⭐ Premium Quality Block Ham: The Japanese Gold Standard for Sandwiches and Dinner Plates
Introducing a truly high-quality protein staple: the ITO HAM JAS Tokkyu (Special Grade) White Loin Ham. This is not your average deli ham! This approximately 500g block is a consistently popular item among international shoppers at Costco.
What is JAS Tokkyu?
JAS (Japanese Agricultural Standard) Tokkyu is a highly coveted designation, meaning this ham has passed strict criteria for a high proportion of actual meat and limits on secondary ingredients. It guarantees a superior, authentic taste and texture.
This Loin Ham uses the pork loin, which is leaner than the belly cut, offering a delicate, balanced flavor and a fine, firm texture perfect for everything from sandwiches to a main course.
🌟 Why This Ham Block is a Pantry Essential
1. Superior Meat Quality
The Cut: Made from the pork loin, known for being lean, tender, and having a desirable ratio of fat and red meat.
JAS Tokkyu: This special certification ensures you are buying a product of outstanding quality, often used for premium gifting in Japan.
2. Ultimate Customization (The Block Advantage)
Versatility: The block form allows you to cut the ham exactly how you need it: paper-thin for charcuterie, medium slices for sandwiches, or thick steaks for a quick dinner.
Size: At around 500g, it’s a good value purchase for high-quality meat.
💡 Usage Hacks & Storage Tips
The Ham Steak Hack
Quick Dinner: Slice the ham 1 cm (about 1/2 inch) thick. Sear it quickly in a hot pan with a dab of butter until golden brown on each side. Serve with honey mustard or pineapple relish for a classic American-style Ham Steak.
Flavor Boost: Dice into cubes and add to pasta sauces, especially carbonara or mac and cheese, for a burst of savory flavor.
Freezer Hack (Managing the Block)
Pre-slice for the Freezer: Slice the entire block immediately into portions for your intended uses (thin slices, thick steaks, cubes). Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a single freezer bag.
Serving Tip: Defrost thick ham steaks overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture. Thin slices can often be thawed quickly on a warm plate.
🌐 Reviews Highlight
"The difference in quality between this JAS ham and typical deli meat is huge. It has a beautiful, fine texture and a clean, less salty taste. Perfect for simple sandwiches."
"This is my go-to ham block at Costco. I slice it thick for breakfast and thin for my kids' lunchboxes. The size is excellent for the price."
"I use the thick slices to make a lazy Eggs Benedict—just sear it lightly instead of using Canadian bacon. It's fantastic."
📋 Product Information at a Glance
Net Weight: Approx. 500g
Style: JAS Special Grade (Tokkyu) White Loin Ham Block
Meat Cut: Pork Loin
Simplified Ingredients (English Translation):
Pork Loin, Salt, Sugar (Corn Syrup), Seasonings, Phosphates, Antioxidants, Sodium Nitrite, Coloring.
