Cooking a ham shank in a pressure cooker is an incredible way to prepare this savory cut of meat quickly while still achieving tender, flavorful results. If you’ve ever struggled with timing and tenderness when cooking ham, using a pressure cooker can revolutionize your cooking experience. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about cooking ham shank in a pressure cooker – from selecting the right shank to achieving optimum results.
Understanding Ham Shank
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s understand what a ham shank is and why it’s a favored choice for many home cooks.
What is Ham Shank?
A ham shank is the lower part of the pig’s leg that is often cured and smoked. It comes from the area just above the foot and is typically sold bone-in, meaning it contains a large bone running down the center. The shank is known for its rich flavor but is generally tougher compared to other cuts of ham. This toughness is why proper cooking methods, like pressure cooking, are essential to convert the meat into a succulent dish.
Nutritional Value of Ham Shank
Ham shank is not just a flavorful choice; it also boasts significant nutritional benefits:
- Protein Content: Packed with high-quality protein that helps build and repair tissues.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Contains essential nutrients, including Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.
Choosing the Right Ham Shank
Selecting a good quality ham shank is crucial for a successful dish. Here are some tips on what to look for:
Quality Indicators
When choosing your ham shank, consider the following:
- Appearance: Look for a healthy pink color with some marbling. Avoid shanks that appear dull or dry.
- Smell: Fresh meat should have a clean smell. If you notice sour or off odors, it’s best to steer clear.
Bone-In vs. Boneless
While both cuts will work, a bone-in ham shank tends to yield a richer flavor and more depth to your dish. The bone assists in flavoring the cooking liquid, enhancing the overall taste.
Prepping Your Pressure Cooker
Once you have selected the perfect ham shank, it’s time to prepare your pressure cooker. Here’s how to get everything ready for your cooking adventure!
Choosing the Right Pressure Cooker
Ensure that your pressure cooker is large enough to accommodate the ham shank. A 6-quart model is typically a good size for most shanks. Clear any barriers inside the cooker to ensure that the meat fits comfortably.
Essential Tools & Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the cooking process:
Tools:
- Pressure cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Serving dish
- Meat fork
Ingredients:
- 1 ham shank (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- Salt to taste
- Your choice of herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
Cooking Ham Shank in a Pressure Cooker
Now that your tools and ingredients are ready, let’s get cooking! Below is a step-by-step guide to cooking your ham shank in a pressure cooker.
Step 1: Searing the Ham Shank
To enhance the depth of flavor, searing the ham shank before pressure cooking is highly recommended.
- Set your pressure cooker to the “sauté” function.
- Add a small amount of oil (olive or vegetable) in the bottom of the pot.
- Once hot, place the ham shank in the pot and brown on all sides—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Adding Liquid and Aromatics
After searing, remove the ham shank and set aside. Now it’s time to add liquid and aromatics.
- Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth. This will create steam for the pressure cooking process.
- Add the quartered onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and any herbs of your choice.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
Step 3: Cooking the Ham Shank
Now it’s time to return the ham shank to the pressure cooker.
- Place the ham shank back in the pot, ensuring it is immersed in the liquid.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker securely, making sure the pressure release valve is set to “sealing.”
- Set your pressure cooker to high pressure for about 45 minutes.
Cooking Time Tips
- If your ham shank is particularly large or thick, consider increasing the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.
- For more fall-off-the-bone tenderness, you can let the shank pressure cook for up to an hour.
Step 4: Natural Release
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure cooker to cool down naturally for about 10-15 minutes before releasing the remaining steam. This helps the meat remain juicy and tender.
- After the natural release, you can switch the pressure release valve to “venting” to fully release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the lid and be cautious of any remaining steam.
Step 5: Serving the Ham Shank
To serve your ham shank:
- Use a meat fork to carefully remove the shank from the cooker.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps in retaining the juices.
- Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments, such as mashed potatoes or sautéed vegetables. Use the remaining broth in the pressure cooker as a flavorful gravy!
Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions
A ham shank is versatile and can be adapted with various flavors and sides.
Flavor Variations
Experiment with different spices and aromatics to create unique flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Honey Glaze: Before searing, rub the ham with a mixture of honey, mustard, and brown sugar.
- Cider Infusion: Substitute half the broth with apple cider for a sweeter profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the broth for a spicy flavor.
Ideal Side Dishes
Ham shank pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider these pairings:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic comfort food that complements the savory richness of the ham.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances the saltiness of the ham.
- Green Beans Almondine: A light and fresh side that adds a nice crunch.
