Ham hock refers to the lower portion of a hog's hind leg, often used to flavor soups, beans, vegetables and stews. Moreover, it is a pork cut taken from the ankle joint on the leg of a pig, usually the foreleg. Ham Hocks are available fresh, smoked or cured. The Hock is used to flavor soups, stews, collard greens, and other slow-cooked or boiled dishes. This piece of meat may also be referred to as a cut from the shank or a shank cut.