Are you looking to elevate your slow-cooking game with a rich, savory flavor profile? Look no further than the humble smoked ham shank. This often-overlooked cut of meat is actually a treasure trove of deliciousness just waiting to be unlocked. And when paired with the right ingredients and techniques, it can become the star of the show in a wide variety of dishes.
From classic comfort foods like bean soup and shepherd’s pie, to more adventurous creations like tacos and gumbo, smoked ham shanks are incredibly versatile. And best of all, they’re easy to slow cook to tender perfection in your favorite cooking vessel – whether that’s a crockpot, Instant Pot, or traditional oven.
In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouthwatering recipes for slow-cooked smoked ham shanks, each featuring unique flavor combinations and techniques. From sweet and sticky glazes to hearty stews and soups, there’s something here for every taste and preference.
Slow-Cooked Honey Glazed Smoked Ham Shank
Transform your smoked ham shank into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy slow-cooker recipe. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves.
3. Place the smoked ham shank in the slow cooker and brush the glaze all over it.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the ham is tender and caramelized.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Bean Soup with Herbs
This hearty soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, featuring tender smoked ham shank, creamy beans, and a blend of aromatic herbs. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this comforting meal in no time.
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 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, and smoked ham shank.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours or until ham is tender.
5. Add soaked navy beans, thyme, and rosemary to the pot.
6. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Smoky Ham Shank with Root Vegetables and Thyme
Transform a humble ham shank into a tender, flavorful masterpiece by slow-cooking it with aromatic root vegetables and the essence of thyme. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a centerpiece for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown the ham shank on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, vinegar, and thyme to the pot. Return the ham shank to the pot.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Braised Smoked Ham Shank in Apple Cider Sauce
Elevate your holiday spread with this rich and flavorful braised ham shank recipe, perfectly glazed with a sweet and tangy apple cider sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the ham shank with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
3. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the chopped onion in a little oil until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and smoked ham shank to the pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Braise the ham shank for about 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Ham Shank Jambalaya with Spicy Andouille
This jambalaya recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked ham shank with spicy Andouille sausage, creating a hearty and flavorful one-pot dish perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank, bone-in
– 1 lb Spicy Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add ham shank, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Stir in rice. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Return sausage to pot; stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern-Style Smoked Ham Shank and Collard Greens
A classic Southern pairing that’s sure to become a family favorite! This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked ham shank with the tender, slightly bitter taste of collard greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-pound) bone-in ham shank
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup wood chips (preferably hickory or apple)
– 1 pound fresh collard greens, chopped
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Rub the mixture all over the ham shank, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place wood chips in the smoker and add the ham shank.
5. Smoke for 6-8 hours or until the ham is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to boil. Add collard greens and chicken broth.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes or until greens are tender.
8. Stir in vinegar and serve with smoked ham shank.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (smoking), 30 minutes (collard greens)
Crockpot Smoked Ham Shank with Garlic Butter Potatoes
Experience the perfect comfort food fusion of tender smoked ham and creamy garlic butter potatoes, all made easy in your Crockpot. This hearty recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the ham shank in the Crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the cubed potatoes on top of the ham shank, followed by the garlic butter mixture, spreading evenly.
4. Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes and ham shank.
5. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
6. Remove the ham shank from the Crockpot and serve with the creamy garlic butter potatoes.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Smoked Ham Shank and Lentil Stew with Carrots
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, packed with the rich flavor of smoked ham shank, tender lentils, and sweet carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Place the ham shank in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
3. Add the lentils, water or broth, carrots, onion, garlic, and thyme.
4. Cover the pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Remove the ham shank from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with the stew and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Maple-Glazed Smoked Ham Shank with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your holiday spread with this show-stopping Maple-Glazed Smoked Ham Shank paired with roasted Brussels sprouts. This sweet and savory combination is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and black pepper.
3. Place the ham shank in a roasting pan and brush with the glaze.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
5. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve the glazed ham shank with roasted Brussels sprouts.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Ham Shank Fried Rice with Scallions and Eggs
Transform leftover smoked ham shank into a savory fried rice dish packed with scallions, eggs, and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced smoked ham shank
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced ham shank and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Push the cooked ham to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through. Mix with the ham.
