Waffle House City Ham Price, Nutrition, and Gluten Information
Waffle House’s City Ham is a staple for many breakfast enthusiasts. Its rich flavor and versatility make it a popular choice among diners. Let’s delve into what makes this menu item stand out and how it compares to its counterpart, Country Ham.
City Ham
$4.20 | 110 Cal
What is City Ham?
Waffle House City Ham is a wet-cured ham, typically brined in a solution of water, salt, and sugar, then smoked for added flavor. This process results in a moist, tender ham with a milder taste compared to dry-cured hams. At Waffle House, the City Ham is hickory-smoked, enhancing its savory profile.
Nutritional Information
A 3-ounce slice of Waffle House City Ham contains:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Total Fat | 2.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 30 mg |
| Sodium | 740 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
This makes it a protein-rich option, suitable for those monitoring their calorie intake.
Also read: Waffle House Pecan Waffle
City Ham vs. Country Ham
While both are beloved Southern staples, they differ in preparation and taste:
- Curing Process:
- City Ham: Wet-cured in brine, then smoked.
- Country Ham: Dry-cured with salt and aged for several months.
- Flavor Profile:
- City Ham: Mild and moist with a subtle sweetness.
- Country Ham: Intensely salty with a robust, aged flavor.
- Texture:
- City Ham: Tender and juicy.
- Country Ham: Firm and chewy.
Country Ham’s bold taste is often an acquired preference, while City Ham offers a more universally appealing flavor.
Serving Suggestions at Waffle House
City Ham pairs excellently with various menu items:
- All-Star Special: Combine with eggs, toast, and hashbrowns for a hearty meal.
- Grits Bowl: Add chopped City Ham for extra protein and flavor.
- Waffles: Balance the sweetness of waffles with the savory ham.
Its versatility allows diners to customize their meals to their liking.
Dietary Considerations
- Gluten-Free: City Ham itself is gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible. Inform staff of any dietary restrictions.
- Allergens: May contain soy. Always check with the restaurant for the most current allergen information.
Waffle House-Style City Ham Recipe
- Yields: 4 servings
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 slices of boneless, pre-cooked city ham (about ¼–½ inch thick)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional for a sweet touch)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (to give a hint of smokiness if you don’t have a smoker)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional glaze)
- Splash of water or apple juice (for searing)
Equipment
- Non-stick or cast iron skillet
- Tongs
- Small bowl (for mixing spices/glaze)
- Stove
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ham
If your city ham is thick-cut, pat it dry with a paper towel for better searing. Mix the brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl.
Tip: If you’re using unseasoned city ham, you can brine it overnight in a mix of water, salt, and sugar for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Season the Ham
Sprinkle the spice mixture over both sides of the ham slices. Don’t go overboard — city ham is already cured and slightly salty, so you’re just adding depth.
Step 3: Sear It Waffle-House Style
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the butter and let it melt, then quickly place the ham slices in the pan.
- Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until a nice golden-brown crust forms and it’s heated through.
- Add a splash of water or apple juice and cover for 30 seconds to gently steam and keep it moist.
Want to go full diner-style? Use a griddle and get those char marks going.
Step 4: Optional Glaze Finish
For a sticky-sweet finish, brush the top with Dijon mustard mixed with a pinch of brown sugar during the last minute of searing. It caramelizes beautifully.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Plate it hot with:
- A sunny-side-up egg
- Golden hashbrowns
- A crispy waffle with butter & syrup
- Or make a biscuit sandwich
Pro Tip: Add chopped city ham into scrambled eggs or cheese grits for a next-level Southern breakfast.
Storage
- Store cooked ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a little moisture to prevent drying out.
Where to Buy City Ham
You can find city ham pre-sliced or whole at:
- Grocery stores: Look for labels like “Smoked Ham,” “Brined Ham,” or “City Ham”
- Butchers or deli counters
- Online Southern markets (like Edwards Virginia Smokehouse or Broadbent’s)
Bonus Variation: Baked City Ham Steak
If you’re not a fan of pan-searing, try baking:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Place ham slices in a baking dish with a little water or pineapple juice
- Cover with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes
Conclusion
Waffle House’s City Ham is a flavorful, protein-packed option that complements a variety of dishes. Its milder taste and tender texture make it a favorite among patrons. Whether you’re a long-time fan or trying it for the first time, City Ham is a delicious addition to any meal.
Also read: Waffle House Texas CheeseSteak Melt Price
