How to Prepare a Smoked Picnic Ham
Are you planning a picnic and looking for a delicious main dish to impress your guests? Look no further! Preparing a smoked picnic ham is a fantastic way to add an extra layer of flavor to your outdoor feast. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to prepare a smoked picnic ham, ensuring that your ham is tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky goodness.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 fully cooked picnic ham (about 8-10 pounds)
– 1 cup of your favorite wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry are popular choices)
– 1/2 cup of apple juice
– 1/4 cup of honey
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Preparation
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking temperature is essential for smoking the ham properly.
2. While the smoker is heating up, prepare the wood chips. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning too quickly.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the apple juice, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will serve as your marinade and baste for the ham.
4. Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the marinade adhere better to the ham.
Smoking the Ham
1. Once the smoker is preheated, place the ham in the smoker. If you have a ham stand, use it to keep the ham elevated and ensure even smoking.
2. Add the soaked wood chips to the smoker. You can use a chip basket or place them directly on the coals.
3. Baste the ham with the marinade every 30 minutes. This will keep the ham moist and add extra flavor.
4. Cook the ham for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your ham and the smoker’s temperature.
5. After the ham has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the ham even more tender.
Serving Suggestions
Once your smoked picnic ham is ready, it’s time to serve it up! Here are a few ideas to complement your delicious ham:
– Serve it with a side of baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread.
– Pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a garden salad.
– Add it to sandwiches for a delightful picnic treat.
Now that you know how to prepare a smoked picnic ham, you can impress your guests with a mouthwatering main dish that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering. Enjoy your smoked picnic ham and have a wonderful time with your loved ones!
