Clifty Farm country hams are renowned for their rich, savory flavor and tender texture. These hams are cured to perfection, making them a staple in many Southern households. However, cooking a Clifty Farm country ham can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to cooking cured meats. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to cook a Clifty Farm country ham, ensuring that you achieve a deliciously moist and flavorful dish.
Understanding Clifty Farm Country Hams
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of Clifty Farm country hams. These hams are made from high-quality pork legs that are cured with a blend of salt, sugar, and spices. The curing process involves rubbing the ham with a mixture of ingredients, then allowing it to age for several months. This process gives the ham its distinctive flavor and texture.
Types of Clifty Farm Country Hams
Clifty Farm offers a range of country hams, each with its unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types include:
- Smoked Country Ham: This type of ham is smoked over low heat to give it a rich, savory flavor.
- Cured Country Ham: This type of ham is cured with a blend of salt, sugar, and spices, but not smoked.
- Black Forest Country Ham: This type of ham is cured with a blend of spices and herbs, giving it a distinctive flavor.
Preparing the Ham for Cooking
Before cooking the ham, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are the steps to follow:
Removing the Packaging
Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any plastic or paper wrapping. If the ham is wrapped in a cloth or paper bag, you can leave it on, as it will help to retain moisture during cooking.
Trimming the Fat
Trim any excess fat from the surface of the ham, if necessary. This will help to prevent the fat from melting and making the ham too greasy.
Scoring the Fat
Use a sharp knife to score the fat on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help to create a decorative glaze during cooking.
Cooking the Ham
There are several ways to cook a Clifty Farm country ham, including baking, boiling, and pan-frying. Here, we will focus on the most popular method: baking.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature will help to cook the ham slowly and evenly, ensuring that it remains moist and flavorful.
Placing the Ham in the Oven
Place the ham in a roasting pan or a large Dutch oven, fat side up. If you’re using a roasting pan, you can add some water or broth to the bottom of the pan to help keep the ham moist.
Covering the Ham
Cover the ham with aluminum foil or a lid to prevent it from drying out. If you’re using foil, make sure to poke some holes in it to allow steam to escape.
Cooking the Ham
Cook the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist.
Glazing the Ham
A glaze can add a rich, caramelized flavor to the ham. Here’s a simple recipe for a brown sugar and mustard glaze:
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, mustard, honey, and vinegar until well combined.
- Remove the ham from the oven and brush the glaze all over the surface.
- Return the ham to the oven and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
Serving the Ham
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. You can serve the ham on its own or with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
Slicing the Ham
Use a sharp knife to slice the ham thinly, against the grain. You can serve the ham in slices or chop it into smaller pieces for salads or sandwiches.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you get the most out of your Clifty Farm country ham:
- Use a Ham Stand: A ham stand can help to keep the ham stable and secure during cooking, making it easier to baste and glaze.
- Add Aromatics: You can add aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery to the roasting pan to add extra flavor to the ham.
- Try Different Glazes: You can experiment with different glaze recipes, such as a honey and soy sauce glaze or a maple syrup and mustard glaze.
| Ham Type | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked Country Ham | 15-20 minutes per pound | 140°F (60°C) |
| Cured Country Ham | 15-20 minutes per pound | 140°F (60°C) |
| Black Forest Country Ham | 15-20 minutes per pound | 140°F (60°C) |
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to cook a delicious Clifty Farm country ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you to achieve a perfectly cooked ham every time.
What is a Clifty Farm Country Ham and how does it differ from other types of ham?
A Clifty Farm Country Ham is a type of cured ham that originates from the Clifty Farm in Kentucky. It is known for its distinctive flavor and texture, which is achieved through a combination of traditional curing methods and a special blend of spices. Unlike other types of ham, Clifty Farm Country Ham is made from the hind leg of the pig, which is cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices before being smoked to perfection.
The unique flavor profile of Clifty Farm Country Ham is due in part to the use of a special blend of spices, which includes a combination of salt, black pepper, and other proprietary ingredients. This blend of spices gives the ham a distinctive flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet. Additionally, the curing process used to make Clifty Farm Country Ham is longer than that used for other types of ham, which allows for a more complex flavor profile to develop.
What equipment do I need to cook a Clifty Farm Country Ham?
To cook a Clifty Farm Country Ham, you will need a few pieces of basic equipment, including a large pot or Dutch oven, a rack or tray, and a meat thermometer. The pot or Dutch oven should be large enough to hold the ham and enough liquid to cover it, and the rack or tray should be able to hold the ham above the liquid. A meat thermometer is necessary to ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
In addition to these basic pieces of equipment, you may also want to have some additional items on hand, such as a sharp knife for trimming the ham, a cutting board for slicing the ham, and a serving platter for presenting the finished dish. You may also want to have some aluminum foil or parchment paper on hand to wrap the ham during cooking.
How do I prepare a Clifty Farm Country Ham for cooking?
Before cooking a Clifty Farm Country Ham, you will need to prepare it by trimming any excess fat and removing the skin. This will help the ham to cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy. You should also 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 to penetrate the meat more evenly.
Once you have trimmed and scored the ham, you can rinse it under cold running water to remove any excess salt or debris. Pat the ham dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, and then let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the ham to cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too dry.
What is the best way to cook a Clifty Farm Country Ham?
The best way to cook a Clifty Farm Country Ham is to boil it in a large pot or Dutch oven, using a combination of water and spices to create a flavorful broth. You can also add other ingredients to the broth, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to add extra flavor to the ham. Once the ham is cooked, you can glaze it with a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices to add a sweet and sticky exterior.
To cook the ham, place it in the pot or Dutch oven and add enough liquid to cover it. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and let the ham cook for about 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes before glazing and serving.
How do I glaze a Clifty Farm Country Ham?
To glaze a Clifty Farm Country Ham, you will need to mix together a combination of brown sugar, mustard, and spices. The exact ingredients and proportions may vary depending on your personal preferences, but a basic glaze recipe might include 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon ground cloves. You can adjust the amount of each ingredient to taste, and add other ingredients such as honey or spices to create a unique flavor profile.
To apply the glaze, place the cooked ham on a rack or tray and brush the glaze all over the surface of the ham. You can use a pastry brush or a spoon to apply the glaze, depending on the consistency and your personal preference. Once the glaze is applied, place the ham under the broiler or in a hot oven (about 400°F) for a few minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
How do I serve a Clifty Farm Country Ham?
A Clifty Farm Country Ham can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preferences and the occasion. One popular way to serve the ham is to slice it thinly and serve it with a side of biscuits or bread, along with a selection of cheeses, fruits, and nuts. You can also serve the ham as the centerpiece of a holiday meal, accompanied by a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and sweet potatoes.
In addition to serving the ham on its own, you can also use it as an ingredient in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, and casseroles. The ham can be diced or sliced and added to these dishes, where it will add a rich and savory flavor. You can also use the ham to make a variety of sandwiches and wraps, such as a classic ham and cheese or a more elaborate ham and vegetable wrap.
How do I store leftover Clifty Farm Country Ham?
To store leftover Clifty Farm Country Ham, you should wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it at a temperature of 40°F or below. The ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. If you plan to freeze the ham, you should wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
When you are ready to serve the leftover ham, you can thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Once the ham is thawed, you can slice it thinly and serve it as desired. You can also use the leftover ham to make a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, and casseroles.