of pork. However, not all pork is ham. Pork is an umbrella term, referring to all of the various cuts of meat from the domesticated pig, particularly the ones that are sold raw. Therefore, while ham is technically a cut of pork, the terms are not interchangeable.
What makes ham different from other meats?
Ham is a type of meat that has its roots deeply entrenched in European cuisine. What sets ham apart from other animal meats is the curing process it undergoes. Often made from pork, ham is a cut from the thigh, which is then preserved with salt and then smoked or dried. This curing process is what gives ham its unique flavor and texture.