Are you looking to switch up your holiday ham game this year? Why not try deep frying it?
Yes, you read that right – deep frying a ham is a thing, and it’s delicious. But how long do you fry it for? And what are the steps to ensure a perfectly crispy and juicy result?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of deep frying a cooked ham, including tips on preparation, cooking time, and serving.
Get ready to impress your guests with this unique and tasty twist on a classic dish.
How Long Do You Deep Fry A Cooked Ham?
When it comes to deep frying a cooked ham, the general rule of thumb is to fry it for about 7 minutes per pound. However, it’s important to note that the exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your ham.
To ensure that your ham is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The core temperature of the ham should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit before it’s safe to eat.
It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your deep fryer, as different models may have different cooking times and temperature settings.
Preparing Your Cooked Ham For Deep Frying
Before deep frying your cooked ham, it’s important to properly prepare it for the cooking process. The first step is to thaw the ham completely and pat it dry with a lint-free towel. Moisture on the surface of the ham can cause oil popping and splattering, which can be dangerous.
If you plan on using a marinade, inject it into several spots throughout the ham using an injector. This will help disperse the flavor throughout the meat. Once the marinade has been injected, place the ham in a steamer basket that comes with most turkey deep fryers.
When lowering the ham into the hot oil, be sure to do so carefully and slowly. There is a lot of water in the ham, which can cause intense bubbling and splattering of the oil. It’s also important to monitor the temperature of the oil and adjust your cooking time accordingly if it cools down.
For larger hams, it’s recommended to use less oil in the deep fryer to prevent overflow when lowering the ham into the oil. The cooking time for a cooked ham will depend on its weight and size, but generally speaking, it should be fried for around 7 minutes per pound.
Once the ham has been fried, remove it from the oil and allow excess oil to drain off. Let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Choosing The Right Oil For Deep Frying Ham
When it comes to deep frying a ham, choosing the right oil is crucial. Vegetable oil is a popular choice for deep frying due to its high smoke point, which means it can withstand high temperatures without burning. It also has a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the taste of the ham.
However, if you’re looking for a healthier option, you may want to consider oils with higher levels of polyunsaturated fats and lower levels of saturated fats. Sunflower and safflower oil are both high in polyunsaturated fats and have smoke points in the range of 450 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit for their refined versions. Canola oil is another good option, as it has the lowest level of saturated fat among all cooking oils and a smoke point of 425 to 475 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s important to note that oils like olive oil and flaxseed oil are not suitable for deep frying due to their low smoke points and strong flavors. Avocado oil and grapeseed oil are also good options for deep frying, as they have high smoke points and mild flavors.
Ultimately, the choice of oil will depend on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Be sure to choose an oil with a high smoke point and low levels of saturated fat for best results when deep frying ham.
How Long To Deep Fry A Cooked Ham
If you’re wondering how long to deep fry a cooked ham, the answer is typically around 7 minutes per pound. However, this can vary depending on the size and thickness of your ham, so it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Before deep frying your ham, make sure to inject it with marinade to disperse flavor and pat it dry with a lint-free towel to remove excess moisture. Then, using a long chef’s knife, make a slit through the center of the ham and insert a poultry rack into the slit.
Lower the rack into the deep fryer, which should be filled three-quarters of the way with oil heated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the ham for the appropriate amount of time based on its weight, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer until it reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once cooked, remove the ham from the fryer and allow excess oil to drain off before carving and serving. Keep in mind that different deep fryer models may have different cooking times and temperature settings, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Tips For Achieving A Perfectly Crispy And Juicy Ham
Achieving a perfectly crispy and juicy ham when deep frying requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
1. Choose the right type of ham: When deep frying a ham, it’s important to choose the right type of ham. A fully cooked bone-in ham is ideal for deep frying as it retains moisture and flavor. Avoid boneless or spiral hams as they tend to dry out quickly.
2. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your ham is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The core temperature of the ham should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit before it’s safe to eat.
3. Preheat your deep fryer: Preheat your deep fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the ham. This will ensure that the ham is cooked evenly and quickly.
4. Baste with liquid: Basting your ham with liquid while deep frying will help keep it moist and juicy. You can use a mixture of your favorite spices, oil, and water or broth.
5. Monitor the cooking time: Keep an eye on the cooking time as different sizes and thicknesses of ham may require different cooking times. The general rule of thumb is to fry it for about 7 minutes per pound, but make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
By following these tips, you can achieve a perfectly crispy and juicy deep fried ham that will be a hit at any gathering or holiday meal.
Serving Your Deep Fried Ham: Ideas And Suggestions
Once your deep fried ham is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up with some delicious sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas and suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable:
1. Fried Apples: The sweetness of the fried apples perfectly complements the saltiness of the ham. Slice up some apples and fry them in butter until they’re golden brown.
2. Buttermilk Biscuits: Freshly baked buttermilk biscuits are a classic pairing with ham. Serve them warm with a dollop of butter and honey.
3. Homemade Grits: Grits are a staple in Southern cuisine and pair perfectly with deep fried ham. Cook your grits with milk, butter, and a pinch of salt for a creamy and delicious side dish.
4. Red Eye Gravy: This gravy is made by deglazing the pan with coffee after cooking the ham. It has a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the saltiness of the ham.
5. Pineapple Glaze: If you want to add some extra sweetness to your ham, try glazing it with a pineapple-based glaze. The sweetness of the pineapple will balance out the saltiness of the ham.
6. Ham and Cheese Cutlet: If you want to switch things up, try serving your deep fried ham as a cutlet with melted cheese on top. It’s a delicious twist on a classic ham and cheese sandwich.
7. Korean Fried Chicken: If you’re in the mood for something spicy, try making Korean fried chicken as a side dish. The crispy chicken skin and sweet and spicy sauce will complement the deep fried ham perfectly.
With these ideas and suggestions, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and combinations!
