Is a pork hock the same as a ham hock?

[Njchicaa]

I have a corn chowder recipe that calls for a ham hock. I could only find raw pork hocks at the store, though. Can I use that or am I way off here?

[kengk]

I would substitute bacon myself if I couldn't find smoked hocks. Or jowl.

[Njchicaa]

We have a smoker. Smoking them isn't an issue. We can do that.

[kengk]

Now that should be excellent. I wouldnt put a real heavy smoke on them Have to really be careful here with hocks from the grocery. Sometimes they are getting a little rancid. Can smell it through the wrapping.

[Njchicaa]

Smoked them today over hickory. After cooling them, one went into the corn chowder and the other was frozen for future use.

My husband was beyond thrilled with the corn chowder. He's already planning another batch since we have another smoked hock waiting in the freezer.

Thanks for the advice everyone!

[sunshine842]

Or just ham...

[sunshine842]

it's the same cut -- but a ham hock is salt- and/or smoke-cured...you might find you'd need to add more salt to your chowder (and/or a little liquid smoke) -- but other than that it will be no issue.