10 Best Christmas Hams in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian
Yuletide celebrations aren't complete without the perennial centerpiece - Christmas ham. Whether chicken, pork, boned or boneless, there is a wide array of options that suits different taste buds and caters to any budget.
Here’s the good news! This holiday must-have can be purchased online and can be delivered right to your doorstep. To help you decide on what to serve on your Noche Buena, we have prepared a buying guide, reviewed by nutritionist-dietitian Samantha Morales, as well as a list of the best Christmas hams in the Philippines!
Samantha began her career in clinical nutrition and weight management at a tertiary hospital in Manila, Philippines. Her practice allowed her to give nutrition counseling and plan modified diets for patients with medical conditions. Presently, she does private practice to focus on true holistic wellness - an approach that believes in aligning one's mind, body, and spiritual well-being.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
How to Choose a Christmas Ham - Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
Choose between bone-in ham or boneless ham
Pick a flavor according to your taste preference
Consider the meat-to-fat ratio of the ham
Know the amount of ham to purchase
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Choose Between Bone-In Ham or Boneless Ham
One of the basic differences between Christmas hams is in terms of presentation and structure, wherein the two basic types are bone-in and boneless ham. The former is more exquisite and preserves the flavor more but the latter is convenient to slice and usually cheaper and effortless to serve on the table.
Bone-In Ham for a Traditional Christmas Feel
You have probably seen a bone-in ham in Christmas-themed movies. This is typically their preferred ham as this is more appealing to the eye, giving you that warm Christmas feel. Most importantly, it is more succulent because the bone maintains the meaty flavor and moisture. Bone-in ham flaunts a rich taste coming from the bone.
However, this is challenging to slice since you will be working around the bone. This might take a long time before serving. Here is a helpful tip: once you're already done carving, keep the leftover bone, and use it to make a simple yet savory ham and bean soup.
Boneless Ham Is Easier to Prepare
If you prefer an easy-to-prepare dish, opt for a boneless ham. It is more convenient to slice too. This processed ham is sealed securely to preserve the look and taste. Given that this is processed, the ham is not quite flavorful and may appear dry. But when it comes to hassle-free preparation, boneless ham is your best bet.
Pick a Flavor According to Your Taste Preference
the next thing to think about is the flavor of the ham. There is a wide array of available taste profiles of Christmas hams so that consumers get the chance to choose their preferred flavors. Let us help you pick the right ham that your family will surely like.
Pineapple and Honey Glazed Ham for That Sweet and Salty Kick
The sweetness of the pineapple and honey neutralizes the ham's saltiness, making it a more enjoyable dish, especially for the little ones. That is exactly why brands offer cured ham with pineapple glaze or sauce, which is a total best-seller as most Pinoys love this best combo because of its sweet, salty, and meaty flavor.
Chinese-Style Ham for Smoky and Salty Flavor
With the meaty and smoky taste of Chinese-style ham, you'll be able to indulge in the full-on flavor of ham in every bite. This specialty takes a long cooking process to assure that the meat is packed with deep flavors of seasonings and spices. So, if you opt to serve a flavorsome ham, this is the ideal choice to satisfy everyone’s palate.
Chicken Ham is a Healthier Option
If you're looking for less fatty ham or something new to your taste buds, try out a chicken ham, catered to those who are watching their diet. Instead of pork leg, this is made with boneless chicken, perfectly seasoned with sweet and salty flavors. Filipino recipes also add pineapple to this to balance the taste.
Consider the Meat-to-Fat Ratio of the Ham
Hams usually have a bit of fat because it contributes to the rich and tender flavor. If you don't eat fat due to health concerns, consider one with a substantial ratio of meat compared to the thin layer of fat. On the other hand, if you choose to indulge during the Christmas season, just be mindful of the amount of fat you will consume.
Know the Amount of Ham to Purchase
Whether it is a simple or big celebration, choosing the right ham size is still crucial so everyone can have a taste with equal portions of this Noche Buena must-have. One ham ball is sufficient for this celebration if you're celebrating with 4 to 6 people. However, for big families, this might not be enough so opt to buy a whole bone-in ham or a 1-kilo ham.
