Cooking ham in the oven is a classic method that yields delicious results. The process involves preparing the ham, selecting a glaze, and baking it to perfection. To cook a fully cooked ham, preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C), place the ham in a roasting pan, and bake for about 10 minutes per pound.
For those seeking a flavorful twist, scoring the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern before applying a glaze can enhance the taste. Popular glaze options include brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup mixtures. The glaze not only adds flavor but also creates an appealing caramelized exterior.
Proper cooking techniques ensure a juicy and tender ham. Covering the ham with foil for most of the cooking time helps retain moisture. During the final 30 minutes, removing the foil and increasing the oven temperature to 425°F allows the glaze to caramelize. Letting the ham rest for 20 minutes after cooking makes carving easier and helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Selecting the Perfect Ham
Choosing the right ham is crucial for a successful oven-cooked meal. Consider factors like size, type, and preparation method to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Types of Ham and Their Characteristics
City ham is the most common variety, wet-cured and often pre-cooked. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Country ham is dry-cured and saltier, with a more intense taste. Fresh ham is uncured and requires thorough cooking.
Smoked ham offers a rich, smoky flavor. It’s available in various wood flavors like hickory or applewood. Spiral-sliced ham comes pre-cut for convenience but may dry out more quickly during cooking.
Bone-In vs Boneless Ham
Bone-in ham provides more flavor and moisture. The bone can be used for soups or stocks after cooking. It’s harder to carve but often preferred for its superior taste.
Boneless ham is easier to slice and serve. It’s more uniform in shape, making it simpler to calculate cooking time. However, it may lack some of the flavor depth of bone-in varieties.
Understanding Ham Labels
- Fully cooked: Safe to eat without further cooking, but heating improves flavor
- Partially cooked: Must be fully cooked before eating
- Uncooked: Requires thorough cooking to a safe internal temperature
Look for labels indicating curing method, smoking process, and any added water content. “Ham with natural juices” contains minimal added water, while “ham and water product” has more.
Check the expiration date and storage instructions. Some hams require refrigeration, while others can be stored at room temperature until opened.
Preparation Before Cooking
Proper preparation is crucial for cooking a delicious ham. Careful handling and thoughtful pre-cooking steps ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Thawing and Handling
If using a frozen ham, thaw it in the refrigerator. Allow 4-5 hours per pound for complete thawing. Never thaw ham at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
Once thawed, remove the ham from its packaging. Rinse it under cool water and pat dry with paper towels. This removes any excess brine or packaging residue.
Handle the ham with clean hands and utensils to prevent contamination. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to start cooking.
Pre-Cooking Preparation
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature ensures even cooking without drying out the ham.
Score the ham’s fat layer in a diamond pattern. Make shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart. This allows heat to penetrate and fat to render.
Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. For added flavor, stud the ham with whole cloves at the intersections of the scored lines.
Optional: Apply a glaze before cooking. Mix honey, brown sugar, and mustard for a classic sweet glaze. Brush it over the ham’s surface.
Seasoning and Glazing Techniques
Seasoning and glazing are essential steps for creating a flavorful, moist ham. These techniques enhance the meat’s taste and appearance, turning a simple roast into a showstopping centerpiece.
Choosing a Glaze
A classic ham glaze typically combines sweet and tangy elements. Brown sugar forms the base of many glazes, providing caramelization and depth. Honey or maple syrup can be used as alternatives.
For acidity, apple cider vinegar or pineapple juice work well. Mustard adds a zesty kick and helps emulsify the glaze. Spices like cinnamon, cloves, or ginger introduce warmth and complexity.
Pineapple glaze offers a tropical twist. Mix crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and a splash of rum for a Hawaiian-inspired flavor profile.
Applying the Glaze
Start by scoring the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Apply the glaze in stages. Brush on the first layer about 30 minutes before the ham is done cooking. Remove the ham from the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F.
Brush on additional layers every 10 minutes, allowing each to set slightly. This creates a beautifully lacquered finish.
For added flavor, stud the ham with whole cloves at the intersections of the scored diamonds before glazing.
Alternative Seasoning Options
Dry rubs offer a different approach to seasoning ham. Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper for a savory-sweet blend.
Herbs can impart fresh flavors. Rosemary, thyme, and sage work well with pork. Chop them finely and mix with olive oil to create an herb paste.
