Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the rich flavor and tender texture of smoked ham shanks. From hearty stews and soups to comforting casseroles and skillet meals, we’ve got you covered with a variety of delicious ways to use this versatile ingredient.
Whether you’re looking for a classic Southern-inspired dish or something a little more adventurous, our collection of slow-cooked and braised recipes is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So why not start planning your next meal with some of these savory smoked ham shank recipes?
Slow-Cooked Smoked Ham Shank with Root Vegetables
This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. The slow-cooking process tenderizes the ham and infuses it with rich, smoky flavor, while the root vegetables add natural sweetness and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. Place the ham shank in the slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped carrots, parsnips, onion, and garlic on top of the ham.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and brown sugar.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the ham is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky flavor and comforting warmth, made with tender ham shank and creamy beans. It’s an ideal meal for a chilly day or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the ham shank in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and soaked beans around the ham.
4. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until the beans are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Southern-Style Smoked Ham Shank Collard Greens
A classic Southern comfort food recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked ham, collard greens, and a hint of vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham shank, boned and cut into large pieces
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine ham pieces, collard greens, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in apple cider vinegar and olive oil; stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until greens are tender and ham is falling apart.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Potato Chowder
Smoked Ham Shank and Potato Chowder Recipe
Summary: This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of smoked ham shank with tender potatoes, onions, and carrots. Perfect for a chilly day or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked ham shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the ham shank pieces, potatoes, onion, garlic, and carrots.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the ham is heated through.
4. Stir in the milk or cream and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Braised Smoked Ham Shank with Honey Glaze
Braised Smoked Ham Shank with Honey Glaze: A rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 pounds)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 cup of honey
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked ham shank, chicken broth, honey, brown sugar, and ground mustard.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2 hours, or until the ham is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. Strain the braising liquid and discard the solids.
7. Whisk together the strained liquid and honey until smooth.
8. Serve the ham with the honey glaze spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Lentil Stew
Smoked Ham Shank and Lentil Stew Recipe: A Hearty Winter Warmer
This comforting stew combines the rich flavor of smoked ham shank with the earthy goodness of red lentils, perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Place the smoked ham shank in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the ham.
4. Add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the lentils are tender and the ham is falling apart.
7. Remove from heat and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Ham Shank with Mustard and Brown Sugar
Elevate your ham game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked ham with a sticky mustard glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves until well combined.
3. Place the ham shank in the smoker and glaze every 30 minutes with the sugar-mustard mixture.
4. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Split Pea Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. The smoky flavor of the ham shank pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the split peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank, 2-3 pounds
– 1 cup dried split peas (green or yellow)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the ham shank on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine the split peas, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
4. Add the baked ham shank to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Remove the ham shank from the pot and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Smoked Ham Shank with Apple Cider Glaze
Elevate your holiday feast with this sweet and savory glazed ham shank, perfect for a crowd-pleasing main course. Smoked to perfection and finished with an apple cider glaze, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Place the ham shank in the smoker, fat side up. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 100°F.
3. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the ham shank with the apple cider glaze every 15 minutes.
5. Remove from smoker and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and White Bean Cassoulet
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavor of smoked ham shank with creamy white beans, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. The slow-cooked ham and beans meld together in a savory, aromatic broth that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, brown the ham shank in olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, chicken broth, and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
4. Add cannellini beans and stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the ham is tender and the beans are creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Ham Shank with Pineapple and Cloves
Transform your ham shank into a sweet and savory masterpiece with the addition of pineapple and cloves. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a stress-free Sunday dinner.
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
– 1 cup pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and black pepper.
3. Apply the glaze all over the ham shank, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pineapple rings on top of the ham, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
5. Close the smoker lid and cook for 4-6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
6. Remove the ham from the smoker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Cabbage Skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines the tender juiciness of smoked ham with the crispness of sautéed cabbage. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 pound) smoked ham shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ham pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the sliced cabbage, minced garlic, and ground mustard to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Ham Shank with Maple Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this mouthwatering smoked ham shank glazed with a sweet and tangy maple bourbon reduction. Perfect for serving at a crowd-pleasing party or as the centerpiece of a special meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-pound) bone-in ham shank
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type, e.g., apple, cherry, or mesquite)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the ham shank with salt and pepper.
3. Smoke the ham for 8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
4. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Glaze the ham shank with the maple bourbon mixture during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (smoking) + 5 minutes (glazing)
Smoked Ham Shank and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavor of smoked ham with the warmth of cornbread. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the ham shank over medium-high until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer the ham to a large baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and melted butter.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour the cornbread mixture over the ham shank.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Ham Shank with Garlic and Herbs
This classic recipe elevates a humble ham shank to new heights with the rich flavors of smoked garlic and fragrant herbs. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) ham shank
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the ham shank, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the ham shank in the smoker, bone side down.
5. Smoke for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. During the last hour of smoking, baste with chicken broth every 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Black-Eyed Peas
This classic Southern dish is a staple of soulful comfort food, pairing tender smoked ham shank with creamy black-eyed peas. Perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoky ham hock (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the ham hock and place it in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper around the ham hock.
4. Pour in enough water to cover the ham by about an inch.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the ham is tender and falling apart.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
8. Add black-eyed peas to the pot and cover again. Let simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including braising time)
Smoked Ham Shank with Molasses Glaze
Smoked Ham Shank with Molasses Glaze Recipe
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory smoked ham shank glazed with a rich molasses mixture. This recipe yields a tender, flavorful ham that’s perfect for serving as the centerpiece of any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
3. Place the ham shank in the smoker and glaze with the molasses mixture every 30 minutes for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Sweet Potato Hash
Transform your weeknight dinner with this hearty and flavorful dish featuring smoked ham shank and sweet potato hash. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening, as the smoky flavor of the ham pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 4-5 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, place the smoked ham shank in a separate baking dish. Brush with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Place the ham shank in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
6. Serve the roasted sweet potatoes alongside the smoked ham shank.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of smoked ham shank with these 18 savory recipe ideas. From hearty soups and stews to comforting casseroles, each dish showcases the versatility of this delicious cut of meat. Try slow-cooking it with root vegetables or beans for a satisfying meal. Add some Southern flair with collard greens and a honey glaze, or go international with lentils and spices. Whatever your taste, there’s a recipe on this list to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to dig in and enjoy the smoky goodness of these 18 savory smoked ham shank recipes!