There’s nothing quite like the smell of homemade ham filling the kitchen—the kind that takes you right back to Grandma’s house. Tender, juicy, and full of rich flavor, this recipe has been passed down for generations, using only simple, wholesome ingredients. No preservatives, no shortcuts—just real, honest food made with love.
What You’ll Need
- 1 kg (2.2 lb) fresh pork (shoulder or leg)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds or ½ teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 bay leaf
- A few fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
- 2 cups water
How Grandma Made It
- Prepare the Meat
Wash and pat dry the pork, then rub it well with salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, and mustard. Massage the seasonings into the meat—Grandma always said, “The flavor listens to your hands.” - Rest and Marinate
Place the seasoned meat in a covered dish and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours, or overnight. This helps the flavors soak deep into the meat. - Slow Cooking Time
The next day, place the meat in a pot with 2 cups of water, bay leaf, and herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for about 1.5–2 hours, turning occasionally. You can also roast it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 90 minutes. - Cool and Slice
Let it cool completely before slicing—it will hold together better and be wonderfully juicy.
The Taste of Home
The result? Tender, aromatic ham that tastes just like Grandma used to make—perfect on sandwiches, with eggs, or simply sliced with mustard and bread.
✅ Tip: Keep it refrigerated and use within a few days. You can even freeze slices for later. Every bite brings back that warm, comforting taste of family, simplicity, and love. ❤️
