What is ham hock?

Also known as 'pork knuckle', ham hock is the joint which attaches a pig's foot to the leg. This cut of meat has a strong smoky flavour which lends itself well to terrines, stews, risottos and pies as well as salads. It is a relatively affordable cut of meat and can normally be found at most butchers and supermarkets. Due to containing a high proportion of tendons, skin and ligaments, ham hock normally requires slow cooking to tenderise it.

Best ham hock recipes

Ham hock terrine

This classic starter or light lunch takes some time to make but is extremely effective – ham hock and homemade piccalilli are a match made in heaven.

Smoky ham hock and root veg stew

Curl up on the sofa with a warm bowl of this comforting ham hock stew, perfect for when the nights start drawing in. This wholesome soup is packed full of flavour and wholesome ingredients.

Ham hock, cider and green peppercorn pie

This is a delicious, warming pie. If you want to skip cooking the ham hocks, some butchers and supermarkets sell them ready-cooked at the deli counter to save you time and effort.

Ham Hock and Cider Pie with Green Peppercorns

Pea and ham risotto

The sweet and salty contrast between ham hock and frozen peas makes the perfect pairing in this summery risotto dish.

Two plates of risotto topped with peas and ham and resting on a weaved table mat

Ham hock terrine with spiced pineapple-ginger relish

A terrific ham hock terrine that would be perfect for a buffet or as a make-ahead dish for last-minute guests. The spicy ginger and pineapple relish makes a great accompaniment to any Boxing Day table of cold cuts and cheeses.

Spinach, mascarpone and ham hock rotolo

Spirals of salty ham hock, creamy mascarpone and spinach create this showstopping pasta bake. Everyone will be coming back for seconds of this mouth-watering wintry dish.

Spinach Rotolo Recipe with Ham Hock and Mascarpone

Crispy spud salad with sauerkraut, ham hock and peas

This simple salad with salty ham, crispy potatoes and tangy sauerkraut is a delicious mix of flavours and textures. Throw together golden roasties, delicate lambs lettuce, chunks of ham and a Dijon mustard dressing.

Pea and Ham Hock Salad Recipe with Crispy Spuds and Sauerkraut

Ham hock and pea croquettes

These ham hock and pea croquettes make the perfect accompaniment to drinks. Try to use a whole ham hock for this so that you can keep the pieces really chunky. Butchers and larger supermarkets sell them ready-cooked.

Quick pickled courgette, ham hock, pea and goat's cheese salad

Add peas and pickled courgettes for a punch of summer sweetness to this fresh and vibrant dish packed with shredded ham hock. Put a seasonal twist on this humble ingredient.

Ham hock rillettes with pistachio salt

This recipe for ham hock rillettes with pistachio salt comes from Salt and Honey in London and makes a great dinner party starter. They're easy to make in advance and assemble 20 minutes before serving.

Ham hock terrine with piccalilli

A really good terrine is a wonderful thing and although it takes a little effort it's absolutely worth it. Make this one up to 2-3 days ahead and keep chilled. Ask the butcher if the hocks need overnight soaking. Use a good bought piccalilli to serve alongside.

Ham hock, pea and spring onion salad

Super-quick, simple and delicious, this ham hock, pea and spring onion salad is perfect for a midweek meal. It's ready in just 10 minutes and is well under 500 calories but doesn't feel like you're missing out.

Smoked ham hock and barley risotto primavera

The best recipe for slow-cooked risotto primavera. First cook the ham hock then shred the meat and create this indulgent (but quite easy) barley risotto. The spring veg work a treat with the ham. Worth every bit of effort.