If you’re craving juicy ham hocks for dinner, you might be wondering where to find them. While ham and pork are readily available at any grocery store, ham hocks are a more specific cut of meat that requires a bit more effort to locate.
What Exactly Are Ham Hocks?
Ham hocks can be a bit confusing for some people. The pig has various sections used in culinary dishes, including the ribs, loin, and lard. In particular, ham hocks are the bottom section of a pig’s legs, specifically the joint that connects the foot to the leg. It’s like the pig’s ankle, and it gets its name from being part of the ham, which is the pig’s rear.
Where Can You Find Ham Hocks?
Usually, you can find ham hocks in the pork section of mainstream grocery stores. Although ham hocks have become slightly less popular in recent years, they are not as rare as you might think. You shouldn’t have to go to a specialty butcher shop to find them, although that’s always an option.
Simply visit your local grocery store, deli market, or a major retailer supermarket like Walmart. They should have ham hocks in the same sections where they sell ham and other pork products. If you’re unsure, just ask an employee if they have any ham hocks available. The odds are in your favor since they can still be found in many grocery stores and supermarkets. They might be in a smaller, more specific section of the aisle compared to the more popular ham products, but they should be there.
Ham hocks are often sold fresh, which is perfect for slow cooking, soups, and stews. You should also know that they are sometimes sold smoked and spiced, giving them a flavor similar to bacon. If you’re a bacon lover, trying out a ham hock is a must!
While ham hocks can be enjoyed on their own, they are primarily used to enhance the flavor of various dishes. As their fats dissolve into soups or stews, they provide a distinct, irresistible smoky taste.
Like other cuts of pork, ham hocks are versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes and cooking styles. They are also relatively affordable compared to ham, bacon, or ribs, making them a great alternative for pork enthusiasts. Consider cooking with ham hocks for your next meal!
