Hickory Honey Ham – it’s a mouthwatering name that conjures up images of succulent, juicy meat infused with the sweet and smoky flavors of hickory and honey.
But is it too good to be true? Is there really such a thing as Hickory Honey Ham, or is it just a marketing ploy to entice us into buying yet another type of ham?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes up this popular ham variety, its history, and whether or not it lives up to its delicious-sounding name.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about the world of Hickory Honey Ham.
Is Hickory Honey Ham Real?
Yes, Hickory Honey Ham is a real type of ham. It is a delicious and popular variety of ham that is loved by many for its sweet and smoky flavor.
Hickory Honey Ham is typically made by curing and smoking a ham with hickory wood, then glazing it with a mixture of honey and other ingredients to give it a sweet and sticky coating. The result is a ham that is both savory and sweet, with a rich and complex flavor profile.
What Is Hickory Honey Ham?
Hickory Honey Ham is a type of ham that is made by smoking a cured ham with hickory wood, then glazing it with a mixture of honey and other ingredients. The hickory wood gives the ham a smoky flavor, while the honey glaze adds a sweet and sticky coating to the outside of the ham.
To prepare Hickory Honey Ham, it is important to thaw the ham in the refrigerator for up to three days before heating it in the oven. The ham can be served warm or cold, and is typically heated in the oven with a cup of water in the bottom of the roasting pan to keep it moist.
Hickory Honey Ham is a popular choice for holiday meals and special occasions, but can also be enjoyed year-round. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in sandwiches, salads, and other dishes, or simply enjoyed on its own as a delicious and satisfying meal.
The History Of Hickory Honey Ham
The history of Hickory Honey Ham dates back to the early 20th century. In 1924, a man named Harry Hoenselaar created a bone-in spiral-slicer that smoked and cooked a ham. He later founded The HoneyBaked Ham Company and Café in 1957, which specialized in selling honey-glazed hams to customers. As the company expanded nationally, Hoenselaar divided the country into four territories and assigned a territory to each of his four daughters.
The company continued to grow and innovate, eventually introducing the Hickory Honey Ham variety. This type of ham became popular due to its unique blend of smoky hickory flavor and sweet honey glaze. The ham is fully cooked and can be served warm or cold, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Today, The Honey Baked Ham Company, LLC has over 200 company-owned retail stores and 200 franchise locations across the United States, as well as an ecommerce business. The company is still family-owned and operated, with Hoenselaar’s granddaughter Linda van Rees currently leading the company as CEO.
How Is Hickory Honey Ham Made?
To make Hickory Honey Ham, the ham is first cured and smoked with hickory wood. This process can take several weeks and involves hanging the ham in a smoker to allow the smoke to penetrate the meat. Once the ham is fully smoked, it is then glazed with a mixture of honey and other ingredients, such as brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard.
To apply the glaze, the ham is typically brushed with the honey mixture and then baked in an oven until the glaze becomes sticky and caramelized. Some recipes may also call for additional spices or herbs to be added to the glaze for extra flavor.
The Flavor Profile Of Hickory Honey Ham
The flavor profile of Hickory Honey Ham is unique and delicious. The hickory wood used to smoke the ham gives it a smoky and savory taste, while the sweet honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
The ham itself is typically tenderized through an old-fashioned process, which results in a juicy and succulent texture. The glaze, which is made with real honey and other ingredients, creates a sticky coating on the ham that caramelizes during cooking, adding depth to the flavor profile.
Overall, Hickory Honey Ham has a rich and complex taste that is both sweet and savory. It is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family meal or a holiday gathering. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
If you’re looking for a ham with a unique and delicious flavor profile, Hickory Honey Ham is definitely worth trying. Its combination of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors is sure to please your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Is Hickory Honey Ham Worth The Hype?
Many people would say that Hickory Honey Ham is definitely worth the hype. The brand boasts about its unmatched quality, and for good reason: all of the hams that make it to the stores have to pass a 16-point inspection, which only one out of every 10 hams clears. This dedication to quality means that customers can trust that they are getting a high-quality product every time they purchase a Hickory Honey Ham.
Additionally, the glazing process for Hickory Honey Ham is done by hand in-store, ensuring that each ham receives a nearly identical coating of caramelized glaze. This results in a consistent and delicious flavor and texture every time. The dedication to quality in both the product and service is what keeps customers coming back for their Hickory Honey Ham time and time again.
While there are other pre-cooked ham options available, many people prefer the unique flavor profile of Hickory Honey Ham. Its combination of smoky and sweet flavors makes it a standout choice for holiday meals or any special occasion. Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality and delicious ham option, Hickory Honey Ham is definitely worth trying.
Where To Find Hickory Honey Ham And How To Enjoy It.
If you’re looking to try Hickory Honey Ham for yourself, there are a few different options for where to find it. One popular brand is The Hickory Baked Ham Company, which offers a variety of hams including spiral sliced honey glazed boneless ham and bone-in ham. You can also find Hickory Honey Ham at many grocery stores and specialty meat shops.
Once you have your Hickory Honey Ham, there are several ways to enjoy it. It can be served either cold or warmed up, making it a versatile addition to any meal. To heat up your ham, preheat your oven to 325 degrees and place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan with 1 cup of water in the bottom of the pan. Cover with foil and heat for 10-15 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 140 F.
To add even more flavor to your Hickory Honey Ham, consider using the honey powder included in the packaging as a dry rub before heating. Simply apply liberally to the outside surface of the ham and adjust the amount to your personal taste preferences. Basting the ham during heating is also encouraged to achieve your desired level of glaze.
Whether enjoyed as a centerpiece for your holiday meal or as a tasty addition to sandwiches and salads, Hickory Honey Ham is a delicious and versatile option that is sure to please any palate.