How do I cook a fully cooked spiral ham?

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Cook a Spiral Ham

Cooking a spiral ham is an easy process that requires very little preparation. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect spiral ham.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to preheat. If you are using an instant-read thermometer, you should take the temperature of the oven for accuracy.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan. If the ham is pre-glazed, brush the glaze over the surface. Cut two or three shallow slits into the ham to allow the glaze to penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Add Liquids to the Pan

Add about 1/4 cup of water or other liquid to the pan. This will help keep the ham moist while it cooks.

Step 4: Cover the Ham

Place a lid or foil over the roasting pan. This will help keep the heat in and prevent the ham from drying out.

Step 5: Cook the Ham

Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are using an instant-read thermometer, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham.

Step 6: Baste the Ham

Remove the lid or foil from the roasting pan and baste the ham with the pan juices every 20 minutes. This will help keep the ham moist and flavorful.

Step 7: Glaze the Ham

Once the ham has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and brush the glaze over the surface. Return the ham to the oven and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the glaze has caramelized.

Step 8: Let the Ham Rest

Once the ham has finished cooking, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final dish.

Tips and Tricks for Achieving the Perfect Spiral Ham Every Time

Cooking a spiral ham can be intimidating, especially when you’re trying to achieve perfection. But with a few simple tips and tricks, you can cook up a beautiful and delicious spiral ham every time. Here’s what you need to know.

Choose the Right Ham

The first step to achieving the perfect spiral ham is to choose the right ham. Look for a fully cooked, spiral-sliced ham. This should yield the best results. You can also choose a smoked ham if you prefer a more smoky flavor. Be sure to check the expiration date, too.

Prep the Ham

Before you start cooking the ham, it’s important to prep it. First, remove the ham from the package and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, start slicing the ham into thin slices. Make sure to keep the slices even so they cook evenly. Make sure to remove any fat or gristle as well.

Baste the Ham

Once the ham is prepped, it’s time to start basting. Basting the ham helps to keep it moist and flavorful during the cooking process. Make a mixture of butter, honey, and brown sugar and brush it over the ham. This will give the ham a delicious, sweet glaze. You can also add your favorite spices and herbs to the basting mixture for extra flavor.

Cook the Ham

Once the ham is prepped and basted, it’s time to cook it. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it with foil. Roast the ham for about 20 minutes per pound. After the allotted time, remove the foil and brush the ham with more basting mixture. Return the ham to the oven and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Then, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

Once the ham is finished cooking, it’s time to enjoy! Serve the ham with your favorite sides and condiments. You can also use the leftovers to make delicious sandwiches and salads. With these tips and tricks, you can create the perfect spiral ham every time.