When it comes to cooking a fully cooked ham, many people think that it’s as simple as heating it up in the oven or microwave. However, grilling a fully cooked ham can add a smoky flavor and a caramelized crust that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook a fully cooked ham on the grill, including the benefits of grilling, the equipment you’ll need, and a step-by-step guide on how to achieve a perfectly grilled ham.
The Benefits of Grilling a Fully Cooked Ham
Grilling a fully cooked ham may seem counterintuitive, but it can actually add a lot of flavor and texture to the meat. Here are some benefits of grilling a fully cooked ham:
- Smoky flavor: Grilling a ham over low heat can infuse it with a smoky flavor that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods.
- Caramelized crust: The high heat of the grill can caramelize the sugars on the surface of the ham, creating a crispy and sweet crust.
- Tender and juicy meat: Grilling a ham can help to retain its moisture, making it tender and juicy.
Equipment Needed
Before you start grilling your ham, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Grill: You can use either a gas or charcoal grill to cook your ham. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure to adjust the vents to control the temperature.
- Ham: You can use any type of fully cooked ham, but a bone-in ham is recommended for grilling.
- Grill brush: A grill brush is necessary for cleaning the grates before cooking.
- Meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is necessary for ensuring that the ham is heated to a safe internal temperature.
- Glaze or sauce: A glaze or sauce can add flavor to the ham as it grills.
Choosing the Right Ham
When it comes to choosing a ham for grilling, there are a few things to consider. Here are some tips for choosing the right ham:
- Look for a bone-in ham: A bone-in ham is recommended for grilling because it’s easier to handle and can help to keep the meat moist.
- Choose a ham with a thick glaze: A ham with a thick glaze can help to keep the meat moist and add flavor as it grills.
- Consider the size of the ham: A larger ham may be more difficult to handle and cook evenly, so consider a smaller ham if you’re new to grilling.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling a Fully Cooked Ham
Now that you have the equipment and the right ham, it’s time to start grilling. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook a fully cooked ham on the grill:
Step 1: Prepare the Grill
Before you start grilling, you’ll need to prepare the grill. Here’s how:
- Preheat the grill: Preheat the grill to 325°F (160°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, adjust the vents to control the temperature.
- Clean the grates: Use a grill brush to clean the grates and remove any debris.
- Oil the grates: Use a paper towel dipped in oil to brush the grates and prevent the ham from sticking.
Step 2: Score the Ham
Scoring the ham can help to create a crispy crust and add flavor. Here’s how:
- Use a sharp knife: Use a sharp knife to score the ham in a diamond pattern. Cut about 1/4 inch deep into the meat.
- Score in both directions: Score the ham in both directions, creating a diamond pattern.
Step 3: Glaze the Ham
A glaze or sauce can add flavor to the ham as it grills. Here’s how:
- Choose a glaze or sauce: Choose a glaze or sauce that complements the flavor of the ham. You can use a store-bought glaze or make your own.
- Brush the glaze onto the ham: Use a brush to apply the glaze to the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
Step 4: Grill the Ham
Now it’s time to grill the ham. Here’s how:
- Place the ham on the grill: Place the ham on the grill, fat side up.
- Close the lid: Close the lid and grill for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the ham is heated to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Baste the ham: Baste the ham with the pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and add flavor.
Step 5: Let it Rest
Once the ham is cooked, it’s time to let it rest. Here’s how:
- Remove the ham from the grill: Remove the ham from the grill and place it on a cutting board.
- Let it rest for 10-15 minutes: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you achieve a perfectly grilled ham:
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is necessary for ensuring that the ham is heated to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t press down on the ham: Pressing down on the ham can squeeze out the juices and make it dry.
- Try different glazes and sauces: Try different glazes and sauces to add flavor to the ham.
- Add some wood chips: Adding some wood chips to the grill can add a smoky flavor to the ham.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when grilling a fully cooked ham:
- Overcooking the ham: Overcooking the ham can make it dry and tough.
- Not scoring the ham: Not scoring the ham can prevent the glaze from penetrating the meat.
- Not letting it rest: Not letting the ham rest can make it difficult to slice and serve.
Conclusion
Grilling a fully cooked ham can add a smoky flavor and a caramelized crust that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a perfectly grilled ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right ham, prepare the grill, score the ham, glaze the ham, grill the ham, and let it rest. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time.
