Yunnan and Jinhua Ham

China produces some of the best hams in the world. In China you will see preserved whole Yunnan and Jinhua (from Zhejiang province) hams hanging in food shops, but the ham is also available in cans. It is a popular staple, used as seasoning or in many Chinese dishes as an ingredient. Unfortunately, it is not obtainable in the West. I find Italian prosciutto and American Smithfield hams acceptable substitutes for the wonderfully rich, smoky-flavoured Chinese hams. Sold in Chinese markets in slices or large pieces, it will keep for months tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. If a small amount of mold appears on the skin, simply scrape it away or cut it off. Use the ham as a flavouring or seasoning.