National Ham Day

Delighted family gathering around a mouth-watering ham, beautifully glazed and surrounded by colorful vegetables, in a cozy farmhouse kitchen.. — National ham day illustration

Get ready to ham it up because National Ham Day is here! It's time to celebrate all things pork-tastic and savor the deliciousness of ham. Whether you prefer it in your sandwiches, as a centerpiece for a meal, or even in your breakfast omelet, this is the day to show some love to this tasty cured meat. So let's dive right into the history and fun facts of National Ham Day!

When is Ham Day?

It's national ham day on the 15th April.

The Origins of National Ham Day

While National Ham Day may seem like an ancient celebration that traces back to the days of cavemen drying meat over a fire, it actually has a more recent origin. The earliest mentions of this ham-tastic day can be traced back to internet posts from April 15, 2019. That's right, folks! It's a relatively new addition to the national day calendar but has quickly gained popularity among food enthusiasts and pork lovers alike.

If you're wondering who exactly declared this day as a national holiday, well, that remains a mystery. It's one of those phenomena that appeared out of thin air and captured the hearts of ham lovers everywhere. But hey, who needs an official proclamation when we can all rally together and celebrate the deliciousness of ham?

How to Celebrate National Ham Day

Celebrating National Ham Day is as easy as pie, or should we say, as easy as thinly sliced ham on a sandwich. Here are a few mouthwatering ideas to make your day extra special:

Host a Ham-tastic Brunch: Invite your friends and family over for a morning feast featuring all things ham. From ham and cheese quiches to ham and pineapple skewers, there's no shortage of delicious options.
Try a New Recipe: Challenge yourself to step out of your culinary comfort zone and try a new ham recipe. Maybe it's a glazed ham with a bourbon-infused sauce or a fancy ham and cheese stuffed chicken breast. The possibilities are endless!
Visit a Local Butcher: Support your local butcher shop and pick up some premium ham cuts. Not only will you get to enjoy the finest quality, but you'll also be supporting small businesses in your community.

Did You Know?

Did you know that ham is a staple in many cuisines around the world? From the famous Italian prosciutto to the Spanish jamón ibérico, cured hams have been beloved delicacies for centuries. Each region has its own unique curing methods, resulting in a variety of flavors and textures. So, the next time you sink your teeth into a succulent slice of ham, remember that you're indulging in a timeless culinary tradition!

History behind the term 'Ham'

1600

The origin of the term 'ham'

The term 'ham' originated in the 1600s from the Old English word 'hamm,' which referred to the hog's hind leg that was preserved through salting or smoking. It was a common practice in Europe to preserve pork this way for later consumption.

1700

The rise of 'ham' in the English language

By the 18th century, the term 'ham' became widely used in the English language to refer to the cured hind leg of pork. Its popularity grew alongside the growth of pig farming and the development of various curing methods.

1843

First documented use of 'ham' in a recipe

In 1843, the first documented use of 'ham' in a recipe was published in the book 'Modern Cookery for Private Families' by Eliza Acton. This cookbook included a recipe for 'ham boiled with cider' and helped popularize the use of ham in culinary preparations.

1891

Ham as an American staple

Ham became a staple food in American cuisine during the late 19th century. Immigrants brought their traditional methods of curing and cooking ham, and it quickly became integrated into American cooking, particularly in the Southern states.

1902

The rise of canned ham

In 1902, the first commercial canning of ham began in the United States. This innovation made ham more accessible and further popularized its consumption. Canned ham became a convenient and long-lasting option for households.

20th century

Ham in popular culture

Throughout the 20th century, ham was featured prominently in popular culture, especially in the United States. It became a symbol of holiday feasts, breakfast meals, and sandwich fillings. Additionally, the phrase 'ham actor' emerged to describe someone who overacts or seeks attention on stage or screen.