4. Add the cooked rice, garlic, and scallions to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps and ensuring everything is well combined.
5. Return the cooked ham and egg mixture to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Split Pea Soup with Smoked Ham Shank
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the simplicity of split peas with the rich flavor of smoked ham shank.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 6 ounces), trimmed of excess fat
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, split peas, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Add the smoked ham shank to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes or until the meat is easily shredded with a fork.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Smoked Ham Shank Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Discover a sweet and savory fusion of flavors in these Smoked Ham Shank Tacos, elevated by the tangy crunch of fresh pineapple salsa. This recipe is perfect for a unique twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cilantro, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the smoked ham shank into thin strips.
3. Grill the ham for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled ham, pineapple salsa (see below), and desired toppings.
Pineapple Salsa:
1. In a bowl, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mustard-Crusted Smoked Ham Shank with Herbed Cornbread
Elevate your Sunday supper with this indulgent Mustard-Crusted Smoked Ham Shank paired with a savory Herbed Cornbread.
Mustard-Crusted Smoked Ham Shank
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mustard, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt.
3. Place the ham shank on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or broiler pan.
4. Brush the mustard mixture evenly over the ham shank.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Herbed Cornbread
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients and cream until smooth.
3. Add egg, honey, and thyme; whisk until combined.
4. Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour (ham) and 20-25 minutes (cornbread)
Smoky Ham Shank and White Bean Cassoulet
This hearty, slow-cooked casserole is a perfect comfort food for chilly days. Tender smoky ham shank pairs perfectly with creamy white beans and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat oil over medium-high. Sear ham shank until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to preheated oven.
5. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until ham is tender.
6. Stir in cannellini beans and breadcrumbs. Return pot to the oven and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Let rest before slicing ham and serving with bean mixture.
Cooking Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Spicy Smoked Ham Shank Gumbo with Okra
This hearty gumbo recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked ham shank with the creamy texture of okra, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ham shank, okra, chicken broth, water, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Ham Shank Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Mash
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a cold winter’s night. Smoked ham shank adds a rich, savory flavor to this classic shepherd’s pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 pounds)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 3-4 potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ham shank over medium heat until browned.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Meanwhile, boil diced potatoes in water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and heavy cream.
5. Top the ham mixture with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Pressure Cooker Smoked Ham Shank and Black-Eyed Peas
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked ham shank with the creamy goodness of black-eyed peas, all cooked to perfection in a pressure cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked ham shank
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the ham shank, black-eyed peas, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pressure cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure all ingredients are covered.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
4. Cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Shred the ham shank with two forks and serve over the black-eyed peas.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Barbecue-Glazed Smoked Ham Shank Sliders
Transform classic sliders into a sweet and savory masterpiece by topping them with tender, smoky ham shank glazed in a rich barbecue sauce. Perfect for game-day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham shank (about 2 lbs), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup barbecue glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– 8-10 slider buns
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Coleslaw and pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add barbecue glaze and stir until smooth.
3. Brush the glaze mixture onto both sides of the ham shank strips.
4. Place the glazed ham strips on top of slider buns.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the ham is heated through and the glaze caramelized.
6. Serve immediately, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Ham Shank Omelette with Cheddar and Chives
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, savory omelette featuring smoked ham shank, cheddar cheese, and fresh chives. Perfect for a special occasion or lazy Sunday morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced smoked ham shank
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in eggs and cook until edges start to set (about 30 seconds).
4. Add diced ham shank, shredded cheese, and chopped chives on half of the omelette.
5. Fold the other half over the filling using a spatula.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until cheese is melted and eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious ways to cook smoked ham shank? Look no further! This article features 19 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this slow-cooked staple. From classic comfort foods like jambalaya and shepherd’s pie, to global-inspired dishes like tacos and cassoulet, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and savory glazes or hearty stews, these flavorful recipes will satisfy your cravings. Get ready to elevate your slow-cooking game with these easy-to-make and mouth-watering smoked ham shank recipes!