Smoked ham is a staple of many holiday meals, and for good reason. The rich, savory flavor and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser. While it’s often served cold, cooking a smoked ham in the oven can bring out even more flavor and make it a truly unforgettable dish. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to cook a smoked ham in the oven, including the benefits, preparation, and cooking methods.
The Benefits of Cooking a Smoked Ham in the Oven
Cooking a smoked ham in the oven offers several benefits over other cooking methods. For one, it allows for even heating, which helps to prevent the ham from drying out. It also gives you more control over the temperature and cooking time, making it easier to achieve the perfect level of doneness. Additionally, cooking a smoked ham in the oven can help to bring out the natural flavors of the ham, making it even more delicious.
Choosing the Right Smoked Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right smoked ham. There are several types of smoked ham available, including bone-in, boneless, and spiral-cut. Bone-in hams are often more flavorful, but they can be more difficult to slice. Boneless hams are easier to slice, but they may lack some of the flavor of a bone-in ham. Spiral-cut hams are a good compromise, offering easy slicing and a good balance of flavor.
When selecting a smoked ham, look for one that is labeled “fully cooked” or “ready to eat.” This ensures that the ham has been cooked to a safe internal temperature and is ready to be heated and served.
Preparing the Smoked Ham for Cooking
Before cooking the smoked ham, it’s essential to prepare it properly. This includes scoring the fat, applying a glaze, and placing the ham in a roasting pan.
Scoring the Fat
Scoring the fat on the surface of the ham helps to create a crispy, caramelized crust during cooking. To score the fat, use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as this can damage the meat.
Applying a Glaze
A glaze can add flavor and moisture to the smoked ham during cooking. There are many different types of glazes available, including brown sugar, honey, and mustard. To apply the glaze, simply brush it onto the surface of the ham using a pastry brush.
Placing the Ham in a Roasting Pan
Once the ham is scored and glazed, it’s time to place it in a roasting pan. Make sure the pan is large enough to hold the ham comfortably, with a little room to spare. You can also add some aromatics, such as onions and carrots, to the pan for added flavor.
Cooking the Smoked Ham in the Oven
Now that the ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the oven. The cooking time and temperature will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using.
Cooking Temperature and Time
The recommended cooking temperature for a smoked ham is 325°F (160°C). The cooking time will depend on the size of the ham, but here are some general guidelines:
| Size of Ham | Cooking Time |
| — | — |
| 5-7 pounds | 15-20 minutes per pound |
| 7-10 pounds | 12-15 minutes per pound |
| 10-12 pounds | 10-12 minutes per pound |
For example, a 5-pound ham would need to cook for 75-100 minutes, while a 10-pound ham would need to cook for 100-120 minutes.
Checking the Internal Temperature
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). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, inserting it into the thickest part of the ham.
Basting the Ham
Basting the ham with pan juices can help to keep it moist and add flavor. Use a spoon to baste the ham every 20-30 minutes, or until it’s cooked to your liking.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you get the most out of your smoked ham:
Using a Ham Bag
A ham bag can help to keep the ham moist and promote even cooking. Simply place the ham in the bag and seal it, then cook as directed.
Adding Aromatics
Adding aromatics, such as onions and carrots, to the roasting pan can add flavor to the ham. You can also try adding other aromatics, such as cloves and allspice, for a unique flavor.
Glazing the Ham During Cooking
Glazing the ham during cooking can add a sweet and sticky crust. Simply brush the glaze onto the ham during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking a smoked ham in the oven is a delicious and easy way to prepare this holiday staple. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering smoked ham that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it as the centerpiece of a holiday meal or as a simple weeknight dinner, a smoked ham cooked in the oven is sure to be a hit.
What is the best way to prepare a smoked ham for oven cooking?
To prepare a smoked ham for oven cooking, start by removing the packaging and any glaze or netting that may be covering the ham. If your smoked ham has a thick layer of fat on the surface, you can score it in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the fat render and crisp up during cooking.
Next, place the smoked ham in a roasting pan or a large oven-safe skillet, fat side up. You can add some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the pan, as well as some liquid like stock or wine, to add flavor to the ham. Make sure the pan is large enough to hold the ham comfortably, with some space around it for air to circulate.
What is the ideal oven temperature for cooking a smoked ham?
The ideal oven temperature for cooking a smoked ham is between 325°F (160°C) and 350°F (180°C). This temperature range allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, which helps to prevent it from drying out. You can also use a lower temperature, such as 275°F (135°C), if you prefer a more tender and fall-apart texture.
It’s also important to note that the temperature of the oven can affect the glaze on the ham. If you’re using a glaze, you may want to cook the ham at a higher temperature, such as 400°F (200°C), for the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to caramelize the glaze.
How long does it take to cook a smoked ham in the oven?
The cooking time for a smoked ham in the oven will depend on the size and weight of the ham. As a general rule, you can cook a smoked ham for about 15-20 minutes per pound. So, a 5-pound (2.3 kg) ham would take about 1 1/2 to 2 hours to cook.
It’s also important to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure that it’s cooked to a safe temperature. The internal temperature of the ham should reach at least 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham.
Can I glaze a smoked ham during the last stages of cooking?
Yes, you can glaze a smoked ham during the last stages of cooking. In fact, glazing the ham can add a rich, caramelized flavor to the surface of the ham. To glaze the ham, mix together your desired glaze ingredients, such as brown sugar, mustard, and spices, and brush the glaze over the surface of the ham during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
Make sure to use a glaze that’s suitable for high temperatures, as some glazes can burn or become too dark if cooked for too long. You can also use a glaze that’s specifically designed for smoked hams, which can add a rich, savory flavor to the ham.
How do I know when a smoked ham is cooked to perfection?
A smoked ham is cooked to perfection when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It’s also important to check the texture of the ham, which should be tender and easily sliced.
Another way to check if the ham is cooked to perfection is to look for visual cues, such as a caramelized glaze on the surface of the ham or a tender, fall-apart texture. You can also check the juices of the ham, which should run clear when the ham is cooked to perfection.
Can I cook a smoked ham in the oven with the bone in?
Yes, you can cook a smoked ham in the oven with the bone in. In fact, cooking a smoked ham with the bone in can add more flavor to the ham, as the bone can act as a flavor conductor. To cook a smoked ham with the bone in, simply place the ham in a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet, bone side down, and cook as directed.
Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size and weight of the ham, as well as the temperature of the oven. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham, which should reach at least 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety.
How do I store a cooked smoked ham in the refrigerator or freezer?
To store a cooked smoked ham in the refrigerator, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. The ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.
To store a cooked smoked ham in the freezer, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. The ham can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve the ham, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and slice it thinly.