: Contains up to 10% added water. This is a budget-friendly option but will have a less intense flavor.
Hams are typically sold as whole legs or split into two main portions:
: This is the lower part of the leg. It is the classic "ham shape," has one straight bone that is easy to carve around, and is often preferred for its richer, fattier flavor. buy ham
: This is the leaner, meatier upper portion of the leg. It yields more attractive slices but contains a T-shaped bone that makes carving more difficult.
: Contains about 7–8% added water. It is still high quality and very common for holiday dinners. : Contains up to 10% added water
The wording on the label tells you exactly how much actual meat you are paying for versus added water:
: Can contain any amount of added water. These are typically the most processed and least flavorful. 3. Curing and Preparation It is the classic "ham shape," has one
: The highest quality. It contains no added water and is at least 20.5% protein.