10 Best Christmas Hams to Buy Online
| Products | Image | Click to purchase | Popularity | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Flavor | Meat Type | Meat-to-Fat Ratio | Taste Profile | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Fiesta Ham Pre-Sliced 1.5kg Purefoods |  | No.1 | Boneless | Pineapple | Pork | 85% Lean | Sweet, Savory | 1.5 kg | |
2 | Holiday Ham Pre Sliced 1kg CDO |  | No.2 | Boneless | Pineapple | Pork | unknown | Sweet, Savory | 1 kg | |
3 | Premium Hind Leg Whole Ham 1.5 kg Ranch House |  | No.3 | Boneless | Natural | Pork | 90% Lean | Savory | 1.5 kg | |
4 | Premium Glazed Ham Mrs. Garcia's |  | No.4 | Boneless | Caramelized Sugar and Spice | Pork | 85-88% Lean | Sweet, Savory, Smoky | 1 kg | |
5 | Premium Ham 1kg Top Meat |  | No.5 | Boneless | unknown | Pork | unknown | Savory | 1 kg | |
6 | Hawaiian Ham 1kg CDO |  | No.6 | Boneless | unknown | Pork | unknown | Sweet, Savory | 1 kg | |
7 | Holiday Ham Whole 1kg CDO |  | No.7 | Boneless | Pineapple | Pork | unknown | Sweet, Savory | 1 kg | |
8 | Pear Shaped Ham 800g CDO |  | No.8 | Boneless | unknown | Chicken | unknown | Sweet | 800 g | |
9 | Jamon De Bola 1kg Swift |  | No.9 | Boneless | unknown | Pork | unknown | Sweet, Savory | 1 kg | |
10 | Smoked Ham Mrs. Garcia's |  | No.10 | Boneless | Brown Sugar | Pork | unknown | Salty, Smoky, Sweet | 1 kg | |
PurefoodsFiesta Ham Pre-Sliced 1.5kg
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Pineapple |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | 85% Lean |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, Savory |
| Net Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Pineapple |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | unknown |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, Savory |
| Net Weight | 1 kg |
Ranch House Premium Hind Leg Whole Ham 1.5 kg
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Natural |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | 90% Lean |
| Taste Profile | Savory |
| Net Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Caramelized Sugar and Spice |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | 85-88% Lean |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, Savory, Smoky |
| Net Weight | 1 kg |
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | unknown |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | unknown |
| Taste Profile | Savory |
| Net Weight | 1 kg |
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | unknown |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | unknown |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, Savory |
| Net Weight | 1 kg |
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Pineapple |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | unknown |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, Savory |
| Net Weight | 1 kg |
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | unknown |
| Meat Type | Chicken |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | unknown |
| Taste Profile | Sweet |
| Net Weight | 800 g |
Boneless round ham cured with Spanish-style seasonings for a sweet and spicy bite
Made in the Philippines by RFM's Swift, a processed-meat brand present for over 35 years
1 kg size fits small to medium gatherings and works sliced for sandwiches, rice meals, or buffet trays
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | unknown |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | unknown |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, Savory |
| Net Weight | 1 kg |
| Type | Boneless |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Brown Sugar |
| Meat Type | Pork |
| Meat-to-Fat Ratio | unknown |
| Taste Profile | Salty, Smoky, Sweet |
| Net Weight | 1 kg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
How to Cook Christmas Ham?
Christmas hams are already pre-cooked but are usually sold frozen or chilled. Of course, you won't serve it as is. One option is to pan-fry it if you want the ham to be crispy and a bit smokier. Another trick is to heat it up in the oven including the honey glaze for even cooking from the outside skin to the meat inside.
Where to Buy Christmas Ham?
Christmas hams can now be bought on online platforms like Shopee and Lazada, which is convenient because you don't need to join in the holiday rush in physical stores. On the other hand, if you're concerned about how the condition will be preserved during delivery, try going to a grocery or meat shop nearest you.
How Long Does Christmas Ham Last Unopened?
Unopened Christmas ham can last for about two weeks inside the refrigerator and can even go for at least a month or so when stored in the freezer. Packages often indicate the "best before" or expiration date, along with storage instructions. It is best to follow them to prolong the shelf life of the ham.
More Refreshing Beverages to Pair Up With Christmas Ham
Of course, Christmas ham and other Noche Buena staples are best enjoyed with a glass or two of alcohol. You don't need to stray any further as we've linked up the articles on the best drinks to pair with your meal like flavored beers, red wines, and white wines. Cheers and be merry!
Author: Bettina Tan
Re-editor: Patricia Catimpo
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