For a smoky flavor, add liquid smoke to your glaze or rub. Use sparingly as it’s quite potent.
Fruit preserves make excellent glazes. Apricot, cherry, or fig preserves can be thinned with a bit of vinegar or citrus juice for easy application.
Cooking the Ham
Proper cooking techniques ensure a juicy, flavorful ham. The key factors are temperature control, accurate monitoring, and strategic use of foil.
Oven Temperature and Cooking Time
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) for optimal ham cooking. For a pre-cooked ham, allow about 10-15 minutes per pound. A 10-pound ham will need roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.
Raw hams require 20-25 minutes per pound. Always check the packaging for specific instructions, as times may vary based on ham type and size.
Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan. This position helps retain moisture during cooking.
Using a Meat Thermometer
An instant-read thermometer is crucial for perfect doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding bone or fat.
For pre-cooked hams, aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Raw hams should reach 145°F (63°C).
Check the temperature 30 minutes before the estimated cooking time ends. This allows for adjustments if needed.
Aluminum Foil Use
Wrap the ham loosely in aluminum foil before baking. This traps moisture and prevents the exterior from drying out.
Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the surface to brown. This step is ideal if you’re applying a glaze.
For larger hams, create a foil tent instead of wrapping. This provides more even heating and easier access for basting or temperature checks.
Serving and Presentation
Proper serving and presentation elevate the ham dining experience. Attention to carving technique and complementary side dishes ensures a memorable meal.
Carving Tips
Start by placing the ham on a sturdy cutting board. Use a sharp carving knife for clean, even slices. Begin at the narrow end, cutting perpendicular to the bone. Aim for thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick, for optimal texture and flavor.
For spiral-sliced hams, simply cut along the pre-sliced lines. Boneless hams are easier to carve; slice from one end to the other in uniform pieces.
When serving, arrange slices neatly on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for visual appeal.
Accompaniments and Side Dishes
Pair ham with classic side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Creamy scalloped potatoes or sweet potato casserole complement the savory meat. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add color and nutrition.
For a touch of sweetness, serve applesauce or cranberry sauce. A fresh green salad balances the richness of the ham.
Consider serving rolls or biscuits to soak up juices. For beverages, white wine or apple cider pair well with ham.
Plan for about 1/2 pound of bone-in ham per person for a main dish. This ensures enough for the meal and leftover ham for sandwiches or other recipes.
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage techniques ensure leftover ham stays fresh and flavorful. The ham bone can be repurposed for delicious soups and broths.
Proper Storage Techniques
Store leftover ham in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Fully cooked ham will stay fresh for 3-5 days when refrigerated at 40°F or below.
For longer storage, freeze leftover ham. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging or place in airtight containers. Frozen ham maintains quality for 1-2 months.
Label containers with the date to track storage time. Thaw frozen ham in the refrigerator before use.
Ham Bone Uses
Don’t discard the ham bone – it’s packed with flavor. Use it to make hearty soups, stews, or broths. Add the bone to a pot with vegetables, herbs, and water to create a rich stock.
Simmer the ham bone with split peas for a classic pea soup. Or use it in bean soups for added depth and smoky flavor.
Store the ham bone in the freezer for up to 2 months if not using immediately. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
Ham for Special Occasions
Ham often takes center stage at holiday gatherings, particularly for Easter and Christmas celebrations. Its versatility and ability to feed large groups make it an ideal choice for special events.
For Easter, a honey-glazed ham adorned with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries creates a festive centerpiece. The sweet glaze complements the savory meat, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
Christmas ham recipes frequently incorporate seasonal spices like cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. A popular technique involves studding the ham with whole cloves before baking, infusing the meat with aromatic flavors.
Holiday hams can be customized with various glazes:
- Brown sugar and mustard
- Maple and bourbon
- Orange marmalade
- Apple cider
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, consider spiral-sliced ham. This pre-cut option simplifies serving and allows the glaze to penetrate between the slices, enhancing flavor throughout.
Leftover ham from special occasions can be repurposed into delicious dishes:
- Ham and bean soup
- Quiche Lorraine
- Ham salad sandwiches
- Scalloped potatoes with ham
When preparing ham for a special occasion, allow 1/3 to 1/2 pound per person for bone-in hams, and 1/4 to 1/3 pound for boneless varieties. This ensures ample portions for guests and potential leftovers.
