There are so many things to think about: what’s the occasion, what’s more affordable, what your guests want—are you team ham or turkey? Which are you grabbing first?
Ham and turkey are both excellent choices for the holidays this time of year. Ultimately, it comes down to taste, but I’ll assess which dish is superior and why in this post. In addition, I’ll offer some suggestions for how to cut costs and save time, as well as what to do with leftovers.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food. While turkey is the traditional centerpiece of the holiday, ham is increasingly becoming a popular alternative. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why ham might be the perfect choice for your Thanksgiving table.
Juicier and More Flavorful:
Ham naturally has a higher fat content than turkey, making it less prone to drying out during cooking. This results in a juicier, more flavorful experience. Additionally, ham offers greater versatility in terms of flavor profiles. You can choose from a variety of glazes, crusts, and seasonings to customize the taste to your liking.
Easier and Quicker to Cook:
Ham requires less time and attention in the kitchen compared to turkey. Precooked or cured ham only needs about 12 minutes per pound of cooking time, making it a convenient option for busy hosts. Fresh ham, while requiring a longer cooking time, is still less demanding than turkey, as it doesn’t require basting or constant monitoring.
More Versatile and Budget-Friendly:
Ham pairs well with a wider range of side dishes and accompaniments than turkey, allowing for greater flexibility in menu planning. Additionally, ham is often more affordable than turkey, especially when considering precooked or cured options.
Leftovers with Endless Possibilities:
Ham leftovers offer a plethora of delicious possibilities. From sandwiches and salads to casseroles and soups, the versatility of ham ensures that you can enjoy its flavor long after Thanksgiving dinner.
While turkey remains a beloved Thanksgiving tradition ham presents a compelling alternative. Its juicier texture, richer flavor easier preparation, and versatility make it a strong contender for the starring role on your holiday table. Whether you choose ham or turkey, the most important thing is to gather with loved ones and enjoy the spirit of Thanksgiving.
Additional Considerations:
- Pre-brined turkey: If you’re considering a pre-brined turkey, remember to check the label for added ingredients. Pre-brined turkeys may already contain salt and other seasonings, so additional brining could result in an overly salty bird.
- Cooking time: Always refer to the specific instructions for your chosen ham or turkey. Cooking times can vary depending on the size, type, and cooking method.
- Food safety: Ensure proper food handling and cooking temperatures to prevent foodborne illness. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of your turkey or ham before serving.
Resources:
- Vincent’s Meat Market: https://vincentsmeatmarket.com/why-to-choose-ham-over-turkey-for-thanksgiving/
- The Ninja Cue: https://theninjacue.com/turkey-or-ham-which-one-should-i-serve/
By considering these factors and exploring the resources provided, you can make an informed decision about the perfect protein for your Thanksgiving celebration.
How long should I thaw a whole turkey?
Three days before cooking, I suggest putting the frozen turkey in the refrigerator. Usually frozen solid, the body cavity takes longer than you might imagine. Slowly thawing the bird will also improve the meat’s texture.
Thanksgiving Turkey time saving tips
See my guide to cooking store-bought smoked turkey legs. If that enormous bird is overwhelming you, there are other turkey options! Turkey breasts and even smoked turkey legs are huge crowd pleasers!
You might be surprised by the results of my four cooking methods test!
Why would I cook another protein, you ask? Take a moment to recall your past Thanksgivings. How much turkey was consumed? How much ham was consumed?
Most people will almost certainly grab a forkful of Thanksgiving turkey and a large slice of smoked ham.
Prioritize the ham. It’s meaty. It’s the sister to bacon. It produces delicious leftovers that are ideal for the day after, like these ham and cheese sliders with cranberry sauce.
You can also use ham slices to improve other recipes, such as smoked green bean casserole. Introduce them to the ham if you want to improve their vegetable game.
Food Theory: STOP Eating Thanksgiving Turkey!
FAQ
Why should you eat ham instead of turkey on Thanksgiving?
What makes ham better than turkey?
What is more popular on Thanksgiving turkey or ham?
What is better for you turkey or ham?
Is Turkey better than Ham?
Overall, turkey is recommended over ham for nutrition. However, this is based on sodium content. Ham is very high in sodium, but it is rich in zinc, potassium, and iron. Ham has been used for generations to add salt and flavor to other dishes. That being the case, be very careful adding additional salt to ham and to dishes that you’ve added ham to.
Is a ham or Turkey better for Thanksgiving?
The idea of a slow-roasted, juicy turkey that’s been brining for hours (or perhaps just removed from the deep-fryer) is the epitome of Thanksgiving. Still, some argue that a honey-glazed, savory ham is the perfect holiday meal. Turkey goes with popular sides like gravy and stuffing, but ham is more versatile when it comes to leftovers.
Is ham good for Thanksgiving?
Ham is a delicious, savory food that is perfect for a variety of occasions, including Thanksgiving dinner. The salty, savory flavor of ham is a perfect complement to the sweet, rich flavor of Thanksgiving dinner. Furthermore, ham is a much more affordable option than turkey, making it a great choice for families on a budget.
Is Ham a good alternative to Turkey?
Here are a few reasons why ham might be the perfect option: 1.Ham is a delicious alternative to turkey. If you’re looking for a change of pace, ham is a great option. It’s a delicious, savory alternative to the traditional Thanksgiving turkey. Many people enjoy the salty, smoky flavor of ham, and it pairs well with a variety of side dishes.