Ham is one of those meats that are traditionally reserved for holiday
gatherings. Why? Maybe because so few people know how to cook the best
ham dish. If you would like to enjoy this delicious meat anytime of the
year (or week), be sure to follow these simple cooking instructions for a
fast and easy dinner that everyone will enjoy:
- Buy only ham that is a bright grayish pink in color and has a firm texture
- To prepare your ham for cooking, begin by trimming any excess fat from the rind - note: some cooks begin cooking their ham first to allow the fat juices to blend into the ham before trimming the fat away; this option is up to you, although it does make for a tastier dish.
- Score your ham by making diagonal cuts along the top and sides (be carful not to pierce the meat). This will help your marinade glaze soak through during the cooking process.
- If using cloves, add them now.
- Bake your ham in a 325 degree oven for about 15 minutes per pound (for precooked hams; longer for uncooked ones), or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 160 degrees. Be sure to place it in the baking pan fat side up
- Always use a baking pan to allow the drippings to gather at the bottom of the pan for easier basting.
- Turn ham about halfway through the cooking process
- About 45 minutes before you expect your ham to be finished, remove from the oven and glaze.
- Once your ham has reached the proper temperature, remove from oven.
- Let stand for 15 minutes before carving to allow its internal juices to settle. Otherwise it could bleed much of its juicy flavor upon cutting.
