This process draws out moisture and deepens the flavor and color. Canned ham is a boneless cured ham section that is canned, vacuum-sealed, and then fully cooked. A small amount of natural unflavored dry gelatin may be added before sealing to absorb the ham's natural juices. Smoked ham gets its luscious taste from natural or liquid smoke. Various woods, such as hickory, oak, apple, and pecan, add flavor notes.
Fresh ham is an uncured cut that tastes like a fresh pork roast.
These cuts are sold with or without the bone, and even as boneless steaks and roasts. Country ham is saltier and drier than mainstream supermarket hams. A Smithfield ham is a famous style produced in Smithfield, Va., and is usually aged at least six months for excellent flavor. Whichever style you choose, the beauty of a ham is that you can let the oven do the work while you set the table and make the side dishes. And with a ham front and center, everything else, no matter how simple, automatically looks good.