Cooked ham is an Italian cured meat made from pork, specifically from the rear leg of the pig, which is salted, seasoned and then cooked. It is a fundamental element of Italian cuisine and is appreciated for its delicate flavor, its soft texture and its characteristic aroma.
How to consume cooked ham
Cooked ham is a versatile food that can be enjoyed in various ways:
You can eat it sliced, which is the simplest and most classic way to enjoy cooked ham is to slice it thinly and consume it on its own, perhaps accompanied by fresh bread or breadsticks.
Generally the typical ingredient of Italian appetizers, often served in combination with cheeses, grilled vegetables or olives. But it can also be used to enrich first courses, such as pasta, risotto or savory pies, or as the main ingredient for second courses, such as scallops with cooked ham or cooked ham rolls.
It is also one of the main toppings, perhaps even the most popular for pizza, giving a tasty and irresistible flavor.
Tips for choosing and storing
You should always choose a high quality cooked ham, coming from reliable producers and made with selected meats. It is therefore important to carefully read the label to verify the ingredients, origin and production method.
Cooked ham should be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in parchment paper or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. And to always remain fresh, sliced cooked ham should be consumed within a few days to preserve its freshness and flavour.
What does cooked ham contain?
Cooked ham is a food rich in proteins and other important nutrients, such as iron and zinc. However, it also contains a moderate amount of cholesterol, approximately 60 mg per 100 g of product.
For people with high cholesterol, consumption of cooked ham should be moderate and careful.
Here are some useful tips for consumption
You should choose a ham with a lower amount of saturated fat and sodium. Check the nutrition label and prefer products with a fat content of less than 5 g per 100 g and sodium content of less than 500 mg per 100 g.
It is preferable to consume moderate portions of cooked ham, no more than 2-3 times a week. A 50-70g serving is generally considered sufficient.
Obviously, cooked ham should be included in an overall healthy and balanced diet, rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and legumes, combining it with other foods that can help reduce cholesterol, such as fresh vegetables, wholemeal bread or dried fruit.
In addition to the consumption of cooked ham, it is important to keep other risk factors for high cholesterol under control, such as smoking, sedentary lifestyle and being overweight.
In general, if you have high cholesterol, it is advisable to consult your doctor or a dietician to receive a personalized assessment and to define an adequate dietary plan.
