Delicious Ways to Finish a Pre-Cooked Ham

Let's face it, pre-cooked ham is a culinary lifesaver. It's convenient, often delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. But sometimes, you crave something more than just the standard ham. I know the feeling – I've been there countless times! Whether it's a simple weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for a holiday gathering, there are countless delicious ways to finish off a pre-cooked ham and elevate it to something truly special. Let's dive into some of my absolute favourite ideas and techniques.

(Part 1) Glazing for Glory

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to elevate a pre-cooked ham is with a glaze. A glaze adds a layer of flavour and a beautiful sheen, making the ham visually appealing and even tastier. I always have a few go-to glazes in my repertoire, and I'm constantly experimenting with new combinations!

honey mustard glaze

This is my go-to for a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for a classic ham that doesn't need much fuss. I simply whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. The combination of sweet, tangy, and a hint of acidity creates a truly delightful flavour profile. This glaze is perfect for those who love a classic balance of flavours.

Brown Sugar and maple glaze

For a rich and buttery glaze that complements the ham beautifully, I combine brown sugar, maple syrup, and a touch of butter. The brown sugar and maple syrup create a caramelized sweetness, while the butter adds a luxurious richness. A pinch of cinnamon or ginger can add a warm complexity to this glaze. If you’re a fan of decadent flavours, this glaze is a winner.

Spicy pineapple glaze

If you're looking for something more adventurous, a spicy pineapple glaze is a great option. I love to use fresh pineapple, a touch of chilli powder, and a hint of ginger. The heat of the chilli powder balances beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple, creating a flavour explosion. The pineapple adds a lovely tropical touch, making this glaze perfect for a festive occasion or simply for those who appreciate a bit of heat.

Tips for Glazing

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your glaze:

• Brush the glaze on the ham in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. This allows the glaze to caramelize and create a beautiful crust. It's a game-changer when it comes to texture and flavour.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavours. There are countless flavour combinations you can try. Use your favourite flavours, and don't be afraid to let your creativity guide you. You might just discover a new favourite glaze!
• If you have leftovers, reheat the ham in a slow cooker with some of the glaze. It's a great way to ensure the ham stays moist and the flavours meld together even more.

(Part 2) Beyond the Basics: ham recipes

While glazes are fantastic, you can also create truly remarkable meals with a pre-cooked ham. Let's explore a few of my favourite ham-centric recipes.

Ham and bean soup

A hearty and comforting soup, perfect for a chilly day. I start with a good ham bone, some onions, carrots, and celery, and simmer them in chicken stock for a few hours. This creates a rich base of flavour. Then, I add some beans, and season with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika. The ham bone gives the soup an incredible depth of flavour that you just can't replicate any other way. This soup is perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in.

Ham and Potato Hash

A quick and easy breakfast or brunch dish that's both satisfying and flavourful. Dice some cooked ham and potatoes, and sauté them in a pan with some onions, garlic, and herbs. A bit of paprika, chilli flakes, or even a dash of smoked paprika adds a beautiful depth of flavour to the dish. You can even add some bell peppers, chilli flakes, or other vegetables for an extra kick. This hash is a great way to use up leftovers and it’s perfect for those mornings when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

ham and cheese quiche

A classic quiche that's both elegant and delicious. I like to use a pre-made pie crust, which saves time without sacrificing quality. Fill it with a mixture of eggs, milk, cheese, and diced ham. It's a real crowd-pleaser and is perfect for a brunch or a light dinner. It’s also a great dish for entertaining because you can make it ahead of time.

Ham and Pineapple fried rice

A fun and flavourful twist on a classic dish. I stir-fry diced ham, pineapple, vegetables, and rice with some soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. This is a great way to use up leftovers, and it’s a dish that’s always a hit with the whole family. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory ham, and aromatic spices creates a truly unique flavour profile.

