Discover Why Ham is the Meal of Choice for Easter Dinner

Do you ever wonder where the tradition of eating ham on Easter comes from? Easter is a religious holiday marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Along with the religious observances, many families also have cultural traditions associated with Easter, such as decorating eggs and participating in Easter egg hunts. But why do we eat ham during Easter? Read about  the history of where this classic Easter meal originated and join The Hamlet in celebrating a hoppy ham holiday!

One reason for this tradition can be traced back to historical practices of harvesting hogs during the winter because of the cold weather. Because of the lack of refrigeration, meat preservation techniques were necessary to ensure the meat would last throughout the year. One of the most popular methods was curing the meat by salting and smoking it. This process produced ham, which could  be stored for several months. By the time Easter arrived, the ham was ready to be prepared and served as a celebratory meal. This practice was particularly prevalent in Europe, where Easter was celebrated in the springtime.
Regardless of its historical and cultural significance, the tradition of eating ham on Easter is not limited to religious or cultural reasons. Ham continues to be a common custom today for its delicious flavor and ease of serving a larger crowd. Its versatility allows numerous ways to be enjoyed and used for delicious leftovers, making it a perfect main course for a holiday meal.

While the reasons behind this tradition may vary depending on the culture and time period, the practice of eating ham remains a popular and beloved part of Easter celebrations for many people. Whether you choose to observe this tradition for religious, cultural, or simply culinary reasons, there is no denying that a juicy, Honey Kissed ham makes for a delicious and satisfying Easter meal.