Ham and bacon – two pork products that often get conflated or used interchangeably. But in fact ham and bacon come from different cuts of pork and undergo very distinct processing methods before arriving at your local deli or supermarket.
In this comprehensive guide we’ll clarify exactly what distinguishes ham from bacon covering topics like
- Definitions of ham and bacon
- What parts of the pig they come from
- How they are cured and cooked
- Key differences in taste, texture, and fat content
- Popular ways to enjoy each one
- Whether you can use bacon instead of ham
By the end, the distinctions between ham and bacon will be clear So let’s get cooking and understand how these two pork products end up so different on your plate!
Definitions: What are Ham and Bacon?
First, a quick definition of each:
Ham – Ham is pork meat from the hind leg of a pig that has been cured, smoked, and fully cooked.
Bacon – Bacon is pork belly and pork loin meat that has been cured and smoked or unsmoked. It can be eaten cooked or uncooked.
So ham comes from the rear legs and must be cooked before eating. Bacon comes from the belly and loin and does not require cooking. Those basics begin to show how ham and bacon diverge. Now let’s look more closely at their sources and processing.
Where Ham and Bacon Come From on the Pig
Ham and bacon originate from very different parts of the pig’s anatomy:
Ham is made from the hind leg of the pig. This is the back, thigh area. It is a very muscular area with relatively little fat.
Bacon most often comes from the pork belly, the fattiest section of the pig along the underside. Bacon can also be made from the loin section along the back.
So right from the start, ham and bacon begin their journeys in very different places, one lean and one fat-rich.
Curing and Cooking Differences
After those initial cuts, ham and bacon go through quite different curing and cooking processes:
Ham Curing
To make ham, the fresh leg is cured through methods like:
- Dry curing – rubbing the leg with a mixture of salts and spices
- Wet curing/brining – submerging the leg in a saltwater brine
- Injecting – injecting brine deep into the muscles
This curing phase can take from 3 days to 2 weeks depending on the technique.
The leg is then smoked at low temperatures for added flavor. Finally, it is cooked thoroughly by methods like baking, smoking more at higher heat, or boiling.
Bacon Curing
Bacon undergoes a different series of steps. The fresh pork belly or loin is cured by:
- Dry curing – packed in salt, spices, and sometimes sugars
- Wet curing/brining – soaked in a salty brine solution
- Often smoked after curing to add flavor
Unlike ham, bacon is ready to eat after curing and smoking. It does not require cooking. The smoking is light and done at low temps, so mainly imparts flavor.
So ham is first cured, then smoked, then cooked. Bacon is cured and smoked but does not need cooking.
Key Differences Between Ham and Bacon
With their different sources and processing, ham and bacon end up quite distinct:
Texture – Ham is dense and chewy. Bacon is crisp and tender.
Fat content – Ham is leaner. Bacon has high fat content.
Flavor – Ham has a meatier, smoky flavor. Bacon is saltier and more smoke-forward.
Color – Ham is dark pink to rosy brown. Bacon is deep mahogany red.
Shelf life – Fully cooked ham lasts longer. Bacon has a shorter unrefrigerated shelf life.
Serving – Ham is often served cold. Bacon is usually served freshly cooked.
Popular Dishes and Uses
Ham and bacon also tend to get used in very different ways in the kitchen:
Ham shines in dishes like:
- Glazed ham roasts
- Ham steaks
- Croque monsieur
- Split pea soup
- Ham sandwiches
- Omelets or quiche
Bacon takes the spotlight in recipes like:
- BLT sandwiches
- Breakfast plates with eggs
- Pasta carbonara
- Brussels sprouts or potato sides
- Bacon jam
- Wrapped scallops or shrimp
- Burgers and sandwiches
Ham’s meaty flavors work well in hearty dishes and sandwiches. Bacon’s strong smoked taste stands up to bold ingredients and breakfast foods.
Can You Use Bacon Instead of Ham?
Because of their distinct textures, flavors, and fat content, bacon and ham do not automatically substitute for one another in recipes. However, here are some considerations when deciding whether bacon could replace ham:
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In dishes where ham is an accent, like omelets or pasta, bacon can often substitute well.
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In salads, sandwiches, and breakfast plates, bacon can swap for ham easily.
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In soups or simmered dishes, bacon may overpower other ingredients due to its smokier, saltier taste.
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In recipes where ham is the star, like roasted ham or ham steak, bacon may not provide the same chewiness and meaty flavor.
So in quick-cooking recipes or as a supporting player, bacon can replace ham reasonably well. But for dishes where ham’s qualities shine, bacon may not provide the exact same results.
While both deliciously porky, ham and bacon emerge from different parts of the pig, take different paths in processing, and end up with distinct textures, flavors, and best uses.
Ham gives us juicy, meaty, smoky flavor perfect for sandwiches and heartier dishes. Bacon delivers crisp, fatty, salty pleasure ideal for breakfasts and bold ingredients.
Now that you know exactly how they differ, you can fully appreciate these two great pork products in their own right. So get cooking and savor ham and bacon for their unique qualities!