How to Cook a Bone-In Ham
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Introduction:
A delicious and tender bone-in ham can be the centerpiece of a festive meal that everyone will love. But cooking this timeless classic can seem intimidating. Fear not! Our simple step-by-step guide will help you achieve a juicy, flavorful bone-in ham that will impress your family and guests.
Step 1: Choose Your Ham
When selecting a bone-in ham, look for one with a layer of fat for added flavor. A fresh or cured ham is preferable, as it retains more of its natural taste and texture. Aim for a size that will feed the number of people you’re serving; allow ¾ pound per person for a bone-in ham.
Step 2: Preparing Your Ham
Once you’ve chosen your perfect ham, remove it from its packaging and give it a good rinse under cold running water. Pat it dry with paper towels, then place it on a cutting board. If there’s an excess of fat or skin, trim it down to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Step 3: Scoring the Ham
To create an eye-catching diamond pattern on your ham, use a sharp knife to score the surface. Make diagonal cuts about one-inch apart and one-quarter-inch deep in one direction, then repeat in the opposite direction.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) while you prepare your seasoning mixture.
Step 5: Seasoning Your Ham
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and your choice of spices such as cloves or cinnamon. Mix well until you have a thick paste. Rub this mixture all over the scored surface of your ham, making sure to press it into the cuts.
Step 6: Roasting Your Ham
Place your seasoned ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. This allows the excess fat to drip away from the ham as it cooks. Add about an inch of water to the bottom of the roasting pan to prevent the juices from burning and to help maintain moisture.
Step 7: Cook to Perfection
Cover your ham with aluminum foil, sealing it well around the edges of the pan. Cook at 325°F (160°C) for approximately 18 minutes per pound. For example, a 10-pound ham would cook for around three hours.
Step 8: Uncover and Glaze
About 30 minutes before your ham is done cooking, remove it from the oven and uncover it. Baste with pan juices and glaze with an additional layer of brown sugar mixture. Return the ham, uncovered, to the oven and continue cooking for the remaining time.
Step 9: Check Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check that your ham has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures that it’s cooked through and safe to eat.
Step 10: Rest and Serve
Remove your bone-in ham from the oven and allow it to rest on a cutting board for about 15 minutes before carving. This will let juices redistribute within the meat, resulting in a moist and tender feast.
Conclusion:
With these straightforward steps, you can confidently prepare a mouthwatering bone-in ham that will be cherished by all at your dinner table. So go ahead, cook up this classic dish, and enjoy sharing it with your family and friends!