What does uncured mean ham?
To answer the question of whether or not ham is cured, you need to understand exactly what curing is. Curing is the process of preserving meat by dry-curing, brine-curing, or smoking. The goal of curing is to remove moisture and bacteria from the meat, which helps ensure it will last longer and not be susceptible to germs.
What does cured mean ham?
Uncured ham are either salt-cured or smoke-cured. Most pros cut off the shank and leave the rest of the meat on the bone, which helps it keep its shape and gives it a unique taste. After curing, the ham is hung to dry. Depending on the curing method, the ham may be stored in a refrigerator or left at room temperature.
What does it mean to be uncured ham?
The curing process involves treating the meat with salt and sometimes other seasonings, as well as allowing the meat to dry out. During the curing process, salt helps to draw out some of the moisture, which can prevent the growth of bacteria. The longer the cured ham is stored, the stronger the taste and flavor will become.
What does cure mean on ham?
The curing process involves treating the ham with salt, sugar, and sometimes other seasonings, then drying it over a period of time to draw out moisture and develop a salty, sweet flavor. This process helps the ham retain its natural moisture and makes it safe to eat.
What does cured mean in ham?
The curing process for ham involves salting the meat, drying it, and sometimes smoking it. Uncured hams are simply raw, never treated with any form of curing. Cured hams usually have a salty, smoky flavor.