Is Shank or Butt Ham Better? How to Choose the Best Ham for Your Meal

When it comes to choosing a ham for your next meal or holiday spread, one of the most common questions is: is shank or butt ham better? Both cuts come from the hind leg of the pig. Shank ham is from the lower part of the leg, while butt ham comes from the upper portion.

There are some key differences between shank and butt that can help determine which is the better choice for you. Here is a complete breakdown comparing shank ham vs butt ham to help you pick the tastiest ham.

Shank Ham vs Butt Ham: Key Differences

• Location on the leg: Shank ham is from the lower portion of the hind leg near the hock. Butt ham comes from the upper part of the leg near the hip/thigh.

• Bone structure Shank ham has one straight leg bone running through it Butt ham may have fragments of bone or no bone at all

• Fat content Shank ham is fattier due to its proximity to the hock, Butt ham is leaner

• Flavor: Shank ham is more intensely flavored. Butt ham is milder.

• Appearance: Shank ham is slightly tapered with an obvious bone. Butt ham is rounded with less visible bone.

• Carving ease: Shank ham is easier to carve neatly due to the straight bone. Butt ham can be trickier to carve.

• Price: Shank ham costs a bit more per pound than butt ham.

• Health: Butt ham may be a slightly healthier choice due to less fat. But all ham is high in sodium.

How to Choose Between Shank and Butt Ham

With an understanding of the major differences between these two ham cuts, you can determine which is better for your purposes.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding between shank and butt ham:

• Flavor preference: If you want more pronounced ham flavor, choose shank. For milder flavor, use butt.

• Fat content desired: Shank ham has more fat while butt ham is leaner. Choose based on dietary preferences.

• Ease of carving: Shank ham with its full bone carves neatly into perfect slices. Butt ham is trickier to carve.

• Appearance: Shank ham looks classic on a platter. Butt ham has a less distinctive look. Go with shank for aesthetics.

• Serving size needed: Larger or bone-in shank hams serve more. Butt hams work for smaller groups.

• Budget: Shank ham costs a little more per pound but may be worth it for flavor. Butt ham is budget-friendly.

Tips for Cooking Shank and Butt Ham

Once you’ve selected either shank or butt ham, follow these tips to cook it to tender, juicy perfection:

• For bone-in hams, place ham cut-side down in the roasting pan and roast at 325°F. The bone helps conduct heat to the meat.

• Cook 15-18 minutes per pound for an uncooked fresh ham. Precooked hams take 10-12 minutes per pound.

• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Cook to at least 140°F.

• Let the ham rest for 15-30 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.

• Carve shank ham across the grain in thin slices. Carve butt ham in thicker slices or chunks.

• Glaze ham during last 30 minutes if desired. An apple juice or brown sugar glaze is delicious.

• Leftover ham can be wrapped well and refrigerated up to 5 days. Slice and use in soups, salads, sandwiches and more.

Shank vs Butt: Which is Better?

When it comes to shank ham vs butt ham, neither is necessarily “better” overall. The right choice comes down to individual needs and preferences.

For the best ham flavor, juiciness, ease of carving and classically beautiful appearance, go with shank ham. It’s the quintessential holiday ham centerpiece.

If you want milder flavor, a leaner cut or smaller portion, then butt ham may be better for you. It also costs a little less than shank per pound.

Whichever you choose, look for an uncured ham with no artificial ingredients added. Check the label for just one ingredient: pork. Then prepare your fresh ham using the easy roasting tips above for restaurant-quality results.

Ham can be enjoyed year-round, so experiment with shank and butt to find your favorite. With the right ham, techniques and recipes, you’re sure to impress your family or guests at the next gathering.