Ham and Spinach Stuffed chicken breast

For a more sophisticated dinner, stuff chicken breasts with a mixture of cooked ham, spinach, and cheese. I bake them in the oven until they are cooked through and golden brown. Serve with your favourite side dish. This is a dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

(Part 3) The Art of the Leftovers

Once you've enjoyed your delicious ham, don't forget the leftovers! ham leftovers are a culinary goldmine, offering a plethora of delicious possibilities.

ham sandwiches

A classic for a reason! I like to use a soft bread roll, and pile on the sliced ham, mustard, and pickles. You can also add lettuce, tomato, and cheese for a more substantial sandwich. This is a simple but satisfying way to use up leftover ham, and it's perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

Ham and pea soup

A light and refreshing soup, perfect for a warm day. I start with a ham bone, onions, carrots, and celery, and simmer them in chicken stock for a few hours. Then, I add some frozen peas and season with salt and pepper. It’s a quick and easy soup that’s full of flavour and perfect for a light meal or a starter.

Ham and Cheese Croquettes

A fun and tasty way to use up leftover ham. I mash together cooked ham, potatoes, and cheese, and form them into small balls. Then I bread them and fry them until golden brown. Serve with your favourite dipping sauce. These croquettes are a great way to use up leftover ham, and they're perfect for a party or a snack.

Ham and potato salad

A classic picnic or potluck dish. I mix together diced cooked ham, potatoes, celery, onions, and a creamy dressing. You can add other ingredients, like hard-boiled eggs, pickles, or bell peppers, to your taste. This is a versatile salad that can be adapted to your liking, and it’s always a hit at any gathering.

Ham and Cheese Pizza

A delicious and easy pizza for a quick weeknight dinner. I use a pre-made pizza base and top it with ham, cheese, and whatever other toppings I have on hand. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, and it’s always a hit with the whole family.

(Part 4) Ham and Other Meats: A Match Made in Heaven

Ham is a versatile ingredient that pairs beautifully with other meats. You can create delicious and complex dishes by incorporating ham into your culinary creations.

Ham and Chicken Casserole

A hearty and comforting casserole that's perfect for a cold winter day. I layer diced ham, cooked chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce in a baking dish. Then, I bake it in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. The combination of ham, chicken, and vegetables creates a truly satisfying meal, and the creamy sauce adds a touch of richness and comfort.

Ham and Sausage Pasta

A flavourful and easy pasta dish. I sauté diced ham and sausage with onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Then, I add pasta, tomato sauce, and seasonings. It's a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The ham and sausage add a lovely savory flavour to the dish, and the tomato sauce provides a vibrant acidity.

Ham and Beef Stir-Fry

A quick and easy stir-fry that’s full of flavour. I stir-fry diced ham and beef with vegetables and a savoury sauce. You can use whatever vegetables you like. I love to add broccoli, carrots, and peppers. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and it’s always a hit with the whole family. The combination of ham and beef adds a wonderful depth of flavour, and the vegetables provide a welcome freshness.

(Part 5) Ham Around the World

Pre-cooked ham is a global staple, and there are many regional and cultural variations on how to enjoy it. Let's take a look at a few examples of how different cultures incorporate ham into their cuisine.

Ham and Asparagus in Germany

In Germany, pre-cooked ham is often served with asparagus. The combination of the salty ham and the delicate asparagus is a classic pairing. I love to serve it with a dollop of hollandaise sauce for a truly luxurious meal. This pairing showcases the versatility of ham and its ability to complement both delicate and bold flavours.

Ham and Melon in Spain

In Spain, pre-cooked ham is often served with melon. The sweetness of the melon balances out the saltiness of the ham. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This combination is a testament to the ability of ham to elevate even the simplest ingredients.

Ham and Beans in the Caribbean

In the Caribbean, pre-cooked ham is often used in a variety of bean dishes. The ham adds a lot of flavour to the beans. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cold winter day. This dish highlights the way ham can add depth and richness to hearty and comforting meals.

