Ham is a staple food item in many households, especially during holiday seasons. Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving, a baked ham is always a crowd favorite. Baking a ham may seem like a daunting task, but it is actually quite easy. With a few tips and tricks, you can bake a delicious ham that is juicy and flavorful. In this article, we will go through step-by-step instructions on how to bake a ham, along with some common FAQs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-7 pound) fully cooked ham
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– Clove (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove the ham from the packaging and discard any excess liquid or wrapping.
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan with the fat side up.
3. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Make sure not to cut too deeply, just enough to create indentations.
4. If you like, insert cloves into the scored surface of the ham at the points of the diamond.
5. In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, orange juice, and pineapple juice until everything is combined.
6. Pour the glaze mixture over the ham. Using a brush, spread the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the ham.
7. Place the ham in the oven and bake for about 15 – 18 minutes per pound. If you have a ham that’s 5 pounds, it will take about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours to cook. For a 7-pound ham, it will take about 1 3/4 to 2 hours. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F.
8. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham.
9. Slice the ham and serve with your favorite sides.
FAQs:
1. Do I need to glaze the ham?
A. No, you don’t need to glaze the ham, but it adds flavor and helps keep the ham from becoming too dry.
2. Can I use a spiral ham instead of a whole ham?
A. Yes, you can use a spiral ham. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging as it may require a different cooking time.
3. What can I do if my ham is too salty?
A. If your ham is too salty, you can soak it in water overnight before baking it. This will help remove some of the salt.
4. What can I do if my ham is too dry?
A. If your ham is too dry, you can place it in a roasting pan with a cup of water or broth. Cover the ham with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes until it’s heated through and moist.
5. Can I use a slow cooker to cook the ham?
A. Yes, you can use a slow cooker to cook the ham. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging.
Conclusion:
Baking a ham is a great way to feed a crowd. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious, juicy ham that everyone will enjoy. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and glazes. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to bake the perfect ham every time.
