Unique holiday dishes: The surprising history behind the Christmas ham tradition

 When you think of Christmas dinner, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the centerpiece of the meal: a beautifully glazed, golden-brown baked ham.

This festive dish has been a staple of holiday feasts for centuries, bridging ancient traditions with modern celebrations. But beyond its rich history and cultural significance, Christmas ham also offers a range of nutritional benefits that make it a healthier choice than you might expect.

The tradition of eating ham during the winter months dates back long before Christmas was even celebrated. In fact, the origins of this festive dish can be traced to the ancient Germanic and Norse pagan traditions of Yule, a midwinter festival honoring the Winter Solstice.

During these celebrations, wild boars were sacrificed as offerings to Freyr, the Norse god of fertility and abundant harvests. The meat from these boars was then prepared and shared among celebrants, becoming a central part of the feast.

As Christianity spread across Northern Europe, the religious significance of the wild boar sacrifice faded, but the tradition of enjoying pork during the winter solstice remained.

By the time Pope Julius I designated Dec. 25 as the official date to celebrate Jesus Christ’s birth in 350 A.D., the custom of eating ham had already become deeply ingrained in wintertime traditions.

Over time, the wild boar was replaced with domesticated pigs, and the dish evolved into the honey-glazed or baked ham that is known and loved today.

Interestingly, the connection between ham and Christmas isn’t just about tradition — it’s also tied to religious identity. In some parts of Europe, particularly Spain, Christians historically ate pork to distinguish themselves from the region’s large Muslim population, who abstain from consuming pork.  

Of course, not every culture celebrates Christmas with ham. In the United Kingdom, turkey reigns supreme as the star of the Christmas dinner table, while in Italy, fish and pasta take center stage. In Sweden, the traditional "julebord" features an array of cured meats, cheeses and fish.

Despite its varying popularity, ham has remained a beloved holiday dish in many Western countries, with Americans alone purchasing over 318 million pounds of ham during the Christmas season.

Nutritional profile of Christmas ham

So, what makes ham such a popular choice for holiday meals? Beyond its rich flavor and festive appearance, ham offers a surprising array of nutrients that contribute to its nutritional value.

A 3.5-ounce serving of cooked ham contains approximately:

• 139 calories
• 22 grams of protein
• 5 grams of fat
• 1 gram of carbohydrates
• 1,290 milligrams of sodium (note that this is over half of the recommended daily value)

While the high sodium content is a drawback, ham is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including:

• Selenium, a powerful antioxidant that supports thyroid function and immune health.
• Thiamin (vitamin B1), which is essential for energy metabolism and brain function.
• Niacin (vitamin B3), which helps convert food into energy and supports skin and digestive health.
• Phosphorus, which is important for bone health and the formation of DNA.
• Vitamins B6 and B12, which are vital for metabolism and maintaining healthy blood and nerve cells.

These nutrients make ham a valuable addition to your holiday meal, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense dishes like vegetables, whole grains and fruits.

Health benefits of Christmas ham

Despite being classified as processed red meat, ham offers several health benefits when consumed in moderation.

High-quality protein

Ham is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining muscle mass and supporting overall health.

Protein also helps keep you feeling full, which can be especially helpful during the indulgent holiday season.

Essential vitamins and minerals

The vitamins and minerals in ham play a crucial role in maintaining optimal health. For example, selenium protects your cells from damage caused by free radicals, while thiamin supports your body’s ability to convert food into energy.

Niacin and phosphorus contribute to healthy skin, digestion and bone strength.

Energy boost

The combination of protein and B vitamins in ham helps your body produce energy more efficiently, making it a great choice for fueling up during busy holiday gatherings.