What is the best type of ham to grill?
The best type of ham to grill is a pre-cooked, bone-in ham. This type of ham is already fully cooked, so you don’t have to worry about cooking it to a safe internal temperature. Look for a ham that is labeled as “fully cooked” or “pre-cooked” to ensure that it is safe to eat. You can find pre-cooked hams at most grocery stores, usually in the meat department.
When selecting a pre-cooked ham, consider the glaze or flavorings that you want. Some hams come with a pre-applied glaze, while others may require you to add your own. You can also choose from a variety of flavors, such as honey-glazed or brown sugar-mustard. No matter which type of ham you choose, make sure to follow the grilling instructions to achieve a deliciously caramelized crust.
How do I prepare my grill for grilling a ham?
To prepare your grill for grilling a ham, start by preheating it to medium-low heat. You want the heat to be low enough that it doesn’t burn the outside of the ham before it’s fully heated through. While the grill is heating up, make sure to clean the grates with a wire brush to remove any debris or food residue. This will help prevent the ham from sticking to the grates and make it easier to flip.
Once the grill is clean and hot, you can add any wood chips or chunks that you want to use for smoking. You can also brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Finally, make sure to have a meat thermometer on hand to check the internal temperature of the ham. This will ensure that it’s heated through to a safe temperature.
How long does it take to grill a fully cooked ham?
The time it takes to grill a fully cooked ham will depend on the size and shape of the ham, as well as the heat of your grill. As a general rule, you can expect to grill a fully cooked ham for about 20-30 minutes per pound. So, a 5-pound ham would take around 100-150 minutes to grill. However, this time can vary depending on the specific ham and grill you’re using.
It’s also important to note that you’re not cooking the ham from raw, but rather heating it through and caramelizing the outside. This means that you can check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it’s heated through, but you don’t need to worry about cooking it to a specific temperature. Simply grill the ham until it’s nicely browned and caramelized on the outside.
What is the best way to glaze a ham while it’s grilling?
The best way to glaze a ham while it’s grilling is to brush the glaze on during the last 10-15 minutes of grilling. This allows the glaze to caramelize and stick to the ham, rather than burning or dripping off. You can use a variety of glazes, such as a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices, or a pre-made glaze from the store.
To apply the glaze, simply brush it onto the ham using a pastry brush or a spoon. Make sure to get the glaze all over the ham, but avoid applying too much, as this can make the ham too sweet or sticky. You can also apply the glaze in a pattern, such as a diamond shape or a spiral, to add visual interest to the ham.
How do I know when a grilled ham is done?
A grilled ham is done when it’s nicely browned and caramelized on the outside, and heated through to an internal temperature of at least 140°F. You can check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer, which should be inserted into the thickest part of the ham. Make sure to avoid touching any bones or fat with the thermometer, as this can give you an inaccurate reading.
In addition to checking the internal temperature, you can also look for visual cues to determine if the ham is done. A grilled ham should be nicely browned and caramelized on the outside, with a sticky glaze that’s set and caramelized. The ham should also feel hot to the touch, and should be slightly firm to the touch. If you’re unsure whether the ham is done, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and grill it for a few more minutes.
Can I grill a ham at high heat?
While it’s technically possible to grill a ham at high heat, it’s not recommended. Grilling a ham at high heat can cause the outside to burn before the inside is fully heated through, which can result in a dry, overcooked ham. Additionally, high heat can cause the glaze to burn or caramelize too quickly, which can make the ham taste bitter or unpleasant.
Instead, it’s better to grill a ham at medium-low heat, which allows the ham to heat through slowly and evenly. This helps to prevent burning or overcooking, and results in a juicy, flavorful ham. If you’re looking for a crispy, caramelized crust on your ham, you can always finish it off at high heat for a few minutes, but be careful not to burn the ham.
How do I store a grilled ham after it’s been cooked?
After a grilled ham has been cooked, it’s essential to store it properly to keep it fresh and safe to eat. The best way to store a grilled ham is to let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent moisture from accumulating on the surface of the ham, which can cause it to become soggy or develop off-flavors.
Once the ham is wrapped, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. If you’re freezing the ham, make sure to label it with the date and contents, and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to serve the ham, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then slice and serve.