Are you tired of the same old ham recipes? Do you want to try something new and exciting?
Look no further than cooking a spiral ham in a Dutch oven! This versatile cooking tool can be used to create a delicious and moist ham that will have your taste buds singing.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of cooking a spiral ham in a Dutch oven, including tips on choosing the right size and type of ham, how to make a mouth-watering glaze, and more.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Can You Cook A Spiral Ham In A Dutch Oven?
Yes, you absolutely can cook a spiral ham in a Dutch oven! In fact, it’s a great way to cook a ham because the Dutch oven helps to keep the ham moist and tender.
When choosing a Dutch oven for cooking your spiral ham, make sure to consider the size of your ham. For a nine-pound spiral ham, you’ll need at least a 5-quart Dutch oven or a 12-inch deep skillet.
It’s important to note that you should not use a cast iron roasting pan for cooking your spiral ham. Instead, opt for a Dutch oven or deep skillet that is made of materials like stainless steel or enamel-coated cast iron.
Choosing The Right Size And Type Of Spiral Ham
When it comes to choosing the right size and type of spiral ham for your Dutch oven, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the number of people you’ll be serving. As a rule of thumb, plan on about 1/2 pound of bone-in ham per guest. This should allow for generous portions and some tasty leftovers.
Next, decide on whether you want a bone-in or boneless ham. Bone-in hams tend to have a stronger flavor and more natural texture, while boneless hams are easier to carve and require less cooking time. If you opt for a bone-in ham, look for whole hams that generally range from 10 to 18 pounds or half hams from 5 to 10 pounds. Spiral sliced hams are also an option and typically range from 7 to 10 pounds.
When it comes to choosing the type of ham, there are three categories: city (wet-cured), country (dry-cured), and fresh (uncured). City ham is the most common and usually comes fully cooked. Serve it cold or warmed to 140°. If a city ham is uncooked, bake it to 145°, then let it rest for 3 minutes.
Cost is also a factor to consider when choosing a spiral ham. Bargain hams often have extra water injected during the curing process, so it’s important to look for meat labeled “ham” or “ham with natural juices.” Be wary of “ham, water added” or “ham and water product” as you’ll be paying for water weight and the meat may be bland and spongy.
Preparing The Dutch Oven For Cooking
Before you start cooking your spiral ham in the Dutch oven, it’s important to properly prepare the pot. While many new Dutch ovens are factory-seasoned, it’s still a good idea to season it yourself to ensure that your ham doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
To do this, start by removing any wax coating that may be on the Dutch oven. Place an aluminum foil-covered baking sheet on the bottom rack of your oven, and place the Dutch oven upside down on the top rack. Bake at 400°F for an hour to melt off any wax.
Next, it’s time to season the Dutch oven. Using a paper towel or cloth, rub a thin layer of lard or oil all over the inside of the pot, including the lid. Make sure to use a type of oil that has a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
If the surface of the Dutch oven absorbs the oil quickly, add more until it no longer looks dry. Keep rubbing in oil until the surface has changed color and has a rich shine to it.
Once you’ve seasoned your Dutch oven, you’re ready to start cooking your spiral ham. Remember to follow the recommended cooking time and temperature for your ham, and adjust accordingly based on the size of your Dutch oven.
Making A Delicious Glaze For Your Spiral Ham
A baked ham is already delicious on its own, but adding a glaze can take it to the next level. A glaze not only adds flavor but also gives the ham a beautiful caramelized finish. When making a glaze for your spiral ham, it’s important to strike a balance between sweet and tangy flavors. The ham itself is already savory and salty, so the glaze should complement those flavors.
One popular option for a ham glaze is a brown sugar glaze. To make this glaze, you’ll need brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and some other spices of your choice. Whisk all the ingredients together in a saucepan until smooth and heat over medium-low heat until simmering. Simmer for 2 minutes and remove from heat.
It’s important to note that the glaze will thicken upon standing. To remedy this, simply reheat it on your stove for 30 seconds or so when it’s time to brush your ham for the second and third time.
When making your spiral ham in a Dutch oven, you can apply the glaze in two stages. Start by coating the ham with half of the glaze mixture before covering the Dutch oven with a lid or foil. Bake the ham in the Dutch oven until it’s heated through. Then, pour or brush the remaining glaze over the top of the ham and return it to the oven, uncovered. Turn up the oven temperature and bake for a few more minutes until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
Remember to use heavy-duty foil to wrap your spiral ham before placing it in the Dutch oven to ensure that it stays moist and tender. With this delicious brown sugar glaze recipe and careful cooking techniques, your spiral ham will come out perfectly cooked and full of flavor every time!
Cooking The Spiral Ham In The Dutch Oven
Cooking a spiral ham in a Dutch oven is a simple and easy process that yields delicious results. Here’s how to do it:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Remove the spiral ham from its packaging and place it in the Dutch oven.
3. If desired, you can sprinkle some spices like cloves or sage on top of the ham for added flavor.
4. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
5. Bake the ham for approximately 10-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. While the ham is baking, you can prepare a glaze by mixing together honey, mustard, and other desired ingredients.
7. About 20 minutes before the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and brush the glaze over the entire surface of the ham.
8. Return the ham to the oven and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the glaze has caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
9. Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking a spiral ham in a Dutch oven is a great way to keep it moist and flavorful. The enclosed environment of the Dutch oven allows the ham to cook in its own juices, resulting in a tender and juicy final product. Plus, using a Dutch oven means less mess and easy clean-up!
Checking For Doneness And Letting The Ham Rest
Once your spiral ham is in the Dutch oven and cooking, it’s important to check for doneness to ensure that it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F before it’s considered done.
To check the internal temperature of the ham, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham. Be sure to avoid hitting any bones, as this can give you an inaccurate reading. Once the thermometer reads 140°F, your ham is ready to be taken out of the oven.
After removing your spiral ham from the Dutch oven, it’s important to let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making for a more flavorful and tender ham.
While the ham is resting, you can use this time to make a glaze or sauce to serve with your ham. Simply pour the liquid from the Dutch oven into a small pot and heat it up over medium heat. In a separate bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Once the liquid in the pot is bubbling consistently, slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture while stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the glaze thickens, then remove from heat.
Once your ham has rested for 15 minutes, carve it into slices and serve with your homemade glaze and any other side dishes you desire. Enjoy!
Serving And Enjoying Your Delicious Spiral Ham
Once your spiral ham is cooked to perfection in your Dutch oven, it’s time to serve and enjoy it with your family and friends. Here are some tips to make sure your ham is juicy and delicious:
1. Let it rest: Once you take the ham out of the oven, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to settle and make the meat more tender.
2. Carve properly: Use a sharp knife to carve your spiral ham against the grain, starting from the bottom of the bone and working your way up. This will ensure that each slice is tender and juicy.
3. Serve with sides: Spiral ham is a great main dish for any holiday or gathering, and it pairs well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables.
4. Save the leftovers: If you have any leftover ham, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can use it in sandwiches, salads, or soups for a delicious meal.
By following these simple tips, you can serve and enjoy a delicious spiral ham cooked in your Dutch oven. Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a casual dinner party, your guests are sure to love this flavorful and juicy dish.