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, ham shank can be stored and enjoyed later. Follow these tips:
Refrigerating
- Once cooled, place any leftover ham shank in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Freezing
- Wrap any leftover ham shank tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or on the stove until warmed through.
Conclusion
Cooking a ham shank in a pressure cooker can transform a traditionally long and laborious process into a quick and efficient one, without sacrificing flavor or tender texture. With the right techniques and seasonings, you can create a luscious dish that will impress your family and friends.
So, grab your pressure cooker and start experimenting with flavors, because a perfectly cooked ham shank is just a short cooking time away!
With this comprehensive guide at your fingertips, you can confidently prepare a delicious ham shank that will become a family favorite for years to come. Happy cooking!
What is a ham shank?
A ham shank is a cut of meat taken from the leg of a hog, specifically from the lower portion just above the ankle. It’s known for its rich flavor and sometimes tougher texture due to the muscles used for walking. While it’s often considered less desirable than other cuts of ham, it can be made delicious and tender through proper cooking methods, especially when using a pressure cooker.
Cooking a ham shank can be an affordable and tasty choice. When prepared correctly, the meat becomes tender and juicy, with the added benefit of the bone enriching the dish with flavor during the cooking process. Pressure cooking is particularly effective for ham shanks as it can significantly reduce the cooking time while infusing flavors.
How do you prepare a ham shank for pressure cooking?
Preparing a ham shank for pressure cooking begins with rinsing the meat under cool water to remove any excess salt or brine. Pat the shank dry with paper towels to help the spices adhere better. Next, you can choose to score the surface of the ham shank in a diamond pattern, which not only looks appealing but also helps the seasoning penetrate the meat more effectively.
After scoring, rub your favorite spices and herbs all over the ham shank. Common seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and brown sugar, which contribute to a delightful glaze during cooking. If desired, you can also sear the shank in the pressure cooker using the sauté function. This step adds an extra layer of flavor by browning the meat before you begin the pressure cooking process.
What are the cooking times for ham shank in a pressure cooker?
The cooking time for a ham shank in a pressure cooker generally ranges from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the size of the shank. A smaller shank, weighing around 2 pounds, may only need about 20 to 25 minutes of cooking time, while a larger shank, closer to 4 pounds, could require up to 40 minutes to reach the desired tenderness.
It’s important to consider that these times are for cooking under high pressure. Always refer to your pressure cooker’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations, as different models may have various guidelines. Additionally, after the timer goes off, allow for a natural release for about 10 to 15 minutes to ensure the meat retains moisture.
Can you cook a frozen ham shank in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can cook a frozen ham shank in a pressure cooker, which is one of the advantages of using this cooking method. When cooking from frozen, it’s essential to extend the cooking time. A good rule of thumb is to add about 5 to 10 additional minutes per pound to the standard cooking time for a thawed ham shank.
However, it’s crucial to ensure that the ham shank is properly sealed in the pressure cooker to avoid any safety issues. When using a frozen ham shank, avoid sautéing first, and proceed directly to cooking under pressure. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for safety before serving.
What are some recommended recipes for ham shank in a pressure cooker?
There are numerous delicious recipes for cooking ham shank in a pressure cooker. A popular option is honey-glazed ham shank, where you combine honey, brown sugar, and mustard to create a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. You can use a bit of apple cider or chicken broth for moisture and flavor while the shank cooks under pressure.
Another delightful recipe is a savory ham shank with vegetables. Simply add chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes around the ham shank in the pressure cooker, along with some herbs like thyme and rosemary. The vegetables will absorb the flavorful juices from the meat, creating a satisfying one-pot meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights.
How do you serve ham shank once it’s cooked?
Once the ham shank is cooked and has rested appropriately, you can serve it in a variety of ways. A common approach is to slice the meat and arrange it on a serving platter. The meat can be served on its own or paired with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. The flavorful juices from the cooking process can also be drizzled over the top to enhance the taste.
You might also choose to shred the ham shank meat for use in other dishes. The tender and flavorful meat works well in sandwiches, casseroles, or even in hearty soups. Whatever method you choose for serving, the rich flavor of the ham shank will surely be a hit at your dining table.
What should you do with leftover ham shank?
Leftover ham shank can be creatively utilized in multiple recipes. Once the meat has cooled, you can shred or dice it and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for making sandwiches, adding to omelets, or incorporating into pasta dishes for a smoky flavor boost.
For those who want to maximize flavors, consider using the bone to make a hearty soup or stock. You can simmer the bone with vegetables, herbs, and water to create a delicious broth that serves as a base for various recipes. This not only reduces food waste but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your future meals.