How To Cook Smoked Ham Hocks? | Learn About Ham Hocks

Smoked ham hocks are a flavorful addition to many savory dishes. These meaty and flavorful cuts of pork come from the lower part of the pig’s leg and are typically cured and smoked to enhance the flavor. Ham hocks are a perfect ingredient in dishes like soups, stews, beans or collard greens, among others. Though cooking smoked ham hocks may seem intimidating, with the right techniques, they can be easily prepared at home. In this post, we shall go through how to cook smoked ham hocks to perfection.

What Are Ham Hocks?

Ham hocks, also known as pork knuckles or shanks, are cuts of meat that come from the lower part of the pig’s leg. They are typically cured and smoked to add flavor and preserve them for longer periods of time. This process gives ham hocks a distinct smoky taste and tender texture.

What Are Ham Hocks Used For?

Ham hocks are commonly used to enhance dishes with rich, smoky, and porky flavors. They are simmered slowly in soups, stews, stocks, and braises. After the meat is cooked, it can be shredded or chopped and added back to the soup or stew. Alternatively, it can be reserved for use in salads, quiches, or casseroles.

How To Cook Smoked Ham Hocks?

Ingredients:

• 1 smoked ham hock
• Water or broth, enough to cover the hock
• Optional seasonings (such as bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic cloves)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Rinse the ham hock under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place it in a roasting pan or baking dish.
4. If desired, add optional seasonings like bay leaves, peppercorns, and garlic cloves around the ham hock for extra flavor.
5. Cover the ham hock with foil and place it in the oven to cook for about 2-3 hours.
6. After 2-3 hours, check the ham hock for tenderness by inserting a fork into the meat. If it easily falls apart, it is done cooking.
7. Remove the foil and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the skin.
8. Once done, remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Similar to stovetop cooking, remove the skin and fat from the ham hock, and shred or chop the meat as desired.
10. The cooked smoked ham hock can now be added to various dishes or used as a flavorful ingredient in recipes.

How To Cook Smoked Pork Hocks In The Oven?

Ingredients:

• 1 smoked ham hock
• Water or broth, enough to cover the hock
• Optional seasonings (such as bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic cloves)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Rinse the pork hock under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place it in a roasting pan or baking dish.
4. If desired, add optional seasonings like bay leaves, peppercorns and garlic cloves around the ham hock for extra flavor.
5. Cover the pork hock with foil and place it in the oven to cook for about 2-3 hours.
6. After 2-3 hours, check the ham hock for tenderness by inserting a fork into the meat. If it easily falls apart, it is done cooking.
7. Remove the foil and let it cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes to allow the skin to crisp up.
8. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before removing the skin and fat.
9. Shred or chop the meat as desired and use it in a variety of dishes.

Notes When Cooking Smoked Ham Hocks

• Make sure to remove the skin and fat before using the cooked ham hock in recipes, as they can be tough and chewy.
• If cooking on the stovetop, use a large pot or Dutch oven to allow enough room for the ham hock and liquid to cook together.
• For extra flavor, add vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery to the cooking liquid.
• Depending on your preference, you can use either water or broth as the cooking liquid. Broth will add more depth of flavor, while water will allow the smoky taste of the ham hock to shine through.
• If using in a soup or stew, let the ham hock simmer in the liquid for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.
• Leftover cooked ham hock can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
• When frozen, smoked ham hocks will last up to 6 months in the freezer.

Tips For Making Smoked Ham Hocks

• For a more intense smoky flavor, add a small amount of liquid smoke to the cooking liquid.
• If you prefer crispy skin on your ham hock, remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• To save time, use pre-cooked smoked ham hocks and simply reheat them in simmering water or broth for about 20 minutes before using in recipes.
• If you don’t have an oven, smoked ham hocks can also be cooked on a stovetop over low heat for 2-3 hours.

Can I Store Smoked Ham Hocks?

Ham hocks can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week after purchase. However, it is essential to double-check the expiration date sticker to ensure their freshness.

What To Serve With Smoked Ham Hocks?

Smoked ham hocks can be served in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and beans. They also pair well with vegetables like collard greens or cabbage. Additionally, they can also be used as a tasty protein addition to salads or sandwiches.