When it comes to cooking ham shank, using an instant pot can be a time-saving and convenient option. The instant pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that allows you to cook a variety of foods quickly and efficiently. However, knowing the right cooking time is essential to ensure that your ham shank is delicious and tender.

The cooking time for ham shank in an instant pot can vary depending on the size and thickness of the meat. As a general rule of thumb, you should cook a ham shank for about 25-30 minutes per pound. Keep in mind that these times are approximate, and it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Before cooking the ham shank in the instant pot, it’s important to properly prepare it. You can enhance the flavor by marinating the meat overnight or applying a dry rub. Additionally, you can add ingredients like onions, garlic, herbs, and spices to the instant pot for added flavor.

Once you have prepared the ham shank, you can place it in the instant pot with a cup of liquid. This can be water, broth, or a combination of both. The liquid will help to ensure that the meat stays moist and tender during the cooking process.

After cooking the ham shank in the instant pot, it’s crucial to let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat. Whether you’re preparing a holiday meal or a delicious weeknight dinner, the instant pot is a great tool for cooking ham shank.

How to Cook Ham Shank in Instant Pot: A Step-by-Step Guide

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If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook ham shank, look no further than your Instant Pot. This handy kitchen appliance can help you quickly and easily cook a tender and flavorful ham shank. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a mouthwatering dish that your family and friends will love.

Ingredients:

To cook ham shank in an Instant Pot, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 ham shank
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika

Instructions:

Follow these step-by-step instructions to cook ham shank in your Instant Pot:

  1. Place the Instant Pot on the counter and plug it in.
  2. Add 2 cups of water to the Instant Pot.
  3. Place the ham shank in the Instant Pot, making sure it is fully submerged in the water.
  4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the pressure valve is set to the sealed position.
  5. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
  6. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for 15 minutes. Then, carefully use the quick release method to release any remaining pressure.
  7. Open the lid of the Instant Pot and carefully remove the ham shank using tongs.
  8. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  9. Brush the ham shank with olive oil and sprinkle it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  10. Place the seasoned ham shank in a baking dish and bake it in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the exterior is crispy.
  11. Remove the ham shank from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  12. Serve the ham shank hot with your favorite side dishes.
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Conclusion:

Cooking ham shank in an Instant Pot is a convenient and delicious way to prepare this flavorful dish. By following these simple steps, you can create a tender and juicy ham shank that will be the centerpiece of your meal. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering ham shank!

Prepare the Ham Shank

Before cooking the ham shank in an Instant Pot, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare it:

1. Clean the Ham Shank

Begin by rinsing the ham shank under cold water to remove any debris or excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels.

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2. Score the Skin

Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the ham shank in a crisscross pattern. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat and ensure a crispy skin after cooking.

3. Season the Ham Shank

Generously season the ham shank with your desired spices and herbs. Popular choices include black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub the seasoning into the skin and meat, making sure to cover it evenly.

4. Let it Rest

Once seasoned, let the ham shank rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat further.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your ham shank is ready to be cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot!

Season the Ham Shank

Before cooking the ham shank in the Instant Pot, it is important to season it to enhance the flavor. This can be done by following these steps:

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Ingredients:

  • 1 ham shank
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Dried thyme

Instructions:

  1. Start by rinsing the ham shank under cold water to remove any excess juices.
  2. Pat the ham shank dry using paper towels.
  3. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt all over the ham shank. This will help to season the meat and enhance its flavor.
  4. Next, sprinkle black pepper on all sides of the ham shank to add a hint of spiciness.
  5. Finally, sprinkle dried thyme evenly over the ham shank. Thyme adds an aromatic and earthy flavor to the meat.

Once the ham shank is seasoned, it is ready to be cooked in the Instant Pot. The seasoning will penetrate the meat during the cooking process, resulting in a delicious and flavorful ham shank.

Add Liquid to the Instant Pot

When cooking a ham shank in the Instant Pot, it is important to add enough liquid to ensure that the meat stays moist and tender throughout the cooking process. The liquid also helps to infuse the ham with additional flavors.

The amount of liquid you need will depend on the size of the ham shank and your personal preference. As a general rule, you should add at least 1 to 2 cups of liquid to the Instant Pot.

