Are you a fan of smoky and flavorful ham?
Have you ever heard of double smoked ham?
If not, you’re in for a treat!
Double smoked ham is a pre-cooked ham that is smoked twice to infuse it with even more texture and flavor.
It’s perfect for serving at room temperature in a buffet or gently reheating for a hot meal.
In this article, we’ll explore what double smoked ham means, how to smoke it, and some tips for making the perfect glaze.
So, grab your apron and let’s get started!
What Does Double Smoked Ham Mean?
Double smoked ham is a type of pre-cooked ham that has been smoked twice to enhance its flavor and texture. The first smoking process is typically done by the manufacturer, and the second smoking process is done by the cook at home. This process involves placing the ham in a smoker or on a grill and cooking it over low heat for a long time to add flavor.
It’s important to note that not all hams are suitable for double smoking. Only pre-cooked hams that have been cured, smoked, or baked are appropriate for this process. Raw hams should not be double smoked as they require different cooking times and temperatures.
How Is Double Smoked Ham Made?
To make double smoked ham, you will need a pre-cooked ham that has already been cured and smoked. First, preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit according to the manufacturer’s directions. Next, using a boning knife, gently score the outside of the ham in a large crosshatch pattern. This will allow the smoke to penetrate the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Once the smoker is ready, place the prepared ham on the smoker, flat side down on the middle rack. Line a large chafing pan or baking sheet with tin foil and place it on the bottom rack to catch any drippings. Smoke the ham at 225 degrees Fahrenheit until it reaches an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit, which should take about 4 hours. While smoking, spritz the ham every hour or so with pineapple juice to keep it moist.
Once the ham reaches 130 degrees Fahrenheit internal temperature, it’s time to make the glaze. Whisk together jelly or preserves with about 1/4 cup of pineapple juice until it’s thin enough to brush on easily. Generously baste the ham with the glaze and then increase the temperature of the smoker to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Smoke for an additional 30 minutes, then baste again and increase the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a final 30 minutes.
By this point, your double smoked ham should have reached an internal temperature of 145-150 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove it from the smoker and tent with tinfoil, allowing it to rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. The end result will be a deliciously smoky ham with a moist interior and a sweet and savory crust on the outside.
It’s worth noting that while double smoking a ham may sound intimidating, it’s actually quite simple and straightforward. With just a few key ingredients and some patience, you can transform an already delicious pre-cooked ham into something truly special that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.
Benefits Of Double Smoking Ham
Double smoking ham has several benefits that make it a popular choice among home cooks. Firstly, the process of double smoking adds an extra layer of flavor to the ham. The first smoking process done by the manufacturer imparts a smoky flavor to the ham, but the second smoking process done at home intensifies that flavor and adds a unique depth of taste.
Secondly, double smoking helps to lock in moisture and prevent the ham from becoming dry. Pre-cooked spiral-cut hams can often be dry once they reach your table, but double smoking helps to retain moisture and create a juicy and succulent ham that is perfect for serving at any occasion.
Thirdly, double smoked ham is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. It can be served hot or cold, sliced for sandwiches, used in pasta dishes or soups, or even added to breakfast dishes like eggs Benedict or frittatas.
Lastly, double smoked ham is an economical way to feed a family or a large group of people. A single ham can provide enough meat for several meals, and the leftovers can be used in a variety of ways.
How To Smoke Double Smoked Ham
If you’re interested in trying out double smoked ham, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to smoke it:
1. Preheat your smoker according to the manufacturer’s directions to 225°F.
2. Score the outside of the ham in a crosshatch pattern to allow the smoke to penetrate the meat.
3. Place the ham cut side down on the middle rack of your smoker. Put a chafing pan lined with tinfoil on the bottom rack underneath the ham to catch any drippings.
4. Smoke the ham at 225°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F, which should take about 4 hours depending on its size.
5. Spritz the ham with pineapple juice around once an hour while smoking to keep it moist.
6. Once the ham reaches 130°F, whisk 1 cup of jelly with 1/4 cup pineapple juice and generously baste the ham with the glaze.
7. Increase the temperature to 300°F and smoke for 30 minutes.
8. Glaze the ham again and increase the temperature to 350°F and smoke for another 30 minutes. By this point, the ham should be at an internal temperature of 145°F – 150°F. If not, allow it to smoke a while longer.
9. Remove the ham from the smoker, tent it with tin foil, and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Double smoked ham is a great way to add an extra layer of flavor to your holiday meal or any other special occasion. The second smoking process adds just the right amount of smokiness without overpowering the taste of the ham. With this recipe, you’ll end up with a delicious crusty exterior covered with a sweet glaze that will make your guests rave about your cooking skills.
Tips For Making The Perfect Glaze For Double Smoked Ham
One of the key components that make a double smoked ham truly irresistible is the glaze. A sweet and sticky glaze can take your ham from good to great, and leave your guests raving about it for weeks to come. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect glaze for your double smoked ham:
1. Use high-quality ingredients: The glaze is only as good as the ingredients you use. Use the best quality black cherry jam, brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and allspice you can find.
2. Adjust the sweetness level: The sweetness level of the glaze can be adjusted to your liking by adding more or less brown sugar or cherry jam. Taste the glaze as you go along and adjust it to suit your taste.
3. Use a food processor: If you prefer a smooth glaze without any chunks of cherries in it, use a food processor to blend the ingredients together until smooth.
4. Make it in advance: The glaze can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will save you time on the day of your event and allow the flavors to meld together even more.
5. Warm it up before applying: Before applying the glaze to your double smoked ham, warm it up on low heat in a small saucepan. This will make it easier to spread and ensure that it evenly coats the ham.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and unforgettable glaze for your double smoked ham that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).
Serving Double Smoked Ham: Hot Or Cold?
Double smoked ham can be served either hot or cold, depending on your preference. If you choose to serve it hot, it’s important to take the chill off the ham by allowing it to sit at room temperature for about an hour before heating. This will ensure that the ham heats evenly and doesn’t dry out. To heat the ham, place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (162.8°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Be sure to check the label on your ham to see if it is fully cooked or needs cooking.
If you prefer to serve the ham cold, you can simply slice it and serve it as is. Spiral cut hams are safe to eat cold, but if you want to be extra cautious, you can heat it up to 140°F (60°C) before serving. Double smoked ham has a rich smoky flavor and a sweet and savory glaze on the outside, making it a delicious addition to any holiday meal. Whether you serve it hot or cold, double smoked ham is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.