Are you looking for a unique and delicious way to prepare your precooked ham?
Look no further than deep frying!
While it may seem unconventional, deep frying a ham can create a crispy, bacon-like crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and juicy.
But how exactly do you deep fry a precooked ham?
In this article, we’ll explore different methods and tips for achieving the perfect deep fried ham.
Get ready to impress your guests with this mouth-watering dish!
How Do You Deep Fry A Precooked Ham?
First, it’s important to note that the oil should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before lowering the ham into it. Additionally, the internal temperature of the ham should reach at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is fully cooked.
One method for deep frying a precooked ham is to use an outdoor turkey fryer. Heat several gallons of peanut oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and carefully lower the unwrapped ham into the hot oil. As the ham fries, it will create a crust similar to crispy bacon and seal in all the juices inside. Fry for about 7-9 minutes, adjusting the time for more or less crust as desired.
Another method involves brining the ham overnight in a mixture of water, cider, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cloves. The following day, dry the ham well and carefully place it in a turkey fryer filled with peanut oil heated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry for 7 1/2 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once fried, let the ham cool and drain off any excess oil for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Choosing The Right Ham For Deep Frying
When it comes to deep frying a ham, it’s important to choose the right type of ham to ensure the best results. While a fully cooked ham can be used for deep frying, an uncooked ham is recommended for the most flavorful and juicy outcome.
When shopping for an uncooked ham, look for a whole ham that has not been sliced yet. It’s important to note that uncooked hams may be harder to find in stores, so it’s recommended to plan ahead and order one in advance.
In terms of the type of ham, a bone-in ham is recommended for deep frying as the bone helps to retain moisture and flavor during the cooking process. Spiral cut hams can also be used, but may require extra care when lowering into the hot oil.
When it comes to size, choose a ham that will fit comfortably in your fryer kit and allow enough space for the oil to circulate around it. It’s recommended to use a ham that weighs between 10-15 pounds for best results.
Preparing The Ham For Deep Frying
Before deep frying a precooked ham, it’s important to properly prepare it to ensure the best possible outcome. One method involves injecting the ham with a flavorful marinade to disperse flavor throughout the meat. In a mixing bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider. Whisk the mixture until completely dissolved and fill an injector with the marinade. Inject the ham in multiple spots to ensure even distribution of flavor, using as much of the marinade as possible.
After injecting the ham, pat it with a lint-free towel to remove any excess moisture. Using a long chef’s knife, make a slit that goes all the way through the center of the ham and insert a poultry rack into the slit. This will help keep the ham stable while it’s frying and prevent it from rolling around in the oil.
If using a brine method, mix all of the brine ingredients until dissolved in a large plastic container or bag. Place the ham in the brine and refrigerate overnight. Before frying, take out the ham and dry it well to ensure that it fries evenly.
Regardless of which method is used, it’s important to carefully lower the ham into preheated oil to avoid any splatters or burns. Once fried, let the ham cool and drain off any excess oil for about 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
The Best Oil For Deep Frying A Ham
When it comes to deep frying a precooked ham, the type of oil you use can make all the difference. Peanut oil is a popular choice for deep frying due to its high smoke point of around 450 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it ideal for cooking at high temperatures.
Peanut oil is also great for deep frying because it creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside of the ham juicy and tender. Additionally, if you’re making a deep-fried dish that calls for vegetable oil and you’re running low, peanut oil can be a great substitute.
It’s important to note that when using peanut oil for deep frying, you should always preheat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the ham. This will ensure that the ham cooks evenly and doesn’t absorb too much oil.
Deep Frying Techniques For A Crispy Exterior
To achieve a crispy exterior when deep frying a precooked ham, there are a few techniques that can be used. One method is to coat the ham in a batter before frying. This will create a crispy layer on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender. To make the batter, mix together flour, salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings. Add enough water or beer to create a thin batter that will stick to the ham.
Another technique is to use a coating of breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Dip the ham in beaten egg or milk, then coat it in the breadcrumbs or cornflakes. The coating will create a crispy texture on the outside of the ham while keeping the inside moist.
It’s important to make sure that the ham is completely dry before adding it to the hot oil to avoid any splattering. Also, be sure to use an oil with a high smoke point such as peanut oil or canola oil.
To ensure that the ham cooks evenly and has a consistent flavor, cut it into uniform pieces before frying. This will also help prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much when adding the ham to the pot.
Finally, be patient and wait for the oil to reach the correct temperature before adding the ham. If the oil is too hot, it will brown too quickly on the outside before cooking through on the inside. If it’s not hot enough, it will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Aim for an oil temperature of around 375 degrees Fahrenheit for best results.
Safety Tips For Deep Frying A Ham
Working with hot oil can be dangerous, so it’s important to follow some safety tips when deep frying a precooked ham. Here are some top tips to help you fry safely and avoid accidents in the kitchen:
1. Use oil with a high smoke point: When deep frying a ham, it’s important to use an oil that can withstand high temperatures without smoking or burning. Saturated and monounsaturated oils are the most stable for frying, while oils that are rich in polyphenols or antioxidants, such as olive oil and rapeseed oil, are also easier to work with.
2. Use a large, wide, sturdy pan: Never fill the pan more than two-thirds full with oil as it may bubble up when food is added and spill over. Make sure you have a well-fitting lid close at hand in case the oil catches fire. If your pan doesn’t have a lid that fits, a large, flat baking sheet can do the job.
3. Check the temperature of your oil: If you have a food thermometer, heat the oil to 160C for low, 180C for moderate, and 190C for high. Avoid heating the oil any higher than this as it may catch fire. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil with a cube of bread. It should brown in 30-40 seconds when the oil is at moderate heat.
4. Never put wet food in the fryer: Excess liquid will cause the oil to splutter and can cause injuries. Particularly wet foods should be patted dry with kitchen paper before frying.
5. Never leave a pan of hot oil unattended: It can take just a minute or two for the oil to overheat and catch fire.
6. Turn pan handles away from the front of the cooker: This will help avoid knocking the pan off the hob.
7. Keep the kitchen a child-free zone while deep-frying: Little hands can cause catastrophes when dealing with hot oil.
8. Remove food with a large slotted spoon or sturdy tongs: This allows the oil to drain as you lift the food out.
9. Dispose of the oil safely: Leave it to cool completely, pour it into a jug, then back into its original bottle. Never pour the oil down the sink unless you want blocked pipes!
By following these simple rules, you can deep-fry your precooked ham safely and confidently. Always remember to exercise caution and respect when working with hot oil to avoid accidents in your kitchen.
Serving Suggestions For Your Deep Fried Ham
Now that you’ve successfully deep fried your precooked ham, it’s time to think about how to serve it. There are many delicious and creative ways to enjoy your crispy and juicy ham.
One simple option is to slice the ham and serve it with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing. You can also serve it on a platter with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
For a more indulgent option, consider making a ham and cheese sandwich with your deep fried ham. Simply layer sliced ham and cheese on a toasted bun or bread, and add any additional toppings you desire, such as lettuce, tomato, or bacon.
Another fun way to enjoy your deep fried ham is to use it as a topping for pizza. Simply chop the ham into small pieces and add it to your favorite pizza crust along with tomato sauce, cheese, and any other toppings you desire.
Lastly, consider using your deep fried ham in a breakfast dish. Fry up some eggs and serve them alongside sliced ham for a hearty breakfast. Or, chop the ham into small pieces and add it to a breakfast burrito or omelette.
No matter how you choose to serve your deep fried ham, the possibilities are endless. Get creative and enjoy the delicious flavors of this unique dish!
