Cured Ham Cooking Guide: Delicious Recipes and Tips

You've got yourself a lovely piece of cured ham, haven't you? Maybe you snagged a whole one, or perhaps just a hunk from the deli counter. Whatever the case, you're probably wondering what to do with it. Well, I'm here to tell you, you've come to the right place! I've been a ham enthusiast for ages, and let me tell you, I've learned a thing or two about cooking it perfectly. We're going to dive into everything, from picking the right ham to crafting delicious recipes. I'll even throw in some tips from my own kitchen adventures, so you can feel confident in turning that cured ham into a real showstopper.

(Part 1) Choosing the perfect ham

The first thing we need to do is choose the right ham. It's not just about grabbing the first one you see. You wouldn't just pick any old cheese, would you? Let's dive into the wonderful world of ham varieties.

Types of Cured Ham

There are a few main types of cured ham you'll encounter. The first one you'll likely see is cooked ham. This bad boy is already cooked and ready to eat, making it perfect for a quick and easy meal. Slice it thin and enjoy it on sandwiches, or serve it cold with some pickles and mustard. It's a simple yet satisfying treat!Then there's raw ham. This one needs to be cooked before you can eat it, and it tends to be saltier than cooked ham. However, it also packs a punch of flavour, and makes for a seriously delicious roast.Next up, we have dry-cured ham. This ham is aged for a long time, developing a rich, salty flavour. It's often sliced very thin and served as an appetizer or on charcuterie boards. You might be familiar with some famous dry-cured hams like prosciutto or jamón ibérico - they're real taste sensations.And then there's smoked ham. This ham gets its smoky flavour from being smoked over wood chips. It can be either cooked or raw, and it's often used in ham and bean soups or stews.

Tips for Choosing the Right Ham

Okay, so you're ready to choose your ham. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Consider the flavour profile: Do you prefer a mild and sweet ham, or something bolder and saltier? This will help you choose the right type of ham for your needs.
• Think about the occasion: Are you making a fancy dinner party spread, or just a quick weeknight meal? This will help you decide if you want a whole ham or just a chunk.
• Check the label: Make sure you understand the ham's ingredients and cooking instructions. This will help you avoid any surprises in the kitchen.

(Part 2) Preparing Your Ham

Now that you've got your ham, it's time to get ready for cooking.

Removing the Ham from the Packaging

First, remove the ham from its packaging. If it's wrapped in plastic, take your time and carefully unwrap it. You don't want to tear it or make a mess. Now, if your ham has a netting, you can remove it or leave it on, depending on your preference. I usually remove it because it tends to get a bit burnt during cooking.

Scoring the Ham

Now it's time to score the ham! This crucial step helps the ham cook evenly and allows the flavours to penetrate more deeply. Take a sharp knife and make diagonal cuts about 1/2 inch deep into the fat layer of the ham. Remember to leave a small margin around the edges to avoid cutting into the meat. You can even rub some mustard or brown sugar into the scored ham for an extra flavour boost.

Spreading a Glaze

Glazes add a beautiful colour and shine to your ham, but more importantly, they enhance the flavour. You can use a simple honey-mustard glaze, or get creative with something like a pineapple-ginger glaze. I've even tried a cherry-bourbon glaze for a fancy twist - it was divine!

(Part 3) Cooking Your Ham

Now, we're getting to the good stuff! Let's talk about cooking your ham.

Oven-Baking a Ham

Oven-baking is a classic way to cook a ham. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius) and place the ham in a roasting pan. Add some water to the bottom of the pan to prevent the ham from drying out. If you're using a raw ham, you'll need to cook it for about 20 minutes per pound. For cooked ham, you just need to heat it through, which takes about 15 minutes per pound. The ham is done when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).

Grilling a Ham

For a bit of a twist, you can grill your ham! It's a great way to get some lovely grill marks and smoky flavour. Preheat your grill to medium heat and place the ham on the grill. Cook it for about 15-20 minutes per side, or until the ham is cooked through.

