How to Prepare Fully Cooked Ham
Fully cooked ham is a convenient and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re preparing a quick sandwich, a hearty pasta dish, or a festive holiday meal, knowing how to properly prepare fully cooked ham can elevate your culinary creations. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to prepare fully cooked ham, ensuring that it’s ready to be enjoyed in all its deliciousness.
1. Thawing the Ham
Before you begin preparing your fully cooked ham, it’s essential to ensure that it’s properly thawed. There are two safe methods for thawing ham: in the refrigerator or in cold water.
– Refrigerator Method: Place the ham in a leak-proof container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw gradually. The general rule is to thaw 1 pound of ham for every 24 hours. This method is ideal if you have enough time for the ham to thaw slowly and evenly.
– Cold Water Method: If you need to thaw the ham quickly, place it in a sealed, leak-proof plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold. This method can thaw ham in as little as 30 minutes per pound.
2. Preparing the Ham
Once the ham is thawed, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:
– Remove any packaging: Take off the outer wrapping and any additional plastic or paper packaging that may be around the ham.
– Trim the fat: Use a sharp knife to trim off any excess fat from the surface of the ham. This will help prevent flare-ups if you’re cooking the ham in a skillet or on the grill.
– Score the ham: For a festive presentation and to enhance the flavor, you can score the ham by making shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern on the surface. This allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat more effectively.
– Season the ham: Rub the ham with your favorite spices, herbs, or a simple mixture of salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Be sure to cover all sides evenly.
3. Cooking the Ham
Now that your ham is prepared, you can cook it in a variety of ways:
– Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it loosely with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
– Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Place the ham in the skillet and cook for about 10-15 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
– Slow Cooker: Place the ham in the slow cooker and add any desired liquid, such as apple juice or beer. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the ham is heated through.
4. Serving Suggestions
Fully cooked ham can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
– Ham sandwiches: Slice the ham thinly and serve it on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and mustard.
– Pasta dishes: Add cooked ham to pasta dishes like macaroni and cheese, pasta primavera, or a creamy mushroom risotto.
– Holiday meals: Serve sliced ham as a centerpiece for your holiday feast, alongside other traditional dishes like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to prepare fully cooked ham with ease and enjoy it in all its mouthwatering glory. Happy cooking!
