The Best Ham Salad Calls For 2 Types Of Ham

The difference between country ham and city ham

Sheri Castle suggests using 4 ounces of country ham and 4 ounces of city ham in her recipe. The key difference lies in their curing methods. City ham includes the popular spiral-sliced varieties that many enjoy during the holidays. These hams are wet-brined, meaning they are cured in a saltwater solution that may also contain sugar, nitrites, and other flavorings. Alternatively, they can be injected with a salt solution. While many of these hams are sold precooked, some may be uncooked, so it's essential to check the label for proper handling instructions. (Additionally, you'll want to ensure it doesn't dry out too much while roasting.)

In contrast, country ham is dry-cured, which involves rubbing the meat with a mixture of salt and sometimes spices before aging. Initially, country hams are cured for at least a month at temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to draw out sufficient moisture. Following this, the salt equalization process begins, where the ham is exposed to warmer temperatures, allowing the salt and sugar to penetrate the meat. Some hams are smoked during this phase to impart a unique flavor. The aging process then commences, typically lasting a minimum of three months, although some can be aged for over 20 months, resulting in a saltier taste.

Due to its lengthy dry curing process, country ham has low moisture content and a saltier, more complex flavor. On the other hand, city ham is moist with a milder, sweeter flavor that is not overwhelming. When combined in a ham salad, these two types of ham complement each other beautifully in both taste and texture.

Finding the right balance of country ham and city ham

The secret to Sheri Castle's ham salad lies in achieving the perfect balance between city ham and country ham. To accomplish this, you'll need to evaluate the quality of your ham through a classic taste test. Country ham has a much bolder flavor and a firmer texture, which can easily overpower the softer, milder city ham when combined. If you find the country ham too intense for your taste, simply substitute half of it with city ham. Conversely, if you enjoy a salty flavor, adding a bit more country ham can customize this spread to your preference.

Moreover, if your city ham is overly salty, you can use a soaking method to reduce its saltiness, as country ham is salty enough on its own to enhance the dish. If you're purchasing baked ham from the deli for your salad, don't hesitate to request a sample to gauge its saltiness before making a purchase. In fact, we strongly suggest visiting your local deli for this recipe, as it allows you to sample different types of ham to find the ones that best match your taste.