Whether it's for the holidays or a family gathering, a baked ham is a classic centerpiece that promises comfort, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. In this post, we'll explore how to prepare the best baked ham with a recipe that's both simple to follow and delicious in taste. From selecting the right ham to the final glaze, we've got you covered with every step of the journey to creating the perfect baked ham.
Choosing the Right Ham
Key Factors to Consider:
- Type: You can choose between a city or country ham. City hams are wet-cured, which means they're soaked in brine, making them ready-to-eat but can still be cooked for flavor enhancement. Country hams are dry-cured and require soaking before cooking due to their intense flavor.
- Weight: A good rule of thumb is to have about 1/2 pound per person. So for a small gathering, a 5-7 pound ham would suffice, whereas for larger gatherings, consider an 8-10 pounder.
- Bone-in or Boneless: Bone-in hams often retain more flavor, but boneless are easier to carve and serve.
- Glaze: While some hams come pre-glazed, selecting an unglazed ham gives you more control over the flavors.
Preparing the Ham
Preparing your ham is straightforward:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham, flat-side down, on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. If it's not spiral-cut, score the surface in a diamond pattern to about 1/4-inch deep, but do not cut into the meat.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone if it has one.
- Cover with foil to prevent the surface from drying out.
📌 Note: If using a pre-cooked ham, it's mainly being reheated, which should take about 10-15 minutes per pound.
The Ultimate Glaze Recipe
Now comes the fun part – the glaze! Here's a simple yet delicious glaze that will make your ham shine:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1⁄3 cup of pineapple juice
- 1⁄3 cup of honey
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of ground cloves
Preparation:
- In a saucepan, combine the ingredients over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar is dissolved, and the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Apply the glaze to the ham with a brush 30 minutes before the ham is fully cooked.
Glazing Tips:
- Glaze should be applied when the ham has about 30 minutes of cook time left.
- If your glaze seems too thick, thin it with a bit more pineapple juice.
- Reapply glaze every 10 minutes to ensure a richly flavored crust.
Cooking Times
The cooking time depends on the size of the ham:
| Ham Weight | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 5-7 lbs | 2-3 hours |
| 7-9 lbs | 3-4 hours |
| 9-11 lbs | 4-5 hours |
📌 Note: Remember, the ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Resting and Carving
After the ham has reached the desired temperature:
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist slice.
- Carve the ham starting at the top. If spiral-cut, use the lines of the cuts as a guide. For whole hams, start by removing a portion to create a flat surface, then slice horizontally along the bone.
Your baked ham is now ready to impress your guests. Enjoy the aromas, the flavors, and the satisfaction of a meal well-prepared.
As we wrap up, remember that the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By selecting the right ham, applying a flavorful glaze, and following straightforward cooking and carving instructions, you've unlocked the secret to a timeless dish that's sure to become a family favorite. It's all about savoring the process, sharing the meal, and creating memorable moments around the table.
What is the difference between city ham and country ham?
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City ham, also known as wet-cured ham, is soaked in brine and is often cooked or smoked, making it ready-to-eat or simply heated through. Country ham, on the other hand, is dry-cured with salt and then aged, resulting in a much saltier, more intense flavor that requires soaking before cooking.
Can I cook a spiral-cut ham?
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Yes, you can cook a spiral-cut ham. You should follow the same temperature guidelines, but due to its pre-slicing, it will cook faster and doesn’t need to be scored. Ensure to apply the glaze carefully so that it goes into the slices.
How do I store leftover ham?
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Store leftover ham in the refrigerator, covered or wrapped tightly, for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, where it can last for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently to keep the meat from drying out.
