Cooking a Ham in a Brown Paper Bag: A Simple and Delicious Method

Cooking a ham in a brown paper bag is a unique and effective way to prepare this popular dish. This method allows for even cooking and helps retain the ham’s natural juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful final product. In this article, we will explore the benefits of cooking a ham in a brown paper bag, the necessary materials, and a step-by-step guide on how to do it.

Table of Contents

The Benefits of Cooking a Ham in a Brown Paper Bag

Cooking a ham in a brown paper bag offers several advantages over traditional cooking methods. Some of the benefits include:

Even Cooking: The brown paper bag helps to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that the ham is cooked consistently throughout.
Retains Natural Juices: The bag traps the ham’s natural juices, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Easy Cleanup: The bag contains any mess, making cleanup a breeze.
No Need for Constant Monitoring: Once the ham is in the bag, you can let it cook without constant monitoring, freeing up time for other tasks.

Necessary Materials

To cook a ham in a brown paper bag, you will need the following materials:

A large brown paper bag (grocery bag or lunch bag)
A ham (bone-in or boneless, smoked or unsmoked)
A baking sheet or roasting pan
Aluminum foil
A meat thermometer
Optional: glaze or seasonings

Choosing the Right Ham

When selecting a ham for cooking in a brown paper bag, consider the type and size of the ham. A bone-in ham is ideal, as the bone helps to distribute heat evenly. However, a boneless ham can also be used. Smoked hams are already cooked, so they will require less cooking time. Unsmoked hams, on the other hand, will need to be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking a Ham in a Brown Paper Bag

Cooking a ham in a brown paper bag is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to achieve a delicious and tender ham:

Preheating the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). If you have a convection oven, you can use the convection setting to help cook the ham more evenly.

Preparing the Ham

If using a smoked ham, you can skip this step. For unsmoked hams, score the fat layer in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat.

Seasoning the Ham (Optional)

If desired, apply a glaze or seasonings to the ham. You can use a store-bought glaze or make your own using ingredients like brown sugar, mustard, and spices.

Placing the Ham in the Bag

Place the ham in the brown paper bag, making sure it is centered and the bag is not twisted. If using a bone-in ham, place the bone side down.

Sealing the Bag

Fold the top of the bag over several times to create a tight seal. You can use a piece of aluminum foil to reinforce the seal.

Placing the Bag on the Baking Sheet

Place the bag on a baking sheet or roasting pan, making sure it is centered and the bag is not touching the sides of the pan.

Cooking the Ham

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound. For a smoked ham, cook for 10-15 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. For unsmoked hams, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Letting the Ham Rest

Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the ham even more tender and flavorful.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to consider when cooking a ham in a brown paper bag:

Use a Larger Bag: If you’re cooking a large ham, use a larger bag to ensure it fits comfortably.
Add Aromatics: You can add aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the bag for added flavor.
Use a Different Cooking Method
: You can also cook the ham in a slow cooker or on the grill using the brown paper bag method.

Cooking a Ham in a Brown Paper Bag: A Table of Cooking Times

Note: Cooking times are approximate and may vary depending on the oven and the ham’s internal temperature.

In conclusion, cooking a ham in a brown paper bag is a simple and effective way to prepare this popular dish. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a tender and flavorful ham with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this method is sure to impress.

What is the purpose of using a brown paper bag to cook a ham?

Using a brown paper bag to cook a ham is a simple and effective method that helps retain moisture and promote even cooking. The bag acts as a steamer, trapping the heat and juices around the ham, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. This method is especially useful for cooking hams that are prone to drying out, such as spiral-cut or bone-in hams.

The brown paper bag also helps to reduce the mess and cleanup associated with cooking a ham. The bag contains the juices and glazes, making it easy to dispose of the bag and leaving the oven or cooking surface clean. Additionally, the bag can be used to cook the ham in a variety of settings, including the oven, on the grill, or even in a slow cooker.

How do I prepare the brown paper bag for cooking the ham?

To prepare the brown paper bag for cooking the ham, start by selecting a bag that is large enough to hold the ham comfortably. You can use a grocery bag or a paper bag specifically designed for cooking. Cut the top seam of the bag to create a flap, which will allow you to easily place the ham inside and seal the bag.

Next, place the ham in the center of the bag, and add any desired seasonings, glazes, or aromatics, such as onions, carrots, or cloves. Fold the flap over the ham, and seal the bag by twisting or folding the top. Make sure the bag is tightly sealed to trap the heat and juices around the ham.

What type of ham is best suited for cooking in a brown paper bag?

Any type of ham can be cooked in a brown paper bag, but some types are better suited than others. Spiral-cut hams, bone-in hams, and smoked hams are all good candidates for this cooking method. These types of hams tend to be more prone to drying out, and the brown paper bag helps to retain moisture and promote even cooking.

Avoid using pre-glazed or pre-cooked hams, as they may not benefit from the steaming action of the brown paper bag. Instead, opt for a raw or partially cooked ham that can be seasoned and glazed to your liking. You can also use the brown paper bag to cook a ham that has been previously cooked, such as a leftover ham or a ham that has been frozen.

How long does it take to cook a ham in a brown paper bag?

The cooking time for a ham in a brown paper bag will depend on the size and type of ham, as well as the cooking method. Generally, a ham cooked in a brown paper bag will take about 20-30 minutes per pound to cook. For example, a 5-pound ham will take about 1-2 hours to cook in the oven, while a 10-pound ham will take about 2-3 hours.

It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, and adjust the cooking time as needed. Keep in mind that the ham will continue to cook a bit after it’s removed from the heat, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking than overcooking.

Can I add glazes or seasonings to the ham while it’s cooking in the brown paper bag?

Yes, you can add glazes or seasonings to the ham while it’s cooking in the brown paper bag. In fact, the brown paper bag is an excellent way to infuse the ham with flavors and aromas. You can add your favorite glazes, such as a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices, or seasonings like cloves, allspice, or thyme.

To add glazes or seasonings, simply brush them onto the ham before placing it in the brown paper bag. You can also add aromatics like onions, carrots, or celery to the bag for added flavor. As the ham cooks, the glazes and seasonings will melt and infuse into the meat, creating a delicious and flavorful dish.

Is it safe to cook a ham in a brown paper bag?

Yes, it is safe to cook a ham in a brown paper bag, as long as you follow some basic guidelines. First, make sure the bag is made from food-grade paper that is safe for cooking. You can check the packaging or manufacturer’s instructions to confirm.

Second, avoid using bags that have been treated with wax or other chemicals, as these can transfer to the food and create a health risk. Finally, make sure the bag is sealed tightly to prevent juices and glazes from escaping and creating a mess. As long as you follow these guidelines, cooking a ham in a brown paper bag is a safe and effective method.

Can I cook a ham in a brown paper bag in a slow cooker or on the grill?

Yes, you can cook a ham in a brown paper bag in a slow cooker or on the grill. In fact, these cooking methods can be ideal for cooking a ham in a brown paper bag. To cook a ham in a slow cooker, simply place the bagged ham in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

To cook a ham on the grill, place the bagged ham on the grill and cook over medium-low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). You can also use the grill’s rotisserie feature to cook the ham, if available. Regardless of the cooking method, make sure to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature.