ham shank recipe
- The Best ham shank recipe
- Classic Slow-Cooked Ham Shanks with Honey-Glazed Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Classic Slow-Cooked Ham Shanks with Honey-Glazed Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow-Cooked Ham Shanks with Honey-Glazed Sauce
The Best ham shank recipe
I love how versatile ham shanks are. You can serve it with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or even a light side of roasted vegetables. It’s also a great way to use up extra herbs or spices you might have on hand—just a pinch of garlic powder, a dash of smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of fresh rosemary can make a big difference. Plus, the leftovers keep well, so you can make a big batch and have something ready for lunch the next day. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is practical, and it’s always a hit with family gatherings or casual meals. Plus, the slow cooking process makes it a healthier option than quick-braised cuts of meat—it’s tender without being overly greasy, and the natural sugars in the ham caramelize beautifully.
Classic Slow-Cooked Ham Shanks with Honey-Glazed Sauce
Tender ham shanks simmered in a sweet-savory sauce until fall-off-the-bone tender, perfect for a comforting family meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 large ham shanks (about 1.5 lbs each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat ham shanks dry with paper towels and season generously with black pepper and smoked paprika. -
2
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear ham shanks on all sides until deeply browned (about 3–4 minutes per side). Transfer to a slow cooker. -
3
In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, ketchup, honey, vinegar, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Pour sauce into the slow cooker with the ham shanks. -
4
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or until ham reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The meat should pull away easily from the bone.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Slow-Cooked Ham Shanks with Honey-Glazed Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow-Cooked Ham Shanks with Honey-Glazed Sauce
What’s the best way to reheat leftover ham shank?
Use an oven-safe pan or dish on the stovetop over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover loosely with foil and warm for about 15–20 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Avoid microwaving directly to prevent drying out.
Can I substitute pork shoulder for ham shank?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time. Pork shoulder cooks faster and may fall apart more easily. Trim excess fat, place in a roasting pan, and roast at 300°F (150°C) until tender—about 2.5 to 3 hours for a 5–6 lb shoulder. Check the meat’s tenderness before serving.
How do I know when the ham shank is done?
The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for whole hams or 160°F (71°C) for bone-in cuts. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The meat should pull apart easily when you probe it with a fork, and the edges should be slightly crispy.
What if my ham shank isn’t crispy enough?
For extra crunch, broil it for 2–3 minutes after removing from the oven, or brush with a little melted butter or brown sugar before broiling. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming instead of browning.
