Country Ham from Cracker Barrel features savory, salt-cured pork slices with a smoky aroma and tender texture, delivering a rich, traditional Southern flavor perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Equipments
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Serving plate
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) country ham slices
- 1 lb (450g) country ham slices
- 1 lb (450g) country ham slices
- 1 lb (450g) country ham slices
- 1 lb (450g) country ham slices
Country Ham from Cracker Barrel is salt-cured for a rich, savory taste with a distinctive smoky aroma that enhances any breakfast or brunch dish. The slices are tender yet firm enough to hold their shape during cooking, making them ideal for skillet frying. Due to its high salt content, it's important to adjust additional seasoning accordingly to avoid overpowering your dish. You can find country ham labeled as "Cracker Barrel style" at specialty meat shops or order it online for convenience. Your copycat Cracker Barrel menu will stand out by using authentic country ham slices that replicate the traditional Southern flavor perfectly.
Instructions
- Place the skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Lay the country ham slices in the ungreased skillet without overlapping.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes on one side until browned.
- Flip the ham slices with tongs.
- Cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
- Transfer cooked ham to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
- Repeat with remaining ham slices as needed.
- Slice on a cutting board if desired.
- Serve hot on a serving plate.
Substitution
Country Ham from Cracker Barrel copycat recipes often call for thick-cut, salt-cured pork slices to replicate the signature smoky and savory flavor. If you cannot find Cracker Barrel brand specifically, any high-quality country ham with similar curing and smoking methods will work well. In a pinch, prosciutto or smoked ham can provide a milder but still flavorful alternative for your breakfast or brunch dishes. Be cautious with salt content when substituting, as country ham tends to be quite salty, so adjust seasoning accordingly to avoid over-salting your dish. Using paper towels to pat the ham dry before cooking helps achieve a nicely browned crust in your skillet or frying pan.
Tips
When cooking Country Ham from Cracker Barrel, avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even browning and proper heat distribution. Use tongs to flip the slices gently to maintain their tenderness and prevent tearing. After cooking, place the ham on paper towels to soak up excess grease, enhancing the final texture and flavor. Your patience during cooking will result in perfectly heated, smoky, and savory ham slices ideal for breakfast or brunch.
Nutritions
Country Ham from Cracker Barrel is a protein-rich option providing essential amino acids for muscle maintenance and repair. Its salt-cured process contributes significantly to sodium content, so you should monitor intake if managing blood pressure. The ham offers moderate fat levels, mainly from saturated fats, which affect heart health when consumed excessively. Including it in your breakfast or brunch can deliver both flavor and nutritional value, supporting your energy needs throughout the day.
Storage
Store your Country Ham from Cracker Barrel in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent drying. Keep the ham slices at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3 to 5 days for optimal taste and safety. For longer storage, freeze the ham slices in a vacuum-sealed bag or freezer-safe container, which will preserve flavor and texture for up to 1 to 2 months.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap country ham for smoked turkey slices to reduce sodium and add a milder smoky flavor. Instead of pan-frying, try baking the ham slices in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 10 minutes for a less greasy option. Marinade the ham briefly in maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness that complements the saltiness. Using a grill pan can also add attractive char marks and intensify the smoky aroma.
Allergies
Country Ham from Cracker Barrel contains pork, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to meat proteins. This product may also contain sodium nitrates and salt, which some people with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities should avoid. If you have known allergies to pork or preservatives, review ingredient details carefully before consuming your country ham.
Why this recipe?
Country Ham from Cracker Barrel is prized for its rich, smoky flavor and perfect balance of salty and savory notes, making it a standout choice on their menu. The ham is traditionally cured and aged, offering an authentic Southern taste that appeals to those seeking comfort food with a nostalgic twist. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy this distinctive flavor at home, customizing the seasoning and cooking method to your preference. Your homemade Country Ham can capture the essence of Cracker Barrel's classic dish while saving costs and tailoring ingredients to your dietary needs.