Cooking a ham on a BBQ can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to outdoor cooking. However, with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can achieve a deliciously glazed and perfectly cooked ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook a ham on a BBQ, from preparation to serving.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of ham for your BBQ. There are several types of hams available, including bone-in, boneless, smoked, and cured. For a BBQ, a bone-in ham is ideal, as it provides more flavor and texture.
When selecting a ham, look for one that’s labeled “BBQ-ready” or “glaze-ready.” These hams have already been cured and are ready to be cooked. You can also opt for a fresh ham, but it will require more preparation and cooking time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ham
- Size: Choose a ham that’s the right size for your BBQ and the number of guests you’re serving. A 5-7 pound ham is ideal for a small gathering, while a larger ham may be needed for a bigger crowd.
- Type: As mentioned earlier, a bone-in ham is ideal for a BBQ. However, if you prefer a boneless ham, look for one that’s labeled “BBQ-ready.”
- Curing: If you’re looking for a more traditional ham flavor, opt for a cured ham. However, if you prefer a milder flavor, a smoked ham may be a better option.
Preparing the Ham for BBQ
Once you’ve chosen your ham, it’s time to prepare it for the BBQ. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Score the Ham
Scoring the ham involves making shallow cuts on the surface of the meat. This helps the glaze penetrate the meat and creates a more even texture. To score the ham, use a sharp knife and make cuts about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
Step 2: Apply a Dry Rub (Optional)
If you want to add extra flavor to your ham, apply a dry rub before cooking. A dry rub is a mixture of spices and herbs that’s rubbed onto the surface of the meat. You can use a store-bought dry rub or create your own using a combination of spices and herbs.
Step 3: Let the Ham Sit at Room Temperature
Before cooking the ham, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the meat cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside.
Cooking the Ham on the BBQ
Now that the ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it on the BBQ. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Preheat the BBQ
Preheat the BBQ to 325°F (160°C). If you have a gas BBQ, use the temperature control to set the temperature. If you have a charcoal BBQ, adjust the vents to achieve the desired temperature.
Step 2: Place the Ham on the BBQ
Place the ham on the BBQ, fat side up. If you have a bone-in ham, place the bone side down. Close the lid and let the ham cook for about 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Step 3: Glaze the Ham
After the ham has cooked for about 30 minutes, it’s time to glaze it. A glaze is a sweet and sticky sauce that’s brushed onto the surface of the meat. You can use a store-bought glaze or create your own using a combination of ingredients like brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
To glaze the ham, brush the glaze onto the surface of the meat, making sure to cover it evenly. You can use a pastry brush or a mop to apply the glaze.
Step 4: Finish Cooking the Ham
After glazing the ham, continue cooking it for another 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you achieve the perfect BBQ ham:
- Use a water pan: A water pan can help keep the ham moist and add flavor to the meat. Place the water pan on the BBQ and add your favorite ingredients, such as onions, carrots, and celery.
- Add wood chips: Wood chips can add a smoky flavor to the ham. Place the wood chips on the BBQ and close the lid to allow the smoke to penetrate the meat.
- Use a BBQ sauce: If you prefer a BBQ sauce instead of a glaze, apply it to the ham during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the ham: Overcooking the ham can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham and avoid overcooking it.
- Not scoring the ham: Scoring the ham helps the glaze penetrate the meat and creates a more even texture. Make sure to score the ham before cooking it.
- Not letting the ham sit at room temperature: Letting the ham sit at room temperature helps the meat cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside.
Serving the Ham
Once the ham is cooked, it’s time to serve it. Here are some ideas for serving the ham:
- Slice the ham thinly and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and corn.
- Use the ham as the centerpiece for a buffet. Slice the ham and arrange it on a platter with your favorite sides and condiments.
- Serve the ham with a side of BBQ sauce or glaze. This allows your guests to add extra flavor to their ham.
