Are you looking for a unique and delicious way to prepare your fully cooked ham?
Have you ever considered deep frying it?
Yes, you read that right – deep frying a ham is a thing!
Not only does it lock in moisture and reduce the risk of overcooking, but it also creates a crispy outer layer that is sure to impress your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll explore the process of deep frying a fully cooked ham and provide you with some helpful tips to ensure your ham turns out perfectly.
So, grab your outdoor turkey fryer and let’s get started!
Can You Deep Fry A Fully Cooked Ham?
The answer is yes, you can deep fry a fully cooked ham. Deep frying a ham is a great way to add some extra flavor and texture to your meal. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a way to cook your ham that doesn’t involve using your oven.
To deep fry a fully cooked ham, you’ll need an outdoor turkey fryer. This will allow you to safely deep fry the ham without any risk of fire or injury. You’ll also need some peanut oil, which is the best oil to use for deep frying.
Before you start frying your ham, you’ll need to prepare it. First, you’ll want to marinate the ham in a brine made up of water, cider, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cloves. This will help to lock in moisture and add some extra flavor to the ham.
Once the ham has been marinated overnight, it’s time to fry it. Heat the peanut oil in your turkey fryer to 375°F. Carefully lower the ham into the hot oil and fry it for 7 1/2 minutes per pound. Be sure to use caution when lowering the ham into the oil, as it will bubble up intensely due to the moisture in the ham.
Once the ham is fully fried, remove it from the oil and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This will allow any excess oil to drain off and ensure that the ham is safe to handle.
The Benefits Of Deep Frying A Fully Cooked Ham
There are several benefits to deep frying a fully cooked ham. One of the biggest benefits is that it locks in moisture and reduces the risk of overcooking, which can be a common problem when using a standard oven. This makes the ham juicier and more flavorful.
Deep frying a fully cooked ham also adds a crispy texture to the outside of the ham, which can be a nice contrast to the tender meat inside. The high temperature of the oil causes the surface of the ham to caramelize, creating a delicious crust.
Another benefit of deep frying a fully cooked ham is that it’s a great option for outdoor cooking. If you’re having a backyard barbecue or picnic, deep frying a ham can be a fun and unique way to serve your guests.
How To Prepare Your Fully Cooked Ham For Deep Frying
Before deep frying your fully cooked ham, you’ll need to prepare it properly to ensure that it turns out delicious and safe to eat. Here are the steps you should follow:
1. Marinate the ham: In a large plastic tub or bag, mix together water, cider, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and your fully cooked ham. Stir until the ingredients are dissolved and the ham is completely coated in the brine. Cover the container or seal the bag and refrigerate overnight.
2. Dry the ham: The next day, remove the ham from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure to remove any excess moisture from the surface of the ham.
3. Heat the oil: Fill your turkey fryer with peanut oil and heat it to 375°F. It’s important to use enough oil to fully submerge the ham, but not so much that it overflows when you add the ham.
4. Fry the ham: Carefully lower the ham into the hot oil using a long-handled utensil or basket. Be sure to do this slowly and gently to avoid splashing hot oil. Fry the ham for 7 1/2 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F.
5. Drain and cool: Once the ham is fully fried, carefully remove it from the oil using a long-handled utensil or basket. Allow any excess oil to drain off for 10-15 minutes before serving.
By following these steps, you can prepare your fully cooked ham for deep frying and create a delicious and unique dish that will impress your family and friends.
Steps To Deep Fry Your Fully Cooked Ham
If you want to deep fry your fully cooked ham, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure that it turns out perfectly. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Prepare the brine: In a large plastic container or bag, mix together water, cider, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and any other seasonings you like. Place the ham in the brine and refrigerate overnight. This will help to infuse the ham with flavor and keep it moist during frying.
2. Dry the ham: Before frying, remove the ham from the brine and dry it thoroughly with paper towels. This will help to ensure that the oil doesn’t splatter when you fry the ham.
3. Heat the oil: Fill your turkey fryer with peanut oil and heat it to 375°F. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your fryer.
4. Fry the ham: Carefully lower the ham into the hot oil and fry it for 7 1/2 minutes per pound. Use caution when lowering the ham into the oil, as it will bubble up intensely due to the moisture in the ham.
5. Check the temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the ham has reached at least 160°F. This will ensure that it’s safe to eat.
6. Let it cool: Once the ham is fully fried, remove it from the oil and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This will allow any excess oil to drain off and ensure that the ham is safe to handle.
7. Glaze (optional): If you want to add some extra flavor, you can make a glaze by combining ingredients like brown sugar, honey, mustard, and vinegar in a saucepan over low heat. Let it reduce until syrupy consistency, then pour it over the top of the ham before serving.
By following these steps, you can deep fry your fully cooked ham and enjoy a delicious and unique meal that’s sure to impress your guests.
Tips For Perfectly Deep Fried Ham
If you want to ensure that your deep fried ham turns out perfectly, there are a few tips you should keep in mind:
1. Dry the ham thoroughly before frying: This will help to prevent the oil from splattering and ensure that the ham gets crispy on the outside.
2. Use a poultry rack: Inserting a poultry rack into the center of the ham will help it cook more evenly and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the fryer.
3. Inject the ham with marinade: Using an injector to add marinade to the ham will help to distribute flavor throughout the meat.
4. Monitor the temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of the ham as it cooks. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F before it is safe to eat.
5. Let it rest: After frying, let the ham rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure that the meat is tender and juicy.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your deep fried ham turns out perfectly every time.
Serving Suggestions And Variations
When it comes to serving your deep fried ham, there are many options to choose from. You can serve it as the main course for a holiday meal, or slice it up and use it in sandwiches or salads. Here are some serving suggestions and variations to try:
1. Sweet and Tangy Glaze: While the deep fried ham is still hot, brush on a sweet and tangy glaze made from honey, mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This will add some extra flavor and moisture to the ham.
2. Pineapple Rings: For a tropical twist, serve your deep fried ham with pineapple rings on top. This will add some sweetness and acidity to the dish.
3. Mustard Sauce: Whip up a simple mustard sauce made from Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise to serve alongside your deep fried ham. This will add some tanginess and creaminess to the dish.
4. Fried Ham Sandwich: Slice up your deep fried ham and use it in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments. This is a great option for leftovers.
5. Ham and Cheese Omelette: Use your leftover deep fried ham in an omelette with cheese and vegetables for a delicious breakfast or brunch dish.
No matter how you choose to serve your deep fried ham, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different flavors and variations to find your favorite way to enjoy this tasty dish.
