Ham is a staple of many holiday meals, but figuring out how much to buy can be a daunting task.
You don’t want to end up with too little and leave your guests hungry, but you also don’t want to be stuck with a mountain of leftovers. With so many conflicting opinions out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
But fear not! We’ve done the research for you and compiled all the information you need to know about how much ham to get per person. From bone-in to boneless, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the ham-buying process.
How Much Ham To Get Per Person?
The general rule of thumb for bone-in ham is to plan for about 1/2 pound per person, while boneless ham requires about 1/3 pound per person. However, it’s important to keep in mind that appetites can vary, and some guests may eat more or less than expected.
If you’re making a lot of side dishes or have guests who are not big meat-eaters, you can err on the smaller side. On the other hand, if you want leftovers for sandwiches or other dishes, it’s best to buy an extra pound or two.
To make things easier, here are some suggested quantities for both bone-in and boneless ham:
– 4 people: 2-3 pound bone-in ham or 1.5-2 pound boneless ham
– 6 people: 3-4 pound bone-in ham or 2-3 pound boneless ham
– 8 people: 4-5 pound bone-in ham or 2.75-3.5 pound boneless ham
– 10 people: 5-6 pound bone-in ham or 3-4 pound boneless ham
– 12 people: 6-7 pound bone-in ham or 4-5 pound boneless ham
It’s important to note that these quantities are just a starting point and can be adjusted based on your specific needs and preferences.
Understanding The Different Types Of Ham
When it comes to buying ham, it’s important to understand the different types available. The most basic level of ham refers to a specific cut of pork, which comes from the back thigh/rump of a pig. A whole ham typically weighs between 18 to 20 pounds and includes both the “butt” end and the “shank” end.
The “butt end” is the upper part of the ham and is more fatty, while the “shank end” is the lower end and has less fat. The shank end has just one bone, making it easier to slice. Some hams still have a thick layer of fat on the exterior, which is often scored in diamond shapes for an attractive look once the ham is baked and ready to serve.
Another type of ham is a “picnic ham,” which comes from the front shoulders of a hog and is cured in ham fashion. Ham steaks are slices of a cured ham that are sold pre-sliced for easy cooking. A breakfast ham is a ham steak that consists of just the most tender center section.
When it comes to buying boneless ham, there are three ways in which it’s usually sold. Fresh ham refers to an uncured leg of pork that must be cooked before eating. Country ham is cured with a dry rub, hung to dry, aged usually for at least 6 months, and sold uncooked. It’s a specialty of the American south, and it must be cooked before serving. City ham generally refers to ham that is cured by brining, sometimes smoked, and sold fully cooked.
When buying a bone-in ham, aim for between a half pound and three-quarters of a pound per person. For boneless ham, plan for about 1/3 pound per person. These are just estimates, and appetites can vary depending on the guests’ makeup and other factors. It’s always better to have extra than not enough so that everyone can enjoy their holiday meal’s main dish and have leftovers for sandwiches or other dishes.
Factors To Consider When Calculating How Much Ham You Need
When calculating how much ham you need, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the number of guests you will be serving. As a general rule, plan for about 1/2 pound of bone-in ham per person and 1/3 pound of boneless ham per person. However, this can vary depending on the appetites of your guests and whether or not you want leftovers.
Another factor to consider is the size of the ham itself. If you’re buying a bone-in ham, it will be heavier than a boneless ham, so you will need to adjust your quantities accordingly. Additionally, if you’re serving other main dishes or have a lot of side dishes, you may not need as much ham as you would if it were the only main dish.
It’s also important to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences your guests may have. If you have vegetarians or vegans attending your event, you may not need as much ham as you would if everyone were meat-eaters.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to buy a little extra ham just in case. Leftover ham can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches and omelets to soups and casseroles. Plus, it’s always better to have too much than not enough.
By taking these factors into account when calculating how much ham you need, you can ensure that everyone at your event is well-fed and satisfied without wasting food or overspending on unnecessary quantities.
How To Determine The Right Amount Of Ham Per Person
Determining the right amount of ham per person can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to consider a few factors, such as the number of guests, the type of ham, and whether or not you want leftovers.
Firstly, consider the number of guests you will be serving. As mentioned above, a good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1/2 pound of bone-in ham per person or 1/3 pound of boneless ham per person. However, if you have guests who are big meat-eaters or if you want leftovers, it’s best to buy a little extra.
Secondly, consider the type of ham you will be serving. Bone-in hams are heavier than boneless hams, so they require more meat per person. If you’re unsure which type of ham to buy, refer to the suggested quantities listed above.
Lastly, consider whether or not you want leftovers. If you do, it’s best to buy an extra pound or two of ham. This will ensure that you have enough meat for sandwiches, omelettes, quiches, or any other dishes that you may want to make with your leftover ham.
Tips For Buying And Storing Ham
When buying ham, it’s important to consider the type of ham you want, as well as the quantity needed for your guests. Bone-in hams tend to have more flavor and are often larger, while boneless hams are easier to carve and may be a better option for smaller gatherings.
When storing ham, it’s important to keep it refrigerated at 40°F or lower. If you won’t be using the ham within the suggested storage time, it should be frozen to prevent it from perishing. However, freezing can affect the flavor and texture of the ham, so it should be avoided if possible.
Fully cooked hams should be wrapped or sealed with foil to help reduce evaporation as the meat slowly heats through. A small amount of liquid can be added to the pan before sealing to keep the ham moist during cooking.
If you have leftover ham, it should be refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking and tightly wrapped in your refrigerator at 34-38°F. Leftovers should be used up within 3 days or frozen for later use.
When buying ham, always check the label to ensure that it is ready-to-eat or requires cooking. Hams that need to be cooked must be labeled with cooking instructions.
To store ham properly, you can use a purpose-made calico ham bag, pillowcase, or large tea towel. Soak the bag or case in a mixture of water and white vinegar before wrapping the ham completely and storing it in the coolest part of your refrigerator. Rewrap every 2-3 days or when the wrapping dries out.
By following these tips for buying and storing ham, you can ensure that your meal is fresh, flavorful, and safe for all your guests to enjoy.
Creative Ways To Use Leftover Ham
If you find yourself with leftover ham after a big meal or holiday gathering, don’t let it go to waste! There are plenty of creative and delicious ways to use up those leftovers.
1. Ham and Cheese Sliders: Cut leftover ham into small pieces and place them on slider buns with your favorite cheese. Toast in the oven until the cheese is melted and the buns are crispy. These make a great party appetizer or quick lunch.
2. Ham Fried Rice: Use leftover ham in place of chicken in your favorite fried rice recipe. The salty flavor of the ham pairs perfectly with the savory rice and vegetables.
3. Ham and Egg Breakfast Sandwich: Fry up some eggs and place them on a toasted English muffin with sliced ham and cheese. This hearty breakfast sandwich is perfect for a lazy weekend morning.
4. Ham and Potato Soup: Simmer leftover ham with diced potatoes, onions, and carrots in chicken broth for a comforting and filling soup.
5. Ham and Cheese Omelette: Whip up a quick omelette and fill it with diced ham and shredded cheese. This is a great way to use up leftover ham for breakfast or brunch.
These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to using up leftover ham. Get creative and experiment with different recipes to find your new favorite way to enjoy this versatile meat.