Are you looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday feast?
Look no further than a Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham.
This premium ham is slow-cooked and smoked for up to 24 hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat that is sure to impress your guests.
But how do you cook it to perfection?
In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks on how to cook a Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham that is juicy, flavorful, and sure to be the star of your holiday table.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook A Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham?
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to note that Dearborn Spiral Sliced Hams come with the glaze on and are ready to heat and eat. This means that you don’t need to worry about adding any additional seasoning or flavoring to the ham.
To start, preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a covered pan. If you don’t have a covered pan, you can use a roasting pan with a rack or a half sheet pan.
Bake the ham for 14 minutes per pound, uncovered. For example, if your ham weighs 8 pounds, you’ll want to bake it for approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, remove the ham from the oven and let it sit for 20 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
Preparing The Ham For Cooking
Before cooking your Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham, there are a few important steps you should take to ensure the best results.
First, make sure to remove the ham from its packaging and any outer coverings. This will allow the heat to penetrate the meat more evenly and thoroughly.
Next, if your ham has a small plastic disk on the underside of the bone, remove and discard it. This disk is often used to hold the ham together during packaging and shipping, but it is not necessary for cooking or serving.
If you want to add additional flavor to your ham, you can apply a glaze during the last 20 minutes of cooking. You can use a pre-made glaze or make your own by mixing together ingredients like brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices. Apply the glaze with a brush or your hands, making sure to coat the top and sides of the ham and between each slice.
Finally, make sure to preheat your oven to 325°F before putting the ham in. This will ensure that the ham cooks evenly and thoroughly. By following these steps, you can prepare your Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham for cooking and achieve a delicious and flavorful result.
Choosing The Right Cooking Method
When it comes to cooking a Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham, there are several cooking methods to choose from. The most traditional and popular method is to bake the ham in the oven. However, you can also heat the ham in a slow cooker or even on the grill.
If you choose to bake your ham in the oven, preheat your oven to 325°F and place the ham in a covered pan. Bake for 14 minutes per pound, uncovered. This method will result in a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior.
If you prefer to use a slow cooker, set it on low and place the ham in it about 5 hours before dinner. This method is perfect for families who prefer a more casual dinner of shredded hot ham and roll sandwiches.
For those who love the smoky flavor, grilling the ham is also an option. Slow-cook and smoke the ham for up to 24 hours before serving at room temperature.
No matter which cooking method you choose, remember to remove your ham from the refrigerator about one hour before cooking. If your ham is frozen, it’s best to allow it to slowly thaw in the refrigerator. However, if you’re in a rush, you can speed up the defrosting process by submerging your sealed ham in cold water.
Choosing the right cooking method ultimately depends on your personal preference and time constraints. Whichever method you choose, make sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully and allow ample time for the ham to rest before carving.
Adding Flavor With Glazes And Seasonings
While Dearborn Spiral Sliced Hams come with a delicious glaze already on them, you can always add your own personal touch by experimenting with different glazes and seasonings. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Honey Mustard Glaze: Combine equal parts honey and Dijon mustard, and brush the mixture over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This glaze adds a tangy and sweet flavor to the ham.
2. Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix together brown sugar, honey, and a pinch of ground cloves. Brush the glaze onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This glaze creates a sweet and caramelized coating on the ham.
3. Pineapple Glaze: Combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until thickened. Brush the glaze onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This glaze adds a tropical twist to your ham.
4. Seasonings: If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your ham without a glaze, try rubbing it with a mixture of herbs and spices before baking. Some good options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
Remember to baste your ham with any juices that accumulate in the pan while it cooks to keep it moist and flavorful. With these simple additions, you can take your Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham to the next level and impress your guests with your culinary skills!
Cooking And Serving The Perfect Spiral Sliced Ham
If you’re looking to elevate your Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham to the next level, follow these steps for cooking and serving the perfect ham.
First, remove the ham from its packaging and discard any small plastic disks on the underside of the bone. Place the ham in a shallow roasting pan, cut side down. Cover the ham with foil to prevent it from drying out during the cooking process.
Bake the covered ham for 12-15 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. If you want to add a glaze to your ham, wait until the last 20 minutes of cooking to apply it. Brush the glaze on the ham and leave it uncovered to finish cooking. This will allow the edges of the ham to caramelize and create a delicious crust.
Once your ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to settle and make it easier to carve. Spoon any juices that have accumulated in the pan over the ham before serving for added flavor.
When carving your spiral sliced ham, turn it on its bottom and cut around the bone. The slices of ham will fall away easily. Serve with your favorite holiday sides and enjoy!
If you have any leftovers, they can be used in a variety of delicious dishes like croque madame or scalloped potatoes. And don’t forget to save the bone for flavoring broths or soups.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a perfectly cooked and delicious Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham that’s sure to impress your guests.
Leftover Ham Ideas And Storage Tips
If you have leftover cooked ham, there are several ways to store it properly to ensure its freshness and taste. Here are some tips for storing and using leftover ham:
1. Fridge Storage: If you plan to use the leftover ham within a few days, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Cooked ham can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long it’s been stored.
2. Freezer Storage: If you don’t plan on using the leftover ham within a few days, it’s best to freeze it. Dice the ham into 1 cup portions and package it in airtight freezer bags or containers. This will make it easy to use in recipes later on. Leftover ham can be frozen for up to 2 months.
3. Reheating: When reheating leftover ham, it’s important not to overcook it as this can result in dry and tough meat. To keep the ham moist, reheat it in a pan covered with foil at a low temperature of 275°F for 10 minutes per pound.
4. Ham Bone: Don’t throw away the ham bone! It can be used to make delicious soups and broths. Store the ham bone in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze it for later use.
5. Recipe Ideas: Leftover ham can be used in a variety of recipes, from breakfast dishes to soups and salads. Some ideas include adding diced ham to omelets or breakfast hashes, using it as a topping for pizzas or baked potatoes, or adding it to soups like Corn Chowder or Navy Bean Soup.
By following these tips for storing and using leftover ham, you can ensure that your Dearborn Spiral Sliced Ham is enjoyed not only for one meal but for several delicious dishes afterwards.