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Recommended Liquids

There are several options for liquid that you can add to the Instant Pot when cooking a ham shank:

  1. Water: This is the simplest and most readily available liquid to use. It will provide the necessary moisture for cooking the ham.
  2. Chicken, vegetable, or beef broth: Using broth will add additional flavor to the ham. You can use store-bought broth or make your own.
  3. Apple juice or apple cider: This sweet and tangy liquid will give the ham a delicious flavor profile.
  4. Pineapple juice: This tropical juice pairs well with ham and adds a hint of sweetness.
  5. Beer or white wine: These alcoholic beverages can add a unique flavor to the ham. Choose a beer or white wine that complements the ham’s taste.

Regardless of the liquid you choose, make sure to add enough to cover at least half of the ham shank. This will help to ensure that the ham stays moist and flavorful during cooking.

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Cook the Ham Shank in the Instant Pot

When it comes to cooking a ham shank in the Instant Pot, it’s all about time and technique. Here’s how to cook a delicious ham shank using your Instant Pot:

1. Prepare the Ham Shank:

Start by rinsing the ham shank under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. If desired, trim any excess fat from the shank. Season the shank with your favorite spices or a ham seasoning blend.

2. Sear the Ham Shank:

Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add a tablespoon of cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the ham shank in the pot and sear it on all sides until it’s browned. This step will add extra flavor to the ham.

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3. Add Liquid:

Remove the ham shank from the pot and set it aside. Add a cup of liquid to the Instant Pot, such as water, chicken broth, or apple juice. This liquid will help create steam and prevent the ham shank from drying out.

4. Pressure Cook:

Place a trivet or a steamer basket inside the Instant Pot. Carefully place the ham shank on top of the trivet or steamer basket. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode. Cook the ham shank for about 20 minutes per pound at high pressure. For example, a 3-pound ham shank would require about 60 minutes of cooking time.

5. Natural Release:

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Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position.

6. Serve:

Remove the ham shank from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the tender and flavorful ham shank as a main dish or use it in various recipes.

Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ham shank. It’s always recommended to check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe minimum temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Natural Release and Resting Time

After the ham shank is cooked in the Instant Pot, it is important to allow for a natural release and resting time to ensure the meat is tender and juicy.

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A natural release involves letting the pressure inside the Instant Pot release on its own, which can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes. This method helps avoid overcooking the ham shank and allows for a more even distribution of juices throughout the meat.

Once the natural release is complete, it is recommended to let the ham shank rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist ham shank.

  • Allowing for a natural release and resting time is crucial in achieving the best texture and taste for the ham shank.
  • Skipping these steps may result in a tougher and dryer ham shank.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the ham shank reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving.

Q&A

How long should I cook a ham shank in an instant pot?

To cook a ham shank in an instant pot, you should cook it for about 20-25 minutes per pound. So, if your ham shank weighs 4 pounds, you would cook it for 80-100 minutes.

Can I cook a ham shank in an instant pot?

Yes, you can definitely cook a ham shank in an instant pot. It’s a great way to cook it quickly and easily while still keeping it moist and flavorful.

What is an instant pot?

An instant pot is a popular kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, and more. It’s great for cooking meals quickly and efficiently.

Can I use a slow cooker instead of an instant pot to cook a ham shank?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker instead of an instant pot to cook a ham shank. However, it will take longer to cook in a slow cooker compared to an instant pot. You would typically cook it on low for about 8-10 hours.

How should I season a ham shank before cooking it in an instant pot?

Before cooking a ham shank in an instant pot, you can season it with a variety of spices and herbs. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and black pepper. You can also add a glaze or sauce to enhance the flavor.

How long does it take to cook ham shank in an instant pot?

The cooking time for a ham shank in an instant pot depends on the size and thickness of the shank. Generally, it takes about 30-40 minutes per pound of ham shank. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Can I cook a ham shank in an instant pot?

Yes, you can cook a ham shank in an instant pot. The instant pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to cook a variety of dishes, including ham shanks. It is a convenient and efficient way to cook ham shank, as it helps to lock in the flavors and moisture of the meat.