When it comes to country ham, a hidden world of flavor awaits beyond the tender meat. This includes the often-discarded skin and fat. Far from being mere byproducts, these parts of the country ham hold a treasure trove of flavor and versatility that can elevate your cooking to new heights.
Here are some unique ways to elevate your dishes with country ham skin and fat:
- Render the Fat. Rendered fat, after removing the cracklings, is a flavor bomb waiting to happen. You can dice some onions and sweat them in this golden liquid for the base of your next soup, stew, or pot of beans. This adds an incredible depth of savory goodness you won’t find in regular cooking oil. If you’re feeling adventurous, try rendering the fat with some aromatics like garlic, thyme, and bay leaves for a truly customized flavor infusion.
- Use the Cracklings as a Topping. Cracklings are the crunchy bits that form when you fry country ham skin and fat. Although they are undeniably delicious on their own, they can also be used as a salty, meaty topping for salads and other dishes. They add a delightful textural contrast and an undeniable hit of umami.
- Prepare a Flavor-Infused Stock. Looking to add an extra layer of depth to your homemade stock? Throw a few pieces of country ham skin and fat into your next stock pot alongside your usual vegetables and bones. The pieces will impart a subtle smokiness and richness that will take your soups and sauces to the next level.
True country ham fans know that some of the best parts might just be what others toss aside. That’s why we package our country ham skin and fat separately from our other cured country ham products. Feel free to experiment with this unique product and take your cooking on a delicious Southern adventure – it’s as easy as opening a package!
