Cooking the Perfect Cure 81 Spiral Ham: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Cure 81 Spiral Ham is a beloved staple of many family gatherings and holiday meals. Its sweet, savory flavor and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser, and its ease of preparation makes it a favorite among home cooks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the Cure 81 Spiral Ham, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook it to perfection.

A Brief History of the Cure 81 Spiral Ham

The Cure 81 Spiral Ham is a product of the Smithfield company, a leading manufacturer of pork products in the United States. The company was founded in 1936 by Joseph W. Luter and his son, Joseph W. Luter Jr., in Smithfield, Virginia. The Luters developed a unique curing process that involved using a blend of salt, sugar, and spices to preserve and flavor the ham. This process, known as “curing,” allowed the ham to be stored for longer periods of time without refrigeration, making it a staple of many American households.

In the 1950s, Smithfield introduced the Cure 81 Spiral Ham, which quickly became a popular choice among home cooks. The spiral cut made it easy to serve and portion, and the sweet, savory flavor made it a hit with families across the country.

Choosing the Right Cure 81 Spiral Ham

When selecting a Cure 81 Spiral Ham, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect ham:

  • Look for the Smithfield logo: Make sure the ham is a genuine Smithfield product, as this ensures that it has been made with the highest quality ingredients and has undergone the company’s rigorous curing process.
  • Check the weight: Cure 81 Spiral Hams come in a range of sizes, from 5 to 10 pounds. Choose a size that’s right for your gathering or family.
  • Consider the glaze: Some Cure 81 Spiral Hams come with a pre-applied glaze, while others do not. If you prefer a glazed ham, look for one that has a sweet, sticky glaze applied.

Understanding the Nutrition Facts

Before we dive into the cooking instructions, let’s take a look at the nutrition facts for the Cure 81 Spiral Ham. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a 5-pound ham:

NutrientAmount
Calories140 per serving
Total Fat4.5g
Sodium1040mg
Total Carbohydrates6g
Protein17g

Cooking the Cure 81 Spiral Ham

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to the cooking instructions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook the perfect Cure 81 Spiral Ham:

Preheating the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature will help to cook the ham evenly and prevent it from drying out.

Preparing the Ham

Remove the ham from the packaging and place it in a roasting pan. If your ham comes with a pre-applied glaze, you can skip this step. If not, you can apply a glaze of your choice (we’ll cover this in more detail later).

Cooking the Ham

Place the ham in the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes per pound. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking times for different sizes of hams:

  • 5-pound ham: 75-100 minutes
  • 7-pound ham: 105-140 minutes
  • 10-pound ham: 150-200 minutes

Checking the Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. The temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare, 150°F (65°C) for medium, and 160°F (70°C) for well-done.

Glazing the Ham (Optional)

If your ham doesn’t come with a pre-applied glaze, you can apply one of your choice. Here’s a simple recipe for a sweet, sticky glaze:

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Mix the ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth. Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.

Serving and Storing 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, green beans, or a salad.

If you have leftover ham, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Freezing the Ham

To freeze the ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the ham overnight in the refrigerator or thaw it quickly by submerging it in cold water.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to help you get the most out of your Cure 81 Spiral Ham:

  • Use a ham stand: A ham stand can help to elevate the ham and make it easier to slice.
  • Add some flavor: You can add some flavor to the ham by sprinkling it with herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or cloves.
  • Try a different glaze: You can experiment with different glazes, such as a honey-mustard glaze or a brown sugar-bourbon glaze.

By following these tips and variations, you can create a delicious and memorable meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Conclusion

The Cure 81 Spiral Ham is a beloved staple of many family gatherings and holiday meals. With its sweet, savory flavor and tender texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. By following the cooking instructions and tips outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and memorable meal that’s sure to become a family tradition.

What is a Cure 81 Spiral Ham and why is it popular?

A Cure 81 Spiral Ham is a type of pre-cooked, cured ham that is known for its tender and juicy texture, as well as its rich, savory flavor. It is a popular choice for special occasions and holidays, such as Easter and Christmas, due to its ease of preparation and impressive presentation.

The Cure 81 Spiral Ham is made from high-quality pork leg that is cured with a blend of spices and sugars, then smoked to perfection. The spiral cut allows for easy serving and makes it a great option for large gatherings. Its popularity can be attributed to its convenience, flavor, and versatility, making it a staple in many households.

What are the ingredients needed to cook a Cure 81 Spiral Ham?

To cook a Cure 81 Spiral Ham, you will need a few basic ingredients, including the ham itself, a glaze or sauce of your choice, and some spices and seasonings. You may also want to have some pineapple rings, cherries, or other garnishes on hand to add a decorative touch to your dish.

In addition to the ham and glaze, you will also need a baking sheet or roasting pan, aluminum foil, and a meat thermometer. You may also want to have some toothpicks or a meat skewer on hand to help secure the ham in place while it cooks.

How do I prepare the Cure 81 Spiral Ham for cooking?

To prepare the Cure 81 Spiral Ham for cooking, start by removing it from the packaging and placing it on a baking sheet or roasting pan. If your ham comes with a glaze packet, you can follow the instructions on the packet to prepare the glaze. If not, you can use a store-bought glaze or make your own using a combination of brown sugar, mustard, and spices.

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 on the surface of the ham.

What is the best way to cook a Cure 81 Spiral Ham?

The best way to cook a Cure 81 Spiral Ham is to bake it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Place the ham on a baking sheet or roasting pan, fat side up, and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

After the initial baking time, remove the foil and brush the ham with your prepared glaze. Return the ham to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

How do I glaze a Cure 81 Spiral Ham?

To glaze a Cure 81 Spiral Ham, start by preparing your glaze according to the recipe or package instructions. If using a store-bought glaze, follow the instructions on the label. If making your own glaze, combine the ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

Once the glaze is prepared, brush it evenly over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines. You can use a pastry brush or a spoon to apply the glaze, depending on the consistency. If desired, you can also add some additional spices or seasonings to the glaze for extra flavor.

How do I serve a Cure 81 Spiral Ham?

To serve a Cure 81 Spiral Ham, start by removing it from the oven and letting it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the ham to cool slightly, making it easier to slice.

Once the ham has rested, use a sharp knife to slice it into thin pieces, following the natural curve of the spiral cut. You can serve the ham on its own, or with a variety of sides, such as pineapple rings, cherries, or roasted vegetables. You can also use the ham as the centerpiece for a buffet or charcuterie board.

Can I cook a Cure 81 Spiral Ham in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook a Cure 81 Spiral Ham in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, although the results may vary slightly from oven-baked ham. To cook the ham in a slow cooker, place it in the cooker and add your desired glaze or sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

To cook the ham in an Instant Pot, place it in the pot and add your desired glaze or sauce. Cook on high pressure for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

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