In the world of home-cooked meals, cooking a ham is a classic dish that always pleases. Whether you’re hosting family for the holidays or just looking to whip up a delicious meal, this guide will show you how to cook a ham that will have everyone coming back for more.
Contents
What Kind of Ham and Prep Should I Choose?
The first step to creating a delicious ham is choosing the right cut. You can buy a pre-cooked, pre-sliced ham, or an uncooked, whole ham. If you choose an uncooked, whole ham, you’ll need to allow at least 2 hours of cooking time. If you’re short on time, a pre-cooked, pre-sliced ham is a great option.
Once you’ve chosen your ham, prepping it for cooking is essential. If you’ve chosen a whole ham, you’ll need to remove the rind and any excess fat. To do this, use a sharp knife and cut away the rind in a spiral motion. Be sure to leave some fat on the ham for flavor. After removing the rind, score the fat in a diamond pattern.
How to Cook a Ham in the Oven
Once your ham is prepped, you’re ready to start cooking. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham, fat side up, in a roasting pan. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
If you’re cooking an uncooked ham, you’ll need to bake it for 20 minutes per pound. For example, if your ham weighs 10 pounds, you’ll need to bake it for 200 minutes.
Table 1: Time To Bake A Ham
| Ham Weight | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 1 pound | 20 minutes |
| 2 pounds | 40 minutes |
| 3 pounds | 60 minutes |
| 4 pounds | 80 minutes |
| 5 pounds | 100 minutes |
| 10 pounds | 200 minutes |
Once your ham is cooked, you can add any glaze or sauce you’d like. To make a classic glaze, mix together 2 tablespoons of mustard, 1/2 cup of honey, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Spread the glaze over the ham and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips for Making the Perfect Ham Every Time
For a perfectly cooked ham, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind. First, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the ham. The ham should reach a temperature of 140°F. This ensures the ham is properly cooked and safe to eat.
If the ham is getting too dark while cooking, reduce the temperature of the oven and add a few tablespoons of water to the roasting pan. This will help keep the ham from drying out and burning.
The Perfect Side Dishes for Your Ham
Now that your ham is cooked to perfection, it’s time to choose some delicious side dishes. To complete your meal, try some classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread. For a lighter option, a tossed green salad is a great choice.
If you’re looking for something a little more creative, roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes are always a hit. And don’t forget the rolls! Freshly baked rolls are a must for any meal.
Singing the Praises of Ham
Cooking a delicious ham is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a ham that is sure to please.
So, why don’t you take a break and try your hand at cooking a classic ham? After all, you “gotta have ham, ham, ham, ham.” (lyrics from “I Love to Eat Ham” by The Ham-sters).
Who knows? You may just become a ham master chef!
P.S. Don’t forget to save the leftovers for a delicious ham sandwich the next day.
