Are you tired of throwing away leftover ham on the bone after a big holiday meal? Do you want to know how to cook it in a way that’s both delicious and easy? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to cook leftover ham on the bone in a variety of ways, from simple to elaborate. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, you’ll find something here to inspire you.
Why Cook Leftover Ham on the Bone?
Before we dive into the cooking methods, let’s talk about why cooking leftover ham on the bone is a great idea. Here are a few reasons:
- Reducing Food Waste: Cooking leftover ham on the bone is a great way to reduce food waste. Instead of throwing away a perfectly good ham, you can use it to make a variety of delicious meals.
- Saving Money: Cooking leftover ham on the bone can also save you money. Instead of buying new ingredients, you can use what you already have on hand.
- Creating New Meals: Cooking leftover ham on the bone allows you to create new and exciting meals. Whether you’re making a hearty soup or a tasty casserole, you can use leftover ham on the bone as the main ingredient.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we start cooking, let’s talk about choosing the right ham. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Look for a Ham with a Good Balance of Meat and Fat: A good ham should have a balance of meat and fat. This will ensure that it’s juicy and flavorful.
- Choose a Ham with a Good Glaze: A good glaze can make all the difference in the flavor of your ham. Look for a ham with a sweet and sticky glaze.
- Consider the Size of the Ham: The size of the ham will depend on the number of people you’re serving. A larger ham is perfect for a big family dinner, while a smaller ham is better for a smaller gathering.
Types of Ham
There are many different types of ham to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here are a few popular types of ham:
- Spiral-Cut Ham: A spiral-cut ham is a popular choice for holiday meals. It’s easy to slice and serves a large crowd.
- Bone-In Ham: A bone-in ham is a great choice for cooking leftover ham on the bone. It’s more flavorful than a boneless ham and has a better texture.
- Country Ham: A country ham is a type of ham that’s cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. It’s a great choice for cooking leftover ham on the bone.
Cooking Methods
Now that we’ve talked about choosing the right ham, let’s talk about cooking methods. Here are a few ways to cook leftover ham on the bone:
Oven-Roasted Ham
Oven-roasting is a great way to cook leftover ham on the bone. It’s easy and flavorful, and it’s perfect for a big family dinner. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Score the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Place the ham in the oven and roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Baste the ham with pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Slow Cooker Ham
A slow cooker is a great way to cook leftover ham on the bone. It’s easy and convenient, and it’s perfect for a busy day. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Place the ham in a slow cooker.
- Add your favorite ingredients, such as pineapple rings and cherries.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the ham is tender and flavorful.
Grilled Ham
Grilling is a great way to cook leftover ham on the bone. It’s easy and flavorful, and it’s perfect for a summer barbecue. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the ham on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Baste the ham with your favorite glaze every few minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Recipe Ideas
Now that we’ve talked about cooking methods, let’s talk about recipe ideas. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Ham and Bean Soup: A hearty soup made with leftover ham on the bone, beans, and vegetables.
- Ham and Cheese Quiche: A delicious quiche made with leftover ham on the bone, cheese, and eggs.
- Ham and Vegetable Casserole: A tasty casserole made with leftover ham on the bone, vegetables, and pasta.
Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe for ham and bean soup:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Leftover ham on the bone | 1 ham |
| Dried navy beans | 1 cup |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Carrots | 2 medium |
| Celery | 2 stalks |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
- Place the ham on the bone in a large pot.
- Add the dried navy beans, onion, carrots, celery, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Remove the ham from the pot and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the ham to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Conclusion
Cooking leftover ham on the bone is a great way to reduce food waste, save money, and create new and exciting meals. Whether you’re oven-roasting, slow cooking, or grilling, there are many ways to cook leftover ham on the bone. We hope this article has inspired you to try something new and delicious. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to store leftover ham on the bone?
To store leftover ham on the bone, it’s essential to keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a covered container. You can also use a zip-top plastic bag or a vacuum-sealed bag to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the ham.
When storing leftover ham, make sure to label the container with the date it was cooked and what it is. This will help you keep track of how long it’s been stored and ensure you use it before it goes bad. Cooked ham can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze leftover ham on the bone?
Yes, you can freeze leftover ham on the bone. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve the ham for a longer period. To freeze, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Make sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing the bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
When freezing leftover ham, it’s essential to label the container with the date it was cooked and what it is. Frozen ham can be safely stored for 3 to 6 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or reheat it straight from the freezer.
What are some popular ways to cook leftover ham on the bone?
There are several popular ways to cook leftover ham on the bone, including baking, grilling, and slow cooking. Baking is a simple and easy method that involves wrapping the ham in foil and heating it in the oven until warmed through. Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor to the ham, while slow cooking is perfect for tenderizing the meat and making it fall-off-the-bone delicious.
You can also add some flavor to your leftover ham by glazing it with a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and spices. This will give the ham a sweet and sticky exterior that’s perfect for serving as a main dish or using in sandwiches and salads.
How do I know when the leftover ham is cooked through?
To ensure that your leftover ham is cooked through, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C) to ensure food safety. You can also check the ham’s color and texture – it should be lightly browned on the outside and tender on the inside.
If you’re reheating leftover ham, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that any bacteria that may have grown during storage are killed. This is especially important if you’re serving the ham to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or young children.
Can I use leftover ham on the bone in soups and stews?
Yes, leftover ham on the bone is perfect for using in soups and stews. The bone adds flavor to the broth, while the meat can be shredded or diced and added to the soup or stew. Some popular soups and stews that use leftover ham include bean soup, pea soup, and lentil stew.
When using leftover ham in soups and stews, make sure to remove the bone before serving. You can also use the bone to make a delicious ham stock, which can be used as a base for soups and stews.
How do I remove the meat from the bone?
To remove the meat from the bone, start by letting the ham cool slightly. Then, use a fork to gently pull the meat away from the bone. You can also use a knife to cut the meat away from the bone, but be careful not to cut yourself.
Once you’ve removed the meat from the bone, you can shred or chop it and use it in a variety of dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. The bone can be discarded or used to make a delicious ham stock.
Can I use leftover ham on the bone in casseroles?
Yes, leftover ham on the bone is perfect for using in casseroles. The meat can be shredded or diced and added to the casserole, while the bone can be used to add flavor to the dish. Some popular casseroles that use leftover ham include ham and potato casserole, ham and broccoli casserole, and ham and noodle casserole.
When using leftover ham in casseroles, make sure to remove the bone before serving. You can also use the bone to make a delicious ham stock, which can be used to add moisture and flavor to the casserole.