Welcome to JayPo’s Penalty Boxed Lunch, where we explore food from around the country! This week’s 31st official entry is for lovers (Virginia in particular). Country ham may be for lovers, but do you actually love it?
Food History!
When it comes to ham, there isn’t really any in between. You either love it or hate it. Why is Virginia synonymous with country ham? You can find country ham all over the Southern United States, but Virginia in particular has laid claim to the iconic meat. Ham is simply a portion of the pig’s hind leg which is then cured in salt/sugar and various other spices to then be smoked in a smokehouse. This has been a practice in the US since the 1600’s, of which Virginia was one of the first “states” to do so (and taught by the indigenous peoples of the Americas. As the consumer, you then simply heat up your ham in the oven to a desired temp. Many will add additional seasoning and glazes to the heating up process to enhance the flavor further.
How I Made It!
I’m ashamed to say I didn’t cure and smoke my own ham. Smithfield does a lovely country ham that you can even get spiraled for the perfect, consistent slices. It only takes a couple hours to heat up and the glaze they give you is incredible. From there I piled them onto homemade buttermilk biscuits to add to the southern flare. I’m sure you could add some mustard and/or cheese to these, but I enjoyed them as-is. I also make a BOMB mac and cheese, if anyone ever wants a good recipe.
What Does A Local Think? (thanks to our very our Ryan Quigley!)
Do you think the Virginia ham biscuit represents your state accurately?
This sandwich is 100% perfect for Virginia. Virginians love their meat, and it isn’t uncommon for some people to even throw a little bit of deer meat onto their biscuits, as well as a small drizzle of mac and cheese.
How do you make your sandwich?
My sandwiches need all of the ham. If we’re being particular, I prefer throwing some honey ham on that bad boy and going to town. A side of mac and cheese is also a must-have for this five-star dish.
How did I do?
I can’t possibly think of a better option for the signature Virginia sandwich. Knocked this out of the park.
Where do you order your favorite ham biscuit?
I’m going to get dunked on for this but Wawa never disappoints! Typically, though, I’ll just make my own. They’re an excellent dish to bring to parties!
HELP WANTED!
If you are interested in contributing to this series and are from or have lived in (I don’t care how long) the following states, reach out to me via email (jay.polinsky@gmail.com) or DM me on Twitter. Thanks!
Arkansas, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Wyoming
