Introduction:
Are you ready to impress your family and friends with an irresistible holiday dinner? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking a ham that is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, our easy-to-follow recipe will ensure your ham turns out perfectly every time.
How to Choose a Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about the different types of ham you’ll come across in the store. You’ll typically find spiral cuts, bone-in ham, and boneless hams. While all these options are great, our personal favorite is the spiral sliced ham. It’s not only easy to serve, but it also makes for an impressive centerpiece on your dinner table.
Ham Glaze Recipe
Now that you’ve chosen your ham, it’s time to prepare a delicious glaze that will elevate its flavors. Our glaze combines three sweeteners: honey, brown sugar, and maple syrup. To give it a little kick, we add a touch of dijon mustard and black pepper. Feel free to experiment and add cloves or ginger for a festive twist. Once you’ve mixed up the glaze, it’s time to move on to the cooking process.
How to Cook a Ham
Baking a ham is easier than you might think. Simply follow these simple steps:
- Place the ham in a shallow roasting pan or a 9×13″ pan, without using a rack. This allows the ham to soak in the added and natural juices, ensuring it stays juicy.
- Pour a cup of ginger ale and a cup of orange juice over the ham. Not only will this enhance the flavor, but it will also keep the ham moist while it cooks.
- Cover the ham or the pan with foil, making sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent the ham from drying out.
- Set the oven to 350ºF and bake the ham, basting it every 15-20 minutes. Uncover the ham when you baste it, and then cover it back up when you return it to the oven.
How Long to Bake Ham
The cooking time will depend on the weight of your ham. As a general rule, it takes about 10-15 minutes per pound to heat a spiral sliced ham to 140ºF. For example, a 10-pound ham will usually take around 1 ½ to 2 hours in a 350ºF oven. Keep an eye on the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the desired doneness.
Can I Make This Ham in the Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! If you prefer using a slow cooker, you can still achieve a tender and flavorful ham. Simply set the slow cooker to low, place the ham inside, and pour the ginger ale and orange juice over it. Prepare the glaze separately and pour it over the ham. After 4-5 hours of cooking, your ham should be warmed through. Remember to baste it several times while it cooks to distribute those delicious flavors evenly. Although slow cooker ham may not look as visually appealing as oven-baked ham, it will still taste incredible.
How to Use the Ham Bone
Once you’re finished serving the ham, don’t let the leftover ham bone go to waste. You can use it to make two delicious soups: Ham Bone Soup and Ham and Bean Soup. These soups are perfect for making the most of your ham leftovers and creating comforting meals for days to come.
Side Dishes for Ham
No meal is complete without delectable side dishes. Here are some mouthwatering options that pair perfectly with ham:
- Corn Casserole
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
- Italian Green Beans
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Potatoes
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Christmas Green Beans
- Pudding Rolls
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You are now equipped with all the knowledge needed to cook a ham that will be the star of your holiday dinner. Remember to choose the right ham, prepare a delicious glaze, and follow our simple cooking instructions. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a tender, juicy, and flavorful ham that will have everyone asking for seconds. For more cooking inspiration and recipes, visit Ekilove.com. Happy cooking!
