Smoked chicken ham: a delicious twist on traditional ham

If you're looking for a delicious and unique twist on traditional ham, then smoked chicken ham is the perfect choice. Made from whole chicken instead of the usual pork, this variation offers a lighter and healthier option without compromising on flavor. In this article, we'll explore what smoked chicken ham is, how it's made, and why it's becoming increasingly popular among food enthusiasts.

What is Chicken Ham Made From?

Traditionally, ham is a cut of meat taken from the thigh of the hind leg of certain animals, primarily pigs. However, in the case of smoked chicken ham, the whole chicken is used instead of pork's hind leg. To create this delectable treat, the chicken is soaked in a salt brine for a specific period of time, depending on its weight. After the brining process, the chicken is cooked and/or smoked to enhance its flavor and texture.

The process of making smoked chicken ham involves preparing a brine or curing solution. The brine is made by combining ingredients such as salt, saltpetre, brown sugar, pimento grains, boiled water, and vinegar. The chicken is then thoroughly wiped with vinegar and pierced with a sharp narrow blade knife or injected with the brine using a syringe. The chicken is then submerged in the brine and placed in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks, with regular turning every 3-4 days. Once the brining process is complete, the chicken ham is wrapped and stored in the freezer until ready for use.

Smoked Chicken Ham Recipe

Here's a simple recipe for smoked chicken ham:

Ingredients:

• 12-14 lbs Chicken
• 12 oz Salt
• 2 tbsp Saltpetre
• 2 tbsp Brown sugar
• 1/3 cup Pimento grains
• 3 quarts Boiled water (cooled)
• 1 small bottle of vinegar
• Dried orange peel (pounded to a powder) or nutmeg (optional)

Method:

1. Prepare brine by combining water, salt, saltpetre, sugar, and pimento grains in a deep container.
2. Thoroughly wipe the chicken with vinegar.
3. Pierce the chicken with a sharp narrow blade knife or inject the brine into the flesh using a syringe.
4. Submerge the chicken in the brine.
5. Place the chicken in the bottom of the refrigerator.
6. Turn the chicken every 3-4 days for 2-3 weeks.
7. Remove the wrap and place the chicken in the freezer until ready for use.

Baked Smoked Chicken Ham

Once you have your smoked chicken ham ready, you can prepare it in various ways. One popular method is baking it with a glaze. Here's a simple recipe for baked smoked chicken ham:

Ingredients:

• Smoked chicken ham (prepared using the recipe above)
• Whole cloves
• Pineapple slices
• Red cherries
• For Regular Brown Sugar Glaze:
  • 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
  • 3/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• Or try this Orange Glaze:
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tsp soy sauce

Method:

1. Thaw the smoked chicken ham in the bottom of the refrigerator overnight.
2. Preheat the oven at 178ºC or 325ºF.
3. Wrap the smoked chicken ham in foil.
4. Place the ham on a wire rack in a shallow baking tin with a small amount of water.
5. Bake the smoked chicken ham for 30 minutes per kg.
6. After the baking time, remove the smoked chicken ham from the oven and make diamond-shaped cuts across the surface.
7. Stud the cuts with cloves and brush on the glaze of your choice.
8. Decorate with pineapple slices and cherries.
9. Return the smoked chicken ham to the oven for 10 minutes and bake until golden brown.

Is Chicken Ham Halal?

Halal smoked chicken breast ham is a type of deli meat made from halal chicken breast. It is a popular alternative to pork-based ham for Muslims who follow halal dietary restrictions. Halal smoked chicken breast ham is produced by curing the chicken breast with a blend of salt, sugar, and spices. It is then cooked and smoked to give it a distinct flavor and texture. The resulting meat is thinly sliced and can be used in sandwiches, salads, and other dishes.

Halal smoked chicken breast ham is a lean and protein-rich meat option that can be part of a healthy and balanced diet. It is free from pork and other non-halal ingredients, making it a safe and acceptable choice for those who adhere to halal dietary guidelines.

L'atelier de Noor: A Trusted Producer of Halal Cured Meat

L'atelier de Noor is a French company specializing in the production and distribution of halal cured meat. Based in the Île-de-France region, they offer a wide range of quality halal meats, including beef, lamb, chicken, and turkey. The company is committed to providing fresh, quality products while respecting religious requirements for the slaughter and preparation of halal meat. Their products are a testament to their dedication to excellence and their understanding of the importance of halal food for Muslim consumers.

In Conclusion

Smoked chicken ham is a delicious and unique variation of traditional ham. Made from whole chicken and cooked or smoked to perfection, it offers a lighter and healthier alternative without compromising on taste. Whether you're looking for a new twist on your favorite ham recipes or want to explore new flavors, smoked chicken ham is sure to satisfy your cravings. Try out the recipes mentioned above and experience the delightful taste of smoked chicken ham for yourself!

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