The sweet and savory flavors of a bone-in honey baked ham are a staple of many holiday meals and special occasions. With its rich, caramelized glaze and tender, juicy meat, it’s no wonder why this dish is a crowd-pleaser. However, cooking a bone-in honey baked ham can seem intimidating, especially for those who are new to cooking or have never worked with a large cut of meat before. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook the perfect bone-in honey baked ham, from preparation to presentation.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to choose the right ham for the job. When it comes to bone-in honey baked hams, you’ll want to look for a few key characteristics:
- Bone-in: This is a must for a traditional honey baked ham. The bone adds flavor and helps to keep the meat moist.
- Smoked or cured: A smoked or cured ham will have a more complex flavor profile than a fresh ham.
- Thick glaze: A thick glaze is essential for a honey baked ham. Look for a ham with a thick, sticky glaze that’s made with honey, brown sugar, and spices.
Some popular types of bone-in hams include:
- Spiral-cut ham: This type of ham is cut in a spiral shape, making it easy to slice and serve.
- Bone-in butt ham: This type of ham is cut from the rear leg of the pig and is known for its rich, meaty flavor.
Preparing the Ham
Once you’ve chosen your ham, it’s time to start preparing it for cooking. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Remove the packaging: Take the ham out of its packaging and place it on a rimmed baking sheet or a large cutting board.
- Trim the fat: Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the surface of the ham. This will help the glaze to stick to the meat.
- Score the fat: Use a sharp knife to score the fat in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze to penetrate the meat and add flavor.
Cooking the Ham
Now that your ham is prepared, it’s time to start cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the ham in the oven: Place the ham in the oven and bake for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Baste the ham: Every 20 minutes, baste the ham with the pan juices. This will help to keep the meat moist and add flavor.
Glazing the Ham
The glaze is what sets a honey baked ham apart from other types of ham. Here’s how to make a classic honey glaze:
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, mustard, and olive oil.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened.
- Stir in the garlic and thyme.
Applying the Glaze
Once the ham has been cooking for about 30 minutes, it’s time to apply the glaze. Here’s how:
- Brush the glaze: Use a pastry brush to brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham.
- Repeat the process: Repeat the glazing process every 20 minutes, or until the ham is cooked through.
Serving the Ham
Once the ham is cooked, it’s time to serve. Here are a few tips for serving a bone-in honey baked ham:
- Let it rest: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay moist.
- Slice against the grain: Slice the ham against the grain, using a sharp knife.
- Serve with sides: Serve the ham with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking a bone-in honey baked ham, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking: Overcooking can make the ham dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Underglazing: Underglazing can result in a ham that’s not sweet and sticky enough. Make sure to apply the glaze every 20 minutes, or until the ham is cooked through.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your bone-in honey baked ham to the next level:
- Add some spice: Add some spice to your glaze by incorporating ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves.
- Use a different type of sugar: Use a different type of sugar, such as turbinado or Demerara, to add a slightly different flavor to your glaze.
- Add some fruit: Add some fruit, such as pineapple or cherries, to your glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to cook a delicious bone-in honey baked ham that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
What is the best type of ham to use for a bone-in honey baked ham?
The best type of ham to use for a bone-in honey baked ham is a smoked or cured ham, preferably with a thick layer of fat. This type of ham is ideal because the fat helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the cooking process. Look for a ham that is labeled as “bone-in” or “shank-end” to ensure that it has the bone and a good amount of fat.
When selecting a ham, consider the size and weight. A larger ham will take longer to cook, so plan accordingly. Also, check the ingredients and look for a ham that is free from added preservatives and artificial flavorings. A high-quality ham will result in a more flavorful and tender final product.
How do I prepare the ham before baking?
Before baking the ham, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Start by removing the ham from the packaging and rinsing it under cold water. Pat the ham dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Next, score the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy, caramelized crust.
If your ham comes with a glaze packet, you can discard it and make your own glaze using honey, brown sugar, and spices. You can also add other ingredients like mustard, cloves, or citrus zest to give the ham more flavor. Apply the glaze to the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
What is the best temperature to bake a bone-in honey baked ham?
The best temperature to bake a bone-in honey baked ham is 325°F (160°C). This temperature allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy final product. Baking the ham at a higher temperature can cause it to dry out, so it’s essential to keep the temperature consistent.
It’s also crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham reaches a safe internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can check the ham’s doneness by looking for a nice glaze and a tender texture.
How long does it take to bake a bone-in honey baked ham?
The baking time for a bone-in honey baked ham will depend on the size and weight of the ham. As a general rule, a 5-pound (2.3 kg) ham will take about 15-20 minutes per pound to bake. So, a 5-pound ham will take around 75-100 minutes to bake.
It’s essential to check the ham’s temperature and texture regularly to avoid overcooking. You can also baste the ham with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning. If you’re unsure about the ham’s doneness, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and bake it for a few more minutes.
Can I bake a bone-in honey baked ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can bake a bone-in honey baked ham in a slow cooker. In fact, a slow cooker is an excellent way to cook a ham because it allows for low and slow cooking, resulting in a tender and juicy final product. To cook a ham in a slow cooker, place the ham in the cooker and add your desired glaze and spices.
Cook the ham on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You can also cook the ham on low overnight and wake up to a delicious, ready-to-eat ham. Keep in mind that cooking a ham in a slow cooker will result in a slightly different texture and flavor than baking it in the oven.
How do I glaze a bone-in honey baked ham?
Glazing a bone-in honey baked ham is a crucial step in creating a sweet and sticky crust. To glaze the ham, mix together your desired ingredients, such as honey, brown sugar, mustard, and spices. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
You can apply the glaze at different stages of the cooking process. Some people prefer to apply the glaze during the last 30 minutes of baking, while others apply it at the beginning of the cooking time. Experiment with different glazing techniques to find what works best for you.
How do I store and serve a bone-in honey baked ham?
Once the ham is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. You can store the ham in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. To store the ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a covered container.
When serving the ham, slice it thinly against the grain. You can serve the ham on its own or with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. The ham is also delicious served as a sandwich or used in salads, soups, and pasta dishes.