Ham Serving Ideas
| Serving Idea | Description |
| — | — |
| Ham and Cheese Sandwiches | Slice the ham thinly and serve it on a bun with cheese, lettuce, and tomato. |
| Ham and Veggie Kabobs | Alternate chunks of ham with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Brush with BBQ sauce and serve. |
In conclusion, cooking a ham on a BBQ can be a rewarding experience, especially when you follow the right techniques and use the right ingredients. By choosing the right ham, preparing it properly, and cooking it to perfection, you can achieve a deliciously glazed and perfectly cooked ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
What type of ham is best suited for BBQ cooking?
When it comes to choosing a ham for BBQ cooking, it’s essential to select a type that’s specifically designed for this method. A bone-in, smoked, or cured ham is ideal, as it will hold up well to the heat and smoke of the BBQ. Avoid using a fresh or raw ham, as it may not be safe to eat after cooking.
Some popular types of ham for BBQ cooking include spiral-cut hams, bone-in hams, and country-style hams. These hams are typically pre-cooked, which makes them easier to cook on the BBQ. You can also consider using a ham with a glaze or rub already applied, which can add extra flavor to your dish.
How do I prepare my ham for BBQ cooking?
Before cooking your ham on the BBQ, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Start by removing any packaging or wrapping from the ham. If your ham has a glaze or rub, you can leave it on or remove it, depending on your preference. If you’re using a bone-in ham, you may want to score the fat layer in a diamond pattern to help the heat penetrate more evenly.
Next, place the ham on a large piece of aluminum foil or a heatproof tray, cut side down. This will help prevent the ham from sticking to the BBQ grates and make it easier to remove. You can also add some wood chips or chunks to the BBQ to give your ham a smoky flavor.
What temperature should I cook my ham at on the BBQ?
The ideal temperature for cooking a ham on the BBQ will depend on the type of ham you’re using and your personal preference. As a general rule, you’ll want to cook your ham at a medium-low heat, around 225-250°F (110-120°C). This will help prevent the ham from drying out and promote even cooking.
If you’re using a spiral-cut ham, you may want to cook it at a slightly higher temperature, around 275-300°F (135-150°C). This will help caramelize the glaze and add a crispy texture to the ham. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C).
How long does it take to cook a ham on the BBQ?
The cooking time for a ham on the BBQ will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using. As a general rule, you’ll want to cook your ham for around 15-20 minutes per pound. So, a 5-pound (2.3 kg) ham would take around 75-100 minutes to cook.
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C). You can also check the ham’s internal temperature by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part of the ham. Make sure to let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Can I add a glaze or rub to my ham during BBQ cooking?
Yes, you can add a glaze or rub to your ham during BBQ cooking. In fact, this is a great way to add extra flavor to your dish. You can apply a glaze or rub to the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking, or you can brush it on during the last 10-15 minutes.
Some popular glaze ingredients include brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and fruit preserves. You can also use a store-bought glaze or rub, or create your own using a combination of spices and herbs. Make sure to apply the glaze or rub evenly, using a brush or spoon to coat the entire surface of the ham.
How do I prevent my ham from drying out during BBQ cooking?
To prevent your ham from drying out during BBQ cooking, it’s essential to keep it moist. You can do this by applying a glaze or rub, which will help lock in moisture. You can also use a meat mallet or tenderizer to pound the ham and help it cook more evenly.
Another way to keep your ham moist is to use a water pan on the BBQ. This will help add moisture to the air and prevent the ham from drying out. You can also cover the ham with foil during cooking, which will help retain moisture and promote even cooking.
Can I cook a ham on a gas BBQ or charcoal BBQ?
Yes, you can cook a ham on either a gas BBQ or charcoal BBQ. Both types of BBQs can produce great results, but they’ll require slightly different cooking techniques. Gas BBQs are generally easier to use and provide more consistent heat, while charcoal BBQs can add a smoky flavor to your ham.
If you’re using a gas BBQ, make sure to preheat it to the correct temperature and use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches a safe internal temperature. If you’re using a charcoal BBQ, make sure to adjust the vents to control the heat and add wood chips or chunks to the coals for extra flavor.