Holstein Kate Ham

Holstein Kate Ham
Curing MixPorkCold SmokingHard21-28 daysN/A15-25 °CBeech

Holstein Kate Ham is a traditional raw ham from Schleswig-Holstein, cold-smoked over beechwood. It is characterized by its strong smoky aroma and dark brown crust. The long maturation period of several weeks gives it its distinctive, intense flavor.

Ingredients(for 1 kg)

Curing salt (nitrite)35 g
Black pepper, coarsely ground4 g
Sugar3 g
Juniper berries, crushed2 g
Bay leaves, crumbled1 g
Coriander seeds, ground1 g

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Instructions

1

Preparation & Curing

14 days

Mix all curing ingredients and massage evenly into the ham. Place the meat in a vacuum bag or sealed container and store in the refrigerator at 4–6 °C. Turn daily and do not drain any resulting liquid.

2

Equalization

2–3 days

Remove the ham from the brine, briefly rinse, and pat dry. Hang in a cool, well-ventilated place at approx. 10–15 °C so the salt distributes evenly through the meat and the surface dries out.

3

Cold Smoking

7–10 days (8 hours daily)

Cold smoke the ham at a maximum of 25 °C over beechwood chips. Smoke for 8 hours daily, then allow at least 12 hours of rest. The smoking temperature must not exceed 25 °C, otherwise the ham will start to cook.

4

Maturation

4–6 weeks

After the last smoking session, mature the ham in a cool, dark place with good air circulation at 10–15 °C and 70–80% humidity. The ham will lose further moisture and develop its full flavor.

Pro Tip

Between individual smoking sessions, the ham should hang for at least 12 hours in a cool, airy place so the smoky aroma can settle evenly and the surface does not become too bitter.

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