Spiral ham is a delectable and convenient centerpiece for any holiday or special occasion meal. Known for its juicy, tender meat and beautiful presentation, spiral ham is a favorite among both home cooks and professional chefs. If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering dish, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to cook a spiral ham and share some delicious recipes to elevate your next feast.
Choosing the Perfect Spiral Ham
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to select a high-quality spiral ham. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect one:
Size: Consider the number of guests you’ll be serving. A bone-in spiral ham typically yields about two to three servings per pound, so plan accordingly.
Type: You can choose between a bone-in or boneless spiral ham. Bone-in hams tend to have more flavor and are easier to carve, while boneless hams are convenient for slicing.
Glaze: Some spiral hams come with pre-packaged glazes, while others do not. Decide if you want to use the included glaze or make your own.
Cooking Methods
There are several methods to cook a spiral ham, but the most popular ones are baking and grilling. Below, we’ll outline both techniques:
Baking Method:
Ingredients:
- Spiral ham
- Glaze (homemade or included with the ham)
- Foil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the spiral ham in a roasting pan and cover it with foil.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes per pound, or follow the package instructions.
- During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and apply the glaze.
- Continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Grilling Method:
Ingredients:
- Spiral ham
- Charcoal or gas grill
- Aluminum foil
- Glaze
Instructions:
- Prepare your grill for indirect cooking by lighting only one side and leaving the other side unlit.
- Place a drip pan on the unlit side and add water to create a moist cooking environment.
- Place the spiral ham on the grill grates over the drip pan.
- Cover the grill and cook at 325°F (163°C) for about 10-12 minutes per pound.
- During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, apply the glaze.
- Continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
- Remove from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Delicious Spiral Ham Recipes
Now that you’ve mastered the cooking techniques, let’s explore some mouthwatering recipes to take your spiral ham to the next level:
Maple Glazed Spiral Ham:
For the glaze, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and a pinch of cloves. Brush this mixture over the ham before baking. The result is a sweet and savory masterpiece.
Pineapple Glazed Spiral Ham:
Use a glaze made from crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and ground cloves. Spread it over the ham and bake. The combination of sweet pineapple and warm spices is a crowd-pleaser.
Honey Mustard Glazed Spiral Ham:
Combine honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a tangy glaze. Apply it generously to the ham before baking for a delightful balance of flavors.
Conclusion
Cooking a spiral ham is a straightforward process that can yield extraordinary results. With a little attention to detail and some creativity in choosing or making your glaze, you can create a mouthwatering centerpiece for your next special occasion meal. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or want to experiment with unique flavors, spiral ham is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more. So, roll up your sleeves, get that ham in the oven or on the grill, and prepare to delight your taste buds and those of your loved ones. Happy cooking!
FAQs
To store leftover spiral ham, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the ham by wrapping it in a layer of foil and then placing it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen ham can last up to two months.
Yes, you can cook a spiral ham in a slow cooker. To do so, place the ham inside the slow cooker with your choice of glaze. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the ham is heated through to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The slow cooker keeps the ham moist and tender.
Spiral hams are typically pre-cooked, so you are essentially reheating them. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 140°F (60°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, look for the meat to be hot to the touch, the fibers to be soft, and the glaze to be caramelized.
Some popular side dishes to serve with spiral ham include scalloped potatoes, green bean almondine, roasted vegetables, sweet potato casserole, dinner rolls, and a fresh salad. The richness of the ham pairs well with both sweet and savory sides.
Yes, you can freeze cooked spiral ham. Slice the ham and wrap it in foil or freezer paper, then place it in a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. Properly stored, frozen cooked ham can last up to 1-2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.