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Ham, Choosing A

In choosing a ham, look out for one with a smooth skin, sweet smell, and with the flesh adhering firmly to the bone. It is best to probe it with a sharp knife down the knuckle, and near the thigh-bone, and if, when the knife is withdrawn, the smell is fresh and savoury, and the blade clean, the ham is good; if the contrary is the case, it is bad. York hams are generally considered the best.