Cooked Ham – Juicy Meat Enjoyment

Cooked ham is one of the cooked cured products. A distinction is made between shoulder ham, which comes from the shoulder of the pig, and ham cut from the leg. However, the production is identical: the meat is inoculated with a curing solution. This procedure speeds up the curing process and gives the ham its typical reddish colour. A liquid seasoning is then injected into the meat and the meat subjected to a massage process. Meat protein is released from the surface, which coagulates during the subsequent cooking process (similar to the albumen of a hen’s egg when it is cooked) and thus causes the binding between the pieces of meat. The ham is then placed in molds and cooked at around 70 degrees Celsius. Depending on the region, a short smoking follows for a special taste.

Origin

The production of ham arose thousands of years ago from the need to preserve fresh meat by curing, smoking and air drying. The Celts are said to have preserved their meat in this way.

Season/purchase

Cooked ham is available all year round.

Taste

The reddish flesh of the cooked shoulder of ham is somewhat firmer and has coarser fibers than that of the shoulder of ham. Both types of ham are juicy due to the high water content.

Use

The juicy cooked ham is well suited for casseroles and gratins or as a filling for hearty pancakes and roulades. It is also used as a coating for various dishes or as a topping on fresh bread. Try our ham rolls, for example.

Storage/shelf life

Due to the relatively high water content, cooked ham perishes quickly and easily. Once opened, it only keeps for a few days and should be eaten as soon as possible.

Nutritional value/active ingredients

With approx. 20 g, of cooked ham provides plenty of protein, no carbohydrates, around 3 g of fat, and 183 kcal / 768 kJ per 100 g. It is also worth mentioning the content of vitamins B1, B2, niacin, B6, B12, and zinc. Vitamin B1, like B2, B6, and B12, ensures normal energy metabolism. Niacin contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system and zinc is responsible for maintaining normal skin.