The Ultimate Guide to Roasting Ham: Methods and Tips
Introduction to Roasting Ham
Roasting ham is a classic and delicious preparation method that can elevate your cooking from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Whether you are opting for a city ham, which is usually pre-cooked, or a country ham, which is uncooked and requires soaking and a longer cooking process, the end result is always worth the effort. This guide is designed to help you master the art of roasting ham with confidence and ease.
Roasting City Ham
1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Set your oven to 275°F (135°C). For long and slow roasting, this temperature is ideal. Ensure your oven is preheated and ready before placing the ham inside.
2. Select the Right Pan
Place the ham in a roasting pan with high sides to catch the juices. Baking sheets, broiler pans, and casserole dishes may also be used. However, deep sides are generally better for roasting.
3. Score and Prepare the Fat
Use a chef's knife to score a diamond pattern into the fat, about 4 mm thick. This pattern not only aids in even cooking but also helps prevent the ham from drying out.
4. Add Water for Steam
Pour 1 cup (240 mL) of water into the pan. This helps create steam, which provides extra heat and moisture to the ham. Adjust the amount of water if the pan is shallow.
5. Cover the Ham
Cover the ham with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can wrap it directly in foil or place it in a cooking bag.
6. Cook the Ham
Cook the ham for about 2 hours. The specific time may vary based on the size of the ham. Uncooked or partially-cooked city hams may take around 20 minutes per pound, while fully-cooked ones take 15 minutes or less per pound.
7. Check the Temperature
After 2 hours, check the ham's internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should be around 120°F (49°C) before glazing. If it's not, continue cooking, re-cover, and check again.
8. Apply Glaze (Optional)
Glazes can add a delightful layer of flavor. Apply the glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking time or reapply halfway through for extra flavor.
9. Continue Cooking
Cook the ham without the foil for another 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the ham is fully cooked.
10. Rest and Slice
Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. During this time, the juices continue to distribute evenly throughout the ham, resulting in a more tender, flavorful dish.
Roasting Country Ham
1. Soak the Ham (Uncooked Only)
If your country ham is uncooked, soak it in cold water for up to 72 hours. Change the water every 6 to 8 hours to remove excess salt. This step is crucial for reducing the harshness of the ham's flavor.
2. Scrub Off Mold (Uncooked Only)
Rinse the ham with warm water and scrub away any mold or dirt using a stiff-bristled brush. While mold is safe to consume, it may impact the flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps maintain the ideal texture.
4. Prepare the Pan
Place the ham on a roasting pan with high sides. Score the fat in a diamond pattern, ensuring not to cut into the meat.
5. Add Water for Steam
Pour 5 cups (1183 mL) of water into the pan. Use less water if the pan is shallow, but always check and replace as needed.
6. Cover the Ham
Cover the ham with foil to prevent drying out, or use a cooking bag if preferred.
7. Cook the Ham
Roast the ham for 4 hours, checking periodically with a meat thermometer for an internal temperature of 155-160°F (68-71°C).
8. Apply Glaze (Optional)
Spread a glaze over the fat side of the ham, allowing it to cook for more flavor.
9. Continue Cooking
Roast the ham uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, for a total of 4-5 hours of cooking time.
10. Rest and Carve
Let the ham rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the ham more succulent and delicious.
Conclusion
Roasting ham is both an art and a science. Whether you're making city or country ham, the key to a successful result lies in careful preparation, precise temperature control, and allowing enough time for even cooking. With these methods and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a perfectly roasted ham that will impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.