Preparing a fully cooked ham is an art that requires attention to detail, patience, and a bit of creativity. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual gathering, a perfectly glazed ham is sure to impress your guests. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of preparing a fully cooked ham, from choosing the right type of ham to adding the final touches.
Choosing the Right Type of Ham
With so many types of ham available in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting a fully cooked ham:
Types of Ham
- Bone-in ham: This type of ham is more traditional and has a bone running through it. It’s often less expensive than boneless ham and has more flavor.
- Boneless ham: This type of ham is more convenient to slice and serve. It’s often more expensive than bone-in ham but is still a popular choice.
- Spiral-cut ham: This type of ham is pre-cut in a spiral shape, making it easy to serve. It’s often more expensive than bone-in or boneless ham.
Size of the Ham
- Small ham: A small ham is perfect for a small gathering or a family dinner. It’s usually around 2-3 pounds and serves 4-6 people.
- Medium ham: A medium ham is ideal for a medium-sized gathering. It’s usually around 4-6 pounds and serves 8-10 people.
- Large ham: A large ham is perfect for a big gathering or a special occasion. It’s usually around 8-10 pounds and serves 12-15 people.
Thawing and Preparing the Ham
Once you’ve chosen the right type of ham, it’s time to thaw and prepare it. Here’s how:
Thawing the Ham
- Refrigerator thawing: This is the safest way to thaw a ham. Simply place the ham in the refrigerator and let it thaw for 24 hours.
- Cold water thawing: This method is faster than refrigerator thawing. Simply place the ham in a leak-proof bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes and let it thaw for 30 minutes per pound.
Removing the Packaging
- Removing the glaze: If your ham comes with a glaze, remove it before preparing the ham. You can use a knife or a pair of scissors to remove the glaze.
- Removing the netting: If your ham is wrapped in netting, remove it before preparing the ham. You can use a pair of scissors to cut the netting.
Glazing the Ham
A glaze is a sweet or savory sauce that’s brushed onto the ham during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. Here are a few tips for glazing a ham:
Types of Glazes
- Brown sugar glaze: This is a classic glaze made with brown sugar, mustard, and spices.
- Honey glaze: This is a sweet glaze made with honey, mustard, and spices.
- Fruit glaze: This is a sweet and tangy glaze made with fruit preserves, mustard, and spices.
Applying the Glaze
- Brushing the glaze: Use a pastry brush to apply the glaze to the ham. Make sure to brush the glaze evenly and avoid applying too much glaze.
- Scoring the ham: Use a sharp knife to score the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat.
Cooking the Ham
Cooking a fully cooked ham is easy and straightforward. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Oven Cooking
- Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Placing the ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it with aluminum foil.
- Cooking the ham: Cook the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Grilling the Ham
- Preheating the grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Placing the ham: Place the ham on the grill and close the lid.
- Cooking the ham: Cook the ham for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Adding the Final Touches
Once the ham is cooked, it’s time to add the final touches. Here are a few ideas:
Garnishing the Ham
- Fresh herbs: Use fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme to garnish the ham.
- Fruit: Use fresh fruit like pineapple, cherries, or oranges to garnish the ham.
- Nuts: Use chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to garnish the ham.
Serving the Ham
- Slicing the ham: Use a sharp knife to slice the ham thinly.
- Serving with sides: Serve the ham with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
| Ham Size | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 pounds | 30-40 minutes | 140°F (60°C) |
| 4-6 pounds | 45-60 minutes | 140°F (60°C) |
| 8-10 pounds | 60-90 minutes | 140°F (60°C) |
In conclusion, preparing a fully cooked ham is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail and a bit of creativity. By following these tips and guidelines, you’ll be able to create a delicious and impressive ham that’s sure to please your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual gathering, a perfectly glazed ham is the perfect centerpiece for any occasion.
What is the best type of ham to use for glazing?
The best type of ham to use for glazing is a fully cooked, bone-in ham. This type of ham is typically labeled as “fully cooked” or “ready to eat” and can be found in most supermarkets. It’s essential to choose a bone-in ham because the bone acts as an insulator, helping to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the glazing process.
When selecting a ham, look for one that is evenly colored and has a smooth, glossy appearance. Avoid hams with visible fat or connective tissue, as these can affect the texture and appearance of the finished dish. You can also consider using a smoked or cured ham for added flavor.
What is the purpose of scoring the ham before glazing?
Scoring the ham before glazing serves several purposes. Firstly, it helps to create a diamond pattern on the surface of the ham, which not only looks visually appealing but also allows the glaze to penetrate deeper into the meat. Secondly, scoring the ham helps to release any excess fat and juices, which can make the glaze more effective.
To score the ham, use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat. This will help to create a beautiful, caramelized crust on the surface of the ham during the glazing process.
What type of glaze is best for a fully cooked ham?
The type of glaze you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the flavor profile you’re aiming for. Some popular glaze options for fully cooked hams include a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices, or a fruit-based glaze made with ingredients like pineapple juice and cherry preserves.
When choosing a glaze, consider the flavor profile of the ham itself. If you’re using a smoked or cured ham, you may want to opt for a sweeter glaze to balance out the savory flavors. On the other hand, if you’re using a milder ham, you may prefer a more savory glaze.
How do I apply the glaze to the ham?
To apply the glaze to the ham, use a pastry brush or a spoon to spread it evenly over the surface of the meat. Make sure to get the glaze into the scored lines, as this will help it to penetrate deeper into the meat.
It’s essential to apply the glaze in a thin, even layer, as this will help it to caramelize properly during the cooking process. Avoid applying too much glaze, as this can make the ham overly sweet and sticky.
What temperature should I cook the ham at?
The ideal temperature for cooking a glazed ham will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using. As a general rule, it’s best to cook the ham at a low temperature, around 325°F (160°C), to prevent the glaze from burning or caramelizing too quickly.
This temperature will also help to keep the meat moist and flavorful, while allowing the glaze to caramelize slowly and evenly. You can adjust the temperature as needed, but it’s essential to keep an eye on the ham to prevent it from overcooking.
How long does it take to cook a glazed ham?
The cooking time for a glazed ham will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using. As a general rule, it’s best to cook the ham for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature. You can also check the ham for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the meat. If it slides in easily, the ham is cooked.
Can I make a glazed ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can make a glazed ham ahead of time, but it’s essential to follow some guidelines to ensure food safety. If you’re cooking the ham ahead of time, make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it.
When reheating the ham, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety. You can also re-glaze the ham before reheating it, which will help to restore the caramelized crust and add extra flavor.