How to Prepare Spiral Ham
Spiral ham is a popular choice for many holiday meals and gatherings due to its juicy and tender texture. Preparing spiral ham can seem daunting at first, but with the right steps and techniques, you can create a delicious and impressive dish. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to prepare spiral ham, ensuring that your dish turns out perfectly every time.
First and foremost, you need to select the right spiral ham. Look for a well-marbled, bone-in ham with a shiny, reddish-brown skin. It’s also important to check the weight of the ham, as this will determine the cooking time. A general rule of thumb is to allow for 20 minutes of cooking time per pound of ham.
Once you have your spiral ham, it’s time to start preparing it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare spiral ham:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Remove the ham from the packaging and rinse it under cold water to remove any excess salt or brine.
3. Pat the ham dry with paper towels to prevent it from steaming in the oven.
4. Score the fat on the ham by making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern. This will help the ham render and become crispy during cooking.
5. Preheat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add any herbs or spices you like, such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic, and cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
6. Brush the herb mixture over the scored fat on the ham, ensuring that it’s well-coated.
7. Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.
8. Cover the ham with a piece of aluminum foil, ensuring that it is tightly sealed to trap the heat and moisture.
9. Bake the ham in the preheated oven for the recommended cooking time, which is usually around 15-20 minutes per pound. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) when cooked.
10. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender.
11. After resting, slice the ham into thin slices and serve with your favorite sides.
In addition to the basic steps, there are a few tips to keep in mind when preparing spiral ham:
– Don’t forget to check the internal temperature of the ham before serving, as overcooking can make it dry.
– If you’re short on time, you can use a pre-cooked spiral ham, but make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for the best results.
– Adding a glaze or a honey mustard sauce to the ham can enhance its flavor and make it even more irresistible.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to prepare a mouthwatering spiral ham that will impress your guests and make your holiday meal extra special. Happy cooking!
