Smoked Ham Hocks
Ham hocks, also called pork knuckles, are cut from the bottom part of the swine's leg. They are thick, approximately four inches long, and part of the leg is encased with collagen, connective tissue, and a bit of meat, all surrounded by a thick layer of fat and skin. Ham hocks are used in cuisines from all over the world, including in the American south where they are commonly cooked with collards or pinto beans. Hocks are sold two (2) per package.
*Please note: This is an average weight range and the final weight may fall outside this estimate. At this time, we can’t do any substitutions. Availability is subject to our stock on hand.
Our Pork
Our pigs are a Berkshire heritage breed pork. They are raised here in Akron, CO on a diet of fresh pasture grasses, grains, and seasonal produce. Pigs only have a single stomach like humans and cannot survive on grass alone. They can eat it, of course. It is not toxic to them. However, they cannot extract the proteins from the grass due to the high fiber content. This is why we supplement with grains. Our pigs live on sheltered pastures with access to sunshine, fresh water, and a constant supply of fresh greens.
What is Berkshire Pork and why all of the hype?
The Japanese name, Kurobuta, means “black pig.” Many of you have probably heard of Wagyu beef, which also hails from Japan. Well, Kurobuta is the Wagyu of the pork industry. In the 1800s, Berkshire hogs were given to the Emperor of Japan as a gesture of goodwill. They were so well received that Japan has had a culinary love affair with Berkshire pork to this day.
USDA Pork Cooking Guidelines
The Japanese name, Kurobuta, means “black pig.” Many of you have probably heard of Wagyu beef, which also hails from Japan. Well, Kurobuta is the Wagyu of the pork industry. In the 1800s, Berkshire hogs were given to the Emperor of Japan as a gesture of goodwill. They were so well received that Japan has had a culinary love affair with Berkshire pork to this day.