Are you looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next special occasion? Look no further than the savory smoky flavor of a well-prepared smoked ham shank. This versatile cut of meat can be used in a variety of recipes, from hearty stews and soups to sweet and sticky glazes. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just want to add some excitement to your everyday meals, we’ve got you covered with these 18 savory smoked ham shank recipes.
From classic comfort foods like slow-cooked smoky ham and white bean soup to global-inspired dishes like Caribbean-style ham and mango salsa, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep work, leaving you more time to focus on the things that matter most – like spending quality time with loved ones and enjoying the fruits of your labor.
Slow-Cooked Smoked Ham Shank with Honey Glaze
Transform a smoked ham shank into a tender, sweet, and savory masterpiece with this easy slow-cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. Place the smoked ham shank in the slow cooker.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon.
4. Pour the honey glaze over the ham shank.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Tips:
– You can adjust the amount of honey glaze to your liking.
– For a thicker glaze, simmer it in a saucepan over medium heat until desired consistency is reached.
– Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Smoked Ham Shank and White Bean Soup
Smoked Ham Shank and White Bean Soup Recipe
This hearty soup combines the rich flavor of smoked ham with creamy white beans, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Remove any excess fat from the ham shank and place it in a large Dutch oven or pot.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook over medium-high heat until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the cannellini beans, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Braised Smoked Ham Shank with Root Vegetables
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the ham shank until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add sliced carrots, parsnips, and potato to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Add chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Return ham shank to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
8. Braise for 2-3 hours or until ham is tender and easily shredded.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Cabbage Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a cold winter evening. This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked ham with the sweetness of caramelized cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ham pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add more oil if necessary, then add the onions and garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, caraway seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add the browned ham back into the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern-Style Smoked Ham Shank Collard Greens
A classic Southern comfort food, these collard greens are slow-cooked with a smoked ham shank and a hint of vinegar to create a rich, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked ham shank
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the collard greens, chicken broth, smoked ham shank, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to the pot.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Braise the greens for 2-3 hours or until tender and flavorful.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Ham Shank Jambalaya with Creole Spices
This hearty one-pot dish combines the rich flavors of smoked ham shank, savory Creole spices, and tender rice. Perfect for a comforting meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked ham shank
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning blend (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the smoked ham shank, Creole seasoning blend, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the ham and spices.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Smoked Ham Shank and Lentil Cassoulet
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of smoked ham with the humble simplicity of lentils. This recipe is perfect for a chilly winter’s day or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank, bone-in
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Place the smoked ham shank on top of the lentil mixture.
5. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2 hours, or until the lentils are tender and the ham is easily shredded with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Smoked Ham Shank with Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze
Transform a humble ham shank into a sweet and savory showstopper with this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh pineapple chunks (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Place the ham shank in the smoker, fat side up.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and black pepper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the ham shank every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours, then every hour thereafter until the ham reaches your desired level of caramelization (about 4-5 hours total).
5. Remove the ham from the smoker when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours
Dutch Oven Smoked Ham Shank with Herbs
Transform a humble ham shank into a mouthwatering, fall-apart masterpiece infused with aromatic herbs and the deep flavors of smoke. Perfect for special occasions or everyday comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) ham shank
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the ham shank, making sure to cover every surface.
4. Place the ham shank in the preheated Dutch oven, fat side up.
5. Add chopped rosemary and thyme around the ham shank.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid or foil and smoke for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Potato Chowder
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Smoked Ham Shank and Potato Chowder, perfect for a chilly day. This comforting soup combines the rich flavor of smoked ham with tender potatoes, onions, and carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 Smoked Ham Shank (about 2 pounds)
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the Smoked Ham Shank in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and sliced carrots around the ham.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add butter.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Ham Shank Red Beans and Rice
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a cold winter’s night. This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked ham shank with the warmth of red beans and creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank
– 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soaked red beans and 2 cups chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
5. Meanwhile, cook white rice according to package instructions using remaining 2 cups chicken broth.
6. Remove ham shank from packaging and place on top of bean mixture in the Dutch oven. Cover with lid and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 hours or until ham is tender and falling apart.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours total (1 hour for beans, 2 hours for ham)
Barbecue Glazed Smoked Ham Shank
Barbecue Glazed Smoked Ham Shank Recipe
Succulent ham shank infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of barbecue glaze, smoked to perfection for a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham shank (about 2 pounds)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Place the ham shank in the smoker, fat side up. Close the lid and smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
4. After 4 hours, brush the glaze all over the ham shank, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Continue smoking for an additional 30 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
6. Remove the ham from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours + 30 minutes
Smoked Ham Shank and Split Pea Soup
Smoked Ham Shank and Split Pea Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky ham flavor and creamy split peas, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 4 cups split peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place the smoked ham shank in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the split peas, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 2 hours or until the peas are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Smoked Ham Shank with Maple Mustard Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of smoked ham paired with a tangy maple mustard sauce, perfect for a comforting meal or impressive dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, and garlic.
3. Place the ham shank on a large baking sheet or roasting pan. Brush the maple-mustard glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover every surface.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed ham and place in the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 2-3 pound ham shank.
Smoked Ham Shank and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of smoked ham with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank, 2-3 pounds
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
4. While sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the ham shank over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. Serve the smoked ham shank with the roasted sweet potato hash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Smoked Ham Shank with Apple Cider Reduction
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory smoked ham shank, perfectly paired with a tangy apple cider reduction.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) ham shank
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, and kosher salt. Rub the mixture all over the ham shank.
3. Place the ham shank in the smoker, fat side up.
4. Smoke for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F.
5. Meanwhile, combine apple cider and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the reduction has thickened slightly.
6. Remove the ham shank from the smoker and brush with the apple cider reduction.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of smoked ham shank with sweet cornbread, creating a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornbread mix, heavy cream, egg, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined.
3. Pour melted butter into the mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Add frozen corn kernels and fold gently to distribute evenly.
5. Place the smoked ham shank in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top the ham with the cornbread mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and the ham is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caribbean-Style Smoked Ham Shank with Mango Salsa
Caribbean-Style Smoked Ham Shank with Mango Salsa Recipe
Elevate your ham game with this flavorful and aromatic Caribbean-inspired dish, perfect for a special occasion or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
For the smoked ham shank:
– 1 (2-3 pound) ham shank
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional)
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
For the mango salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, jerk seasoning, and dark rum (if using).
3. Rub the mixture all over the ham shank, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the ham shank in the smoker, adding wood chips as needed for smoky flavor.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
7. Serve the smoked ham shank with the mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these mouthwatering smoked ham shank recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic comfort foods like slow-cooked ham and bean soup, to international twists like Caribbean-style ham with mango salsa, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing your ham with sweet potatoes, lentils, or collard greens for a hearty meal. You can also add a touch of sweetness with honey or pineapple glazes. With these 18 savory recipes, you’ll be the star of any holiday gathering or special occasion.
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