So, you’ve got yourself a pre-cooked ham and now you’re wondering how to make it the star of your meal? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! Since it’s already cooked, your main goal isn’t to cook it, but to warm it up and add some flavor. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get that delicious, perfectly warmed ham on the table.
Contents
Understanding Your Ham
First things first, let’s talk about the ham itself. Most hams you buy at the store are pre-cooked, meaning they’ve already been heated to a safe internal temperature. This is great news for you because it cuts down on cooking time and reduces the risk of drying it out. Your goal is simply to bring it up to a serving temperature and maybe add a glaze to make it extra special.
Choosing Your Cooking Method
You’ve got a few options when it comes to warming your ham. Each has its pros and cons, so pick the one that best suits your needs and equipment:
- Oven: The oven is a classic choice. It heats the ham evenly and allows you to baste it with a glaze.
- Slow Cooker: A slow cooker is fantastic for keeping the ham moist, but it might not give you that beautiful caramelized glaze.
- Microwave: This is the quickest option, but it can sometimes dry out the ham if you’re not careful.
Oven Method: Step-by-Step
Let’s dive into the oven method, which is a popular and reliable way to warm up a pre-cooked ham.
What You’ll Need:
- Pre-cooked ham
- Roasting pan with a rack
- Aluminum foil
- Meat thermometer
- Optional: Glaze ingredients (brown sugar, honey, mustard, fruit juice, etc.)
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any plastic discs or wrappings. Place the ham cut-side down on a rack in a roasting pan. This helps keep the ham moist.
- Add Moisture: Pour about 1/2 inch of water or broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This creates steam, which prevents the ham from drying out.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil. This is crucial for retaining moisture.
- Bake According to Size: Bake for about 10-14 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the ham, being careful not to touch the bone.
- Apply Glaze (Optional): In the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and brush the ham generously with your favorite glaze. Return it to the oven uncovered to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Rest: Once the ham reaches 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
Slow Cooker Method: A Hands-Off Approach
If you’re looking for a super convenient method, the slow cooker is your friend.
What You’ll Need:
- Pre-cooked ham (that fits in your slow cooker)
- Slow cooker
- Optional: Glaze ingredients
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham: Trim off any excess skin from the ham, if desired. If your ham is too large to fit in the slow cooker, you may need to cut it in half.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Place the ham cut-side down in the slow cooker.
- Add Liquid: Pour about 1 cup of water, broth, or fruit juice into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Glaze (Optional): If you want to add a glaze, brush it on during the last hour of cooking. Keep in mind that the glaze won’t caramelize as much in a slow cooker as it would in the oven.
- Rest: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Microwave Method: For When You’re in a Hurry
Need ham in a flash? The microwave can do the trick, but proceed with caution.
What You’ll Need:
- Pre-cooked ham (slices or a small portion)
- Microwave-safe dish
- Microwave-safe cover or plastic wrap
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to the dish to help keep it moist.
- Cover and Microwave: Cover the dish with a microwave-safe cover or plastic wrap (vent the plastic wrap to allow steam to escape).
- Microwave: Microwave on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals, checking the temperature frequently. You want to heat it until it’s warmed through, but not overcooked. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Rest: Let the ham rest for a minute or two before serving.
Glaze Ideas to Elevate Your Ham
A glaze can take your ham from good to amazing! Here are a few popular options:
- Brown Sugar and Honey: Combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Maple Syrup and Mustard: Mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cloves.
- Pineapple and Brown Sugar: Combine crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and a dash of cinnamon.
Tips for a Perfect Ham
- Don’t Overcook: Since the ham is already cooked, overcooking will dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature (140°F/60°C).
- Keep it Moist: Adding water or broth to the pan and covering the ham with foil will help retain moisture.
- Rest Before Carving: Letting the ham rest allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
FAQ
- How do I store leftover ham?
- Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze leftover ham?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover ham. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- What can I do with leftover ham?
- The possibilities are endless! Use it in sandwiches, omelets, soups, salads, casseroles, and more.
- How do I carve a ham?
- Place the ham on a cutting board. If it’s a bone-in ham, slice down along the bone to remove the meat. Then, slice the ham into thin slices. For a boneless ham, simply slice it into thin slices.
- What temperature should I cook the ham to?
- Since your ham is pre-cooked, you only need to heat it to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Cooking an already cooked ham is a breeze. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and impressive centerpiece for your next meal. Enjoy!