Slow-cooking a ham

For a truly tender and flavorful ham, try slow-cooking it. This is a great option if you're looking for a hands-off method. Place the ham in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

(Part 4) Serving Your delicious ham

So, you've cooked your ham, and it looks absolutely stunning. Now it's time to serve it up and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Here are a few ideas for serving your ham:

• Serve it hot: You can serve the ham hot off the grill or straight from the oven.
• Slice it up: Slice the ham into thin pieces for sandwiches, salads, or charcuterie boards.
• Serve it cold: You can also serve the ham cold, which is perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Accompaniments

Now, let's talk sides. What goes well with ham? Well, I'd say just about anything! Here are a few ideas:

• Potatoes: Roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or potato salad are all great options.
• Greens: Asparagus, green beans, or a simple green salad are perfect to balance the richness of the ham.
• Fruits: Pineapple, cherries, or apples complement the salty flavour of ham beautifully.

(Part 5) ham recipes

Alright, so you're ready to get cooking! Here are a few delicious ham recipes to get your creative juices flowing.

Classic Ham and pea soup

This is a hearty and comforting soup perfect for a cold winter day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked ham, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup dried peas
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken broth, peas, and ham. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with a sprig of parsley.

Ham and Pineapple Skewers

These are a fun and festive appetizer perfect for a party.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked ham, cubed
• 1 pineapple, cubed
• Wooden skewers
• Honey-mustard glaze

Instructions:

1. Thread the ham and pineapple cubes onto the skewers.
2. Brush the skewers with honey-mustard glaze.
3. Grill or bake the skewers until the glaze is bubbly and the ham is heated through.
4. Serve immediately.

ham and cheese quiche

This is a classic dish that is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 pie crust
• 1 lb cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (your choice)
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. Place the pie crust in a pie plate.
3. Spread the ham and cheese evenly over the crust.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set.

(Part 6) Leftovers - Don't Waste That Ham!

You cooked up a storm, and now you've got leftover ham. Don't fret! It's a fantastic opportunity to get creative and enjoy a delicious meal, without the hassle of cooking a whole ham again.

Sandwich Heaven

Ah, the classic ham sandwich! Whether you go for a simple ham and cheese or add some mustard and pickles, it's a winner. You can even take it up a notch with a creamy avocado spread or some crunchy lettuce.

Salads That Sing

Leftover ham is a fantastic addition to salads. It adds protein and a savoury flavour that can really elevate your salad game. Toss it with a simple green salad, a potato salad, or a pasta salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Soups and Stews Galore

Toss some leftover ham into a soup or stew for an extra layer of flavour. It works wonders in a hearty bean soup, a comforting potato and leek soup, or a rich lentil stew. The ham adds a depth of flavour that you won't regret.

Ham and Veggie Hash

For a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch, try a ham and veggie hash. Dice some leftover ham and throw it into a pan with some diced potatoes, onions, and your favourite vegetables. Fry it up until it's crispy and delicious.

(Part 7) ham storage

Alright, so you've got your leftover ham and you're ready to put it away for later. Here's how to store it properly to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Refrigerator Storage

The best way to store leftover ham is in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Ham

You can also freeze leftover ham. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. It's best to freeze it in smaller portions, so you can easily thaw out just what you need. Frozen ham can last for up to 2 months.

Thawing Frozen Ham

When you're ready to use your frozen ham, thaw it in the refrigerator. It takes about 24 hours for a 5-pound ham to thaw completely. You can also thaw it in cold water. Just submerge the ham in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. This method takes about 3-4 hours for a 5-pound ham.

(Part 8) FAQs

You've got questions, I've got answers! Here are some common questions about cured ham.

What is the best way to cook a whole ham?

The best way to cook a whole ham depends on your preferences and the type of ham you have. Oven-baking is a classic method for a tender and juicy ham. You can also grill it for a smoky flavour, or slow-cook it for a super-tender and flavourful result.

Can I cook a ham in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can cook a ham in a pressure cooker. It's a quick and easy method that produces a tender and flavorful ham. You can cook a whole ham in a pressure cooker, or you can just cook a ham steak.

How long can I keep cooked ham in the refrigerator?

