What to Serve with Uncured Black Forest Ham: Pairings and Platters

Start with the ham itself

Dietz & Watson Uncured Black Forest Ham is a hand-trimmed, antibiotic-free North American pork ham that's slow-smoked with hickory for an artisan Black Forest flavor. It contains no nitrates or nitrites, and it's the centerpiece of any sandwich or charcuterie spread. Because the ham is already smoky and savory, your pairings should complement—not overpower—that flavor.

The ham comes in a standard size, so you can plan your servings around the number of people you're feeding. For a light lunch, count on 2–3 slices per sandwich; for a charcuterie board, 1–2 ounces per person is a good starting point.

What the label tells you

• Dietz and Watson Uncured Black Forest Ham: No antibiotics This is a meaningful choice for shoppers looking for simpler sourcing.

  

• Dietz and Watson Uncured Black Forest Ham: No nitrates or nitrites Many cured meats rely on these preservatives; this ham does not, which affects flavor and your serving considerations.

Ham sandwich ideas that work

The ham's hickory smoke pairs well with mild, creamy, or tangy ingredients. Here are a few combinations to try:

• Classic Swiss and mustard: Swiss cheese's nutty flavor and a sharp Dijon mustard cut through the ham's richness. Use a sturdy bread like rye or sourdough.
• Brie and apple: Creamy Brie and thin apple slices add sweetness and texture. A crusty baguette holds everything together.
• Cheddar and chutney: Sharp cheddar and a spoonful of mango or peach chutney give a sweet-savory contrast. Try it on a toasted English muffin.
• Avocado and tomato: Smashed avocado and sliced tomato bring freshness. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper; a soft roll works well.

Building a Black Forest ham charcuterie board

A charcuterie board is a low-effort way to serve ham to a crowd. Balance the smoky ham with contrasting textures and flavors:

• Cheeses: Include a soft cheese (Brie, Camembert), a hard cheese (Gruyère, aged cheddar), and a blue cheese for variety.
• Breads and crackers: Offer sliced baguette, seeded crackers, and maybe pretzel thins. The ham's flavor stands up to robust breads.
• Condiments: Whole-grain mustard, honey, and fig jam give guests options to customize each bite.
• Accompaniments: Cornichons, olives, fresh grapes, and dried apricots add briny and sweet notes. Nuts like almonds or walnuts add crunch.

Serving and storage notes

The supplied information does not include specific preparation or storage instructions for this ham. As a general rule for sliced deli meat, keep it refrigerated until serving and avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods. For exact storage guidance, check the package label.

When building sandwiches or boards, take out only what you plan to serve. The ham's flavor is best when it's not icy cold, so let slices sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Sandwich vs. board: which to choose

Both are great options, but they suit different occasions.

• Sandwiches: Best for quick lunches, picnics, or packed meals. You control portions and can tailor each sandwich to individual tastes.
• Charcuterie board: Best for parties, gatherings, or leisurely meals. It encourages mixing and matching and feels more festive.

A final note on pairings

The ham's hickory smoke and lack of nitrates make it a versatile ingredient. Whether you're making a simple sandwich or an elaborate board, the key is to balance its savory flavor with creamy, sweet, or acidic components. Use the ideas above as a starting point, then adjust to your taste.