Welcome to our page of Tips & Tricks.  We realize that for some people, pork has not always been their meat of choice, but we want to welcome you to the "Wonderful World of Pork"! Hopefully on this page you will find the answers to some commonly asked questions we receive in the store...so let's get started!

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QUESTION #1:  IF I PURCHASE A PICNIC HAM, HOW LONG SHOULD I COOK IT?

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ANSWER:  Generally speaking, for the size we sell in our store (3-4 lb.) it's very simple.  If you are using the typical roaster pan and cooking it in the oven, just put your thawed ham in your pan with 1/2 - 1 cup of water, adding minced or chopped onion (optional) and cook for approximately 2 hrs. at 350 degrees.  Keep in mind that each oven heats differently and will cook at different rates (gas vs. electric etc...) so you may need to adjust your cooking time.  Be careful not to overcook it.  

     I prefer to cook mine in my slow cooker.  If you want to try that, it's very simple!  Take your thawed picnic ham out of the wrapping and rewrap it in foil.  Put any seasoning in with it and place it in the slow cooker with 1 cup of water.  Cook on high for 1 hr. then set it on low for an additional 5-6 hrs. 

 

 

QUESTION #2:  DO I NEED TO COOK MY HAM SLICES (HAM STEAKS)?

 

ANSWER:  Technically speaking, because they are smoked, they are already partially cooked, but we strongly recommend cooking them fully before eating. 

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QUESTION #4: WHAT IS A PORK CUTLET?

ANSWER:  It's a thinly cut, tenderized boneless chop.  Our cutlets cook up very quickly in your frying pan or on the grill.  Try dipping them in a simple egg wash and breading them with panko breadcrumbs or crushed (flavored or unflavored) pork rinds.  Fry them up and enjoy!!

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QUESTION #5:  WHAT IS A PORK STEAK??

ANSWER:  NEW BULLETIN!!!!  Steak is not exclusive to beef!  A pork steak can be cooked just like a beef steak.  It is not as greasy so please remember to always add liquid whether cooking it in a pan or on your grill (BBQ sauce) and don't overcook. You can always tenderize your steak before cooking.