You can keep cooked ham in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.

Can I freeze cooked ham?

Yes, you can freeze cooked ham. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

What is the difference between cured ham and fresh ham?

Cured ham has been preserved through salting, drying, or smoking, giving it a longer shelf life and a more intense flavour. Fresh ham is unpreserved and needs to be cooked within a few days.

(Part 9) Ham and Its History

Ham, in its various forms, has been a staple food for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting that ham was consumed in ancient Rome, Greece, and Egypt. Ham's journey through history is fascinating, with its popularity evolving over time.

In medieval Europe, ham was a popular food for both the wealthy and the poor. It was a valuable source of protein and was often preserved by salting or smoking. The development of curing methods like dry curing and smoking made ham an even more valuable commodity. This allowed for long-term storage and transportation, making it a crucial food source for explorers and traders.

The Industrial Revolution brought about a shift in ham production, with large-scale factories and mass production becoming more common. This led to the development of more standardized ham products and the widespread availability of ham to the general population.

Today, ham remains a beloved food all over the world. It's a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in countless ways, from simple sandwiches to elaborate gourmet dishes. Ham's enduring popularity is a testament to its delicious flavour and versatility.

(Part 10) Beyond the Basics: Exploring Cured Ham Varieties

We've covered the basics of cured ham, but there's so much more to explore! Let's dive into some of the diverse and delicious varieties of cured ham found around the world.

Spanish Jamón Ibérico

Jamón Ibérico is a world-renowned dry-cured ham from Spain. It's made from the Iberian pig, a breed known for its rich marbling and delicious flavour. This ham undergoes a lengthy dry-curing process, which can take up to 36 months. The result is a ham with an intense, complex flavour and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. There are several grades of Jamón Ibérico, with the highest grade, "Bellota," being prized for its rich, nutty flavour and its distinctive marbling.

Italian Prosciutto

Prosciutto is a dry-cured ham from Italy. It's typically made from the hind leg of a pig, and is cured for several months. The result is a ham with a salty, slightly sweet flavour and a delicate texture. There are many types of prosciutto, including prosciutto di Parma, prosciutto di San Daniele, and prosciutto cotto (cooked prosciutto).

French Jambon de Bayonne

Jambon de Bayonne is a dry-cured ham from the Basque region of France. It's known for its delicate flavour and its distinctive marbling. This ham is cured for at least 12 months and is often served thinly sliced as an appetizer or on charcuterie boards.

German Schwarzw??lder Schinken

Schwarzw??lder Schinken is a smoked ham from the Black Forest region of Germany. It's cured with salt and sugar and then smoked over beechwood. This ham has a distinctive smoky flavour and is often used in sandwiches or served as a cold cut.

(Part 11) Ham's culinary legacy: Culinary Delights Around the World

Ham's journey through culinary history is a fascinating one, with its versatility and rich flavour leading to its use in a wide variety of dishes around the world. Let's explore a few examples of ham's culinary legacy:

Southern fried green tomatoes with Ham

In the American South, ham is a beloved ingredient, adding a depth of flavour to classic dishes. One such example is Southern fried green tomatoes with ham. This dish features crispy, fried green tomatoes topped with a savoury ham gravy. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that showcases the versatility of ham.

German Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten, a traditional German dish, features a pot roast marinated in a mixture of vinegar, wine, and spices, often including ham. The ham adds a salty and savory depth of flavour to the dish. It's typically served with dumplings and red cabbage, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Japanese Osechi Ryori

In Japanese cuisine, ham plays an important role in traditional Osechi Ryori, a celebratory dish served during the New Year. Ham is often served as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. It's a colourful and flavourful dish that reflects the importance of ham in Japanese culture.

Spanish Paella

Paella, a beloved Spanish rice dish, often features ham as a key ingredient. The ham adds a savoury depth of flavour to the paella, complementing the other ingredients like seafood, chicken, and vegetables.

So there you have it! Everything you need to know about cooking cured ham. I hope this guide has been helpful and has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen. Remember, cooking ham shouldn't be daunting, it should be fun! So grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking!