Hams picnics

A picnic ham, also called a pork shoulder, is an American specialty especially popular throughout New England. Though not technically actual hams, picnic hams goes through a smoking process that makes them taste similar to ham. Picnic hams are usually served glazed or barbecued, making it a popular summer staple of New England and Southern cuisine in the United States.

The term "ham" is usually applied to the meat taken from a pig's back legs. Picnic hams are instead taken from the front leg and shoulder area. They are often slightly more tough and require a longer cooking time than traditional ham. Expert butchers note that there is also more waste in the butchering process, as the bone structure of the shoulder requires additional carving.