Ham and Rice in the Philippines

In the Philippines, pre-cooked ham is often used in a variety of rice dishes. The ham adds a lot of flavour to the rice and it’s a great way to use up leftovers. This demonstrates how ham can enhance even the simplest of dishes, making it a versatile ingredient in many cultures.

(Part 6) Ham as a Side Dish

While pre-cooked ham is often the star of the show, it can also be a great addition to other dishes. Here are a few ways to incorporate ham as a side dish.

Ham and Cheese Biscuits

A quick and easy breakfast or snack. I use store-bought biscuit dough and add diced ham and cheese. Bake until the biscuits are golden brown and fluffy. This is a great way to add a savoury twist to a classic breakfast item.

Ham and broccoli salad

A refreshing and healthy salad that’s perfect for a potluck or picnic. I mix together cooked ham, broccoli florets, shredded carrots, and a creamy dressing. You can add other ingredients, like cranberries, almonds, or raisins, to your taste. This is a versatile salad that can be adapted to your liking, and it’s always a hit at any gathering.

Ham and potato soup

A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a cold winter day. I start with a ham bone, potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery, and simmer them in chicken stock for a few hours. It’s a simple soup that’s full of flavour. This soup is a great way to use up leftover ham bone and it’s always a comforting meal.

Ham and Cheese Quesadillas

A quick and easy lunch or snack. I use flour tortillas and fill them with diced ham, cheese, and whatever other fillings I have on hand. I then cook them in a pan until they are golden brown and crispy. This is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ham and Pea Risotto

A creamy and flavourful risotto. I use arborio rice and add diced ham, peas, and a rich chicken stock. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and it’s always a hit with the whole family. The combination of ham, peas, and arborio rice creates a truly unique flavour profile, and the chicken stock adds a rich depth of flavour.

(Part 7) Ham, Sweet and Savoury

While ham is known for its savoury applications, it can also be incorporated into sweet desserts. This might sound unusual, but ham adds a unique dimension to both classic and innovative desserts.

Ham and Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

A classic dessert with a twist. I use a pre-made cake mix and add diced ham and pineapple to the bottom of the cake pan. I then bake the cake until it is golden brown and fluffy. It’s a delicious and unexpected dessert that’s sure to impress. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory ham, and cake creates a unique and surprisingly harmonious flavour profile.

Ham and Date Pudding

A hearty and comforting pudding that's perfect for a cold winter day. I combine diced ham, dates, and a rich custard sauce. I then bake it in the oven until the pudding is set. It's a delicious and unusual dessert that's sure to impress. The sweetness of the dates complements the savory ham, creating a unique and satisfying dessert.

Ham and Cherry Tart

A tart with a unique twist. I use a pre-made tart shell and fill it with diced ham, cherries, and a creamy custard sauce. I then bake the tart until it is golden brown and set. It's a delicious and unusual dessert that's sure to impress. The tartness of the cherries balances beautifully with the savory ham, creating a truly unique and memorable dessert experience.

(Part 8) FAQs

Now, let's address some common questions you might have about finishing pre-cooked ham.

How long do I need to cook the ham?

Pre-cooked ham is already cooked, so you only need to heat it up. You can heat it in the oven, in a slow cooker, or on the stovetop. Check the package instructions for the specific heating times and temperatures. Remember that the goal is to heat the ham through, not to cook it further.

What temperature should I cook the ham to?

You don't need to cook pre-cooked ham to a specific internal temperature because it's already safe to eat. The goal is just to heat it through. The package instructions will typically provide guidance on the appropriate temperature and time for reheating.

What are some good side dishes for ham?

There are many great side dishes that go well with ham. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, green beans, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and cornbread. You can also consider serving a salad or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

How long can I store leftover ham?

Leftover ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When freezing ham, it's important to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

What are some creative ways to use leftover ham?

There are many creative ways to use leftover ham! It’s a versatile ingredient. You can use it in sandwiches, salads, soups, stir-fries, casseroles, and more. You can also incorporate it into breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs, omelets, and frittatas. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavours and textures.