What is Champagne Leg Ham? A Complete Guide

Champagne leg ham refers to a specific cut of cured and cooked ham that comes from the leg portion of the pig. It gets its name from the elongated champagne glass shape of the leg bone. When sliced, it reveals the signature round “bubble” outline that resembles rising bubbles in a champagne glass. This gives champagne leg ham a very distinctive and attractive presentation.

Overview of Champagne Leg Ham

Champagne leg ham is made using the fresh hind leg of the pig. It is brined or dry cured before being hickory smoked for rich flavor. The ham is then cooked thoroughly until fully ready to eat.

Unlike a full leg ham, the champagne leg is separated from the hip joint This creates the signature long, narrow shape that mimics a tall champagne glass. The femur bone that runs through the center gives structural support.

When sliced across the grain into rounds the hollow bone cavity creates a circular pattern like bubbles rising upward in a glass of champagne. This eye-catching shape makes it perfect for impressive holiday meals and dinner parties.

Unique Qualities of Champagne Leg Ham

Here are some of the qualities that set champagne leg ham apart from other types of ham:

• Elegant, sophisticated appearance – Slices have a distinct champagne bubble shape.

-leaner than other ham cuts – As it comes from the rear leg, it contains less fat.

• Delicate flavor – The rear leg location results in a subtler ham taste.

• Easy to carve – The elongated shape with centered bone simplifies slicing.

• Distinct marbling – Intramuscular fat creates beautiful marbling.

• Ideal for Buffets – Impressive whole ham makes a statement on buffet tables.

• Versatile uses – Works for everything from sandwiches to charcuterie.

How is it Prepared and Served?

Champagne leg ham can be enjoyed freshly sliced or used as an ingredient in recipes. Here are some common ways it is prepared and served:

• Buffet display ham – The impressive whole ham makes a showpiece meal centerpiece. It can be presented on a decorative platter surrounded with fruit, berries, pinecones, or greenery for a holiday flair. Pineapple and cherries pair nicely with ham.

• Charcuterie and antipasto – Thin slices add variety to any charcuterie or antipasto board. The delicate flavor complements other meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, and more.

• Appetizers – The small champagne bubble slices make unique cocktail party bites or appetizers. Serve on skewers or crackers.

• Sandwiches and paninis – Champagne ham slices elevate any sandwich. The built-in round shapes add intrigue.

• Salads – Diced ham mixes nicely into pasta, potato, green, or grain salads.

• Omelets and bakes – Diced ham can be added to egg dishes like quiche, frittatas, and stratas.

• Soups – Ham adds protein to bean, pea, and potato soups.

So slice it thin for charcuterie, dice it up for salads and omelets, or carve it into impressive whole slices. Champagne leg ham brings elegance and ease to any meal.

Buying and Cooking Your Own

Champagne leg ham can be purchased from specialty meat markets, high-end grocery stores, and online mail order sites. When selecting your ham, look for quality indicators like:

• Deep pink to mahogany red color
• Prominent marbling
• Layer of fat around one third of the cut
• Pleasing, mild ham aroma
• Moist appearance, not dried out

As champagne leg ham is fully cooked, reheating is all you need to do before enjoying it.

To Cook:

• Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a baking dish. Add 1 cup broth or water to pan.

• Loosely tent foil over ham and bake until 140°F internal temperature.

• Remove foil last 15 minutes if adding glaze. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment

Take your champagne leg ham presentation to the next level with these serving suggestions:

• Surround the ham with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. Fruits like pineapple, cherries, and orange slices also make great garnishes.

• Offer a selection of mustards, chutneys, and pickles as condiments to accompany the ham. Honey mustard is a classic pairing.

• Add a decorative bone handle pick before slicing and arranging ham. This highlights the signature bone.

• Serve carved ham slices on a pretty vintage plate or appetizer spread. Garnish with fresh herbs.

• Pair smoked champagne ham with lighter sides like roasted asparagus, creamy risottos, or fresh breads.

• For easy appetizers, wrap melon slices with thin ham and secure with a frilly toothpick.

However you serve it up, champagne leg ham is sure to add a touch of refined sophistication to your table.

Common Questions About Champagne Leg Ham

Many people have questions about this unique type of ham. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

Where does the name come from?

The long, thin shape of the leg bone resembles a tall champagne glass. When sliced across the bone, the rounds mimic rising bubbles.

What is the best way to slice it?

Using a sharp carving knife, slice across the grain in thin rounds to get the signature bubble shape.

What flavors pair well with it?

The milder flavor pairs nicely with sweeter glazes and fruits. Mustard and pickles also complement it.

Can I cook it from frozen?

For safety, thaw frozen ham in the fridge before cooking. Never cook ham directly from frozen.

Is champagne ham better than regular ham?

It comes down to personal preference! The elegance of presentation and subtle flavor makes this a great choice.

How long does cooked champagne ham last?

Store leftovers for 3-5 days maximum in the refrigerator. Freeze for longer storage of 2-3 months.

Can I use a champagne leg for other recipes?

Absolutely! Dice it up to mix into salads, eggs, pasta, soups, and casseroles. The uses are endless.

An Elegant Cut Above the Rest

With its sophisticated appearance, delicate flavor, and celebratory presentation, it’s easy to see why champagne leg ham finds its way onto so many holiday feasting tables. Though it comes at a higher price point than other hams, the luxurious qualities make it well worth the splurge for special occasions. Surround it with beautiful garnishes and carve it into impressive slices to take any meal to the next level. Champagne leg ham is sure to add a touch of class to your menu.