Ham Stock

A rich and flavorful stock made from meaty smoked ham shanks, aromatic vegetables, and herbs. Perfect as a base for soups, stews, and other dishes.

8 servings
2 hr 10 min

Ingredients

  • pounds meaty smoked ham shanks
  • 2 quarts cold water
  • 1 large onion
  • 2 whole carrots
  • 2 ribs celery
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 3 whole cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon black peppercorns

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Combine ham shanks and cold water in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot and bring to a boil, skimming any foam. Add remaining ingredients and simmer, partially covered, until shanks are tender, about 2 hours. Pour stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a large metal bowl, reserving shanks and discarding remaining solids.

    120 min

  2. 2.

    Discard skin and bones from shanks. Trim and coarsely shred meat, then return to stock.

    10 min