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Front Hock
The front hock usually comes already brined and smoked, sold as a 'ham hock.' It can also be found fresh and unsmoked.
Cook Time
1-2 hours
Best Cooking Method
Simmering (in stocks), Braising
Price Range
$
About This Cut
Origin
Front leg of the pig
Characteristics
Mostly cartilage and connective tissue with some meat, excellent for building body in stocks
Cooking Tips
The brined and smoked version is perfect for flavoring beans, collard greens, or peas. If you find fresh, uncured hocks, use them for braising or osso buco-style preparations.
Popular Dishes
Ham Hock and BeansCollard GreensPea SoupSplit Pea SoupOsso Buco (Pork Shank)
💡 Pro Tip
Smoked ham hocks are flavor powerhouses. Use them to add depth to soups and bean dishes - one hock can flavor a whole pot!