Understanding the Types of Ham
When you approach the meat counter or refrigerated aisle, the options for ham can seem overwhelming. Understanding the basic categories will help you narrow down your search for the best grocery store ham to buy. The most common types available are city ham and country ham, which differ primarily in their curing process. City hams are wet-cured in a brine, making them milder, moister, and typically pre-cooked for convenience. Country hams, on the other hand, are dry-cured with salt over a longer period, resulting in a more intense, salty, and savory flavor. They are often sold uncooked and require soaking before preparing.
Within the city ham category, you'll find a variety of styles. Spiral-cut hams are a popular choice for holiday feasts, pre-sliced for easy serving and often including a glaze packet. Boneless hams offer ultimate convenience, as they are easier to carve and require less space. Bone-in hams, while requiring more work, often deliver a richer flavor and can be used for making stock or soups afterward. For everyday use, deli ham is available pre-sliced for sandwiches and salads.
Comparing Cured vs. Uncured
The label "uncured" can be misleading, as these hams still undergo a curing process, but they use natural nitrites derived from ingredients like celery powder instead of synthetic ones. Cured hams typically use sodium nitrite for preservation, which gives them their characteristic pink color and salty flavor. For some shoppers, the distinction between these methods is a major factor in their purchasing decision.
Popular Grocery Store Ham Brands
Many national and store brands offer high-quality hams. Here is a breakdown of some frequently reviewed brands to help you decide what is the best grocery store ham to buy.
- Honey Baked Ham Co.: A standout brand known for its distinctive crunchy, sweet glaze and moist, tender meat. It's often priced higher than other store brands but receives consistent praise for its texture and flavor.
- Kirkland Signature (Costco): Costco's spiral-sliced ham is a popular and budget-friendly option, especially for feeding a crowd. It offers great value and a reliably good taste.
- Smithfield: A widely available brand that offers a range of options, from bone-in spiral cuts to smaller ham steaks. Smithfield is a long-standing producer with products frequently found in most grocery stores.
- Cook's: This brand is known for its fully cooked hams, available in bone-in or boneless varieties. It's a reliable, mid-range choice for many families.
- Farmland: Like Cook's, Farmland offers convenient, fully cooked and cubed ham products, making it a good option for smaller meals or recipes.
- Store-Specific Brands (e.g., Aldi, HEB): Many store-brand hams offer a great value proposition. Taste tests have shown they can compete with, and sometimes rival, more expensive competitors, though they may not be identical.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Ham
To ensure you pick the right ham, consider these key factors:
- For a centerpiece meal: A bone-in, spiral-cut city ham is the classic choice for holidays. It has a beautiful presentation and rich flavor. Brands like Honey Baked, Kirkland, or Smithfield are excellent options here.
- For sandwiches and recipes: Boneless or cubed ham is far more convenient. Deli counter hams from brands like Boar's Head are also a great choice for freshly sliced meat.
- For convenience: A pre-cooked, boneless ham or spiral-cut ham is your best bet. Look for “fully cooked” or “ready to serve” on the label.
- For budget: Store brands like Kirkland or Aldi often provide excellent quality for a lower price point than name brands.
- For flavor intensity: A country ham will have a much saltier, more robust flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, stick with a city ham.
Comparison Table: Popular Grocery Ham Features
| Feature | Bone-In Spiral-Cut Ham | Boneless Ham | Deli Ham | Country Ham |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High (pre-sliced) | Very High (easy to carve) | Highest (pre-sliced) | Low (requires soaking and cooking) |
| Flavor | Rich, smoky flavor from the bone | Milder, consistent flavor | Mild, can vary by brand | Intense, salty, smoky |
| Texture | Tends to be moist, with good fat marbling | Tends to be uniform and tender | Very tender, can be processed | Drier, more dense and meaty |
| Price | Moderate to High | Moderate | Moderate to Low (per pound) | Often most expensive (specialty) |
| Best For | Holiday centerpiece | Everyday meals, easy carving | Sandwiches, salads, quick meals | Gourmet enthusiasts, specialty dishes |
Conclusion
Deciding what is the best grocery store ham to buy depends on your specific event and taste preferences. For a traditional holiday feast with a show-stopping centerpiece, a spiral-cut, bone-in city ham from Honey Baked Ham Co. or Costco's Kirkland brand is an excellent choice. If convenience and ease of carving are your top priorities, a boneless ham is the way to go. For those seeking maximum flavor and a traditional, saltier profile, a country ham is unmatched, although it requires more preparation. Regardless of your selection, paying attention to the label—checking for curing method and added water content—and considering your budget will lead you to the perfect ham for your next meal.
For more detailed information on different ham varieties, you can consult reliable resources such as the guide from The Kitchn on choosing a holiday ham.
