Home / Ingredients / Protein / smoked ham hock

Protein10 recipes

smoked ham hock.

VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeHalalKosher

ALSO KNOWN AS

smoked pork hockssmoked pork knucklessmoked pork shankssmoked ham shankssmoked ham hockssmoked ham knucklehock

Recipes with smoked ham hock + Add to pantry

SERVING

CALORIES

279

PROTEIN

25.8g

CARBS

FAT

19.3g

FIBER

NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g

Everything in this ingredient.

MACRONUTRIENTS

Calories279kcal—

Protein25.8g52%

Carbohydrates0g0%

Fiber0g0%

Sugar0g0%

Total fat19.3g25%

Saturated fat6.7g34%

Cholesterol82mg27%

MINERALS

Sodium1020mg44%

Potassium290mg6%

Calcium10mg1%

Iron1.2mg7%

Magnesium18mg4%

Phosphorus210mg17%

Zinc2.4mg22%

VITAMINS

Thiamin (B1)0.52mg43%

Riboflavin (B2)0.21mg16%

Niacin (B3)4.8mg30%

Vitamin B60.38mg22%

%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS

How much is what.

1 cup150g

1 tablespoon9.4g

1 teaspoon3.1g

1 oz28.4g

1 lb453.6g

1 ml0.6g

1 liter625g

1 piece750g

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why eat it.

✓Excellent source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
✓Rich in collagen and gelatin, which support joint, skin, and connective tissue health.
✓Provides key minerals such as selenium, zinc, and phosphorus, important for immune function and bone health.
✓Good source of B vitamins, particularly thiamine (B1) and niacin (B3), which are vital for energy metabolism.

COOKING TIPS

In the kitchen.

1Simmer slowly in water, stock, or with beans/greens for 2-3 hours to tenderize the meat and infuse the liquid with a deep, smoky flavor.
2Rinse the ham hock under cold water before cooking to remove any excess surface salt from the curing process.
3After simmering, the meat can be easily shredded from the bone and added back to soups, stews, or greens.
4The flavorful cooking liquid, often called 'pot likker', makes an excellent base for soups, gravies, and sauces.

STORAGE

Keep it fresh.

Store vacuum-sealed or tightly wrapped smoked ham hocks in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) for up to one week.
For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 6 months for optimal quality.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Is smoked ham hock healthy?

Smoked ham hock is a nutrient-dense source of protein and collagen, which supports muscle repair and joint health. However, it is high in sodium and saturated fat due to the curing process, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How much protein is in a smoked ham hock?

A 100g serving of smoked ham hock contains approximately 25.8g of protein. This high protein content makes it an excellent choice for muscle building and maintaining healthy connective tissues.

Is smoked ham hock keto-friendly?

Yes, smoked ham hock is highly keto-friendly as it contains 0g of carbohydrates and is rich in fat. It is frequently used in low-carb cooking to add deep flavor and healthy fats to vegetable dishes like collard greens or cabbage.

How do you cook a smoked ham hock?

Because they are quite tough, smoked ham hocks are best prepared using slow-cooking methods like simmering or braising. They are typically boiled in soups, stews, or beans for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

What does a smoked ham hock taste like?

It has an intensely salty, smoky, and savory flavor profile. The high fat and collagen content provide a rich, silky mouthfeel to any liquid it is cooked in, making it a popular flavoring agent for bland ingredients like beans or peas.

Is smoked ham hock gluten-free?

In its natural state, smoked ham hock is gluten-free. However, some commercial brands may use curing agents or flavorings that contain gluten, so it is important to check the packaging if you have a gluten sensitivity.

How long does a smoked ham hock last in the fridge?

A vacuum-sealed smoked ham hock can last several weeks in the refrigerator. Once the seal is broken or the hock is cooked, it should be stored in an airtight container and consumed within 3 to 5 days.

Can you freeze smoked ham hocks?

Yes, you can freeze smoked ham hocks for up to 6 months. Wrap them tightly in freezer-safe plastic or foil to prevent freezer burn and preserve the smoky aroma.

Do you eat the skin on a smoked ham hock?

The skin is edible and contains high amounts of collagen, but it can remain quite chewy even after long cooking. Many people choose to discard the skin after it has flavored the dish, while others chop it finely and include it for texture.

Is smoked ham hock high in sodium?

Yes, smoked ham hocks are significantly high in sodium because of the salt-curing process. When using them in recipes, it is often best to avoid adding extra salt until the dish is finished and you have tasted the final result.

RECIPES