The centerpiece of any memorable holiday feast or special occasion dinner is often a succulent, perfectly cooked ham. Signature Select hams, known for their quality and consistent flavor, offer a fantastic foundation for a truly impressive main course. This guide will walk you through every step of preparing a Signature Select dinner ham, from selecting the right one to serving it with pride.
Choosing the Right Signature Select Ham
Selecting the right ham is the first crucial step. Signature Select offers various types of hams, each with its own distinct characteristics and cooking considerations. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision.
Bone-In vs. Boneless
The first decision to make is whether to opt for a bone-in or boneless ham. Bone-in hams are often preferred for their richer flavor and the potential for making flavorful stock from the bone after the meal. However, they can be more challenging to carve. Boneless hams, on the other hand, are incredibly easy to slice and serve, making them a convenient choice for larger gatherings. Bone-in hams generally take longer to cook.
Smoked vs. Unsmoked
Signature Select offers both smoked and unsmoked hams. Smoked hams have a distinct smoky flavor that many find appealing, while unsmoked hams have a milder, more neutral flavor that allows the glaze to shine. Consider your personal preferences and the other flavors you plan to incorporate into your meal when making your choice. If you prefer a stronger smoky flavor, select the smoked ham.
Fully Cooked vs. Cook-Before-Eating
Pay close attention to whether the ham is fully cooked or cook-before-eating. Most Signature Select hams are fully cooked, meaning they only need to be reheated to a safe internal temperature. Cook-before-eating hams, however, require thorough cooking to reach a safe internal temperature and should be handled with extra care to prevent foodborne illness. Always check the packaging carefully to determine the type of ham you are purchasing.
Size Matters: Estimating How Much Ham to Buy
When determining the size of ham to purchase, a good rule of thumb is to estimate about ⅓ to ½ pound of bone-in ham per person, or ¼ to ⅓ pound of boneless ham per person. Consider whether you want leftovers for sandwiches or other dishes, and adjust your estimate accordingly. It’s always better to have a little extra than not enough.
Preparing Your Signature Select Ham
Once you’ve chosen the perfect ham, proper preparation is key to achieving optimal flavor and texture. This includes thawing the ham safely, scoring the surface, and choosing the right cooking method.
Thawing Safely
If your Signature Select ham is frozen, it’s essential to thaw it safely to prevent bacterial growth. The best way to thaw a ham is in the refrigerator. Allow approximately 4-6 hours per pound of ham. For example, a 10-pound ham will take approximately 40-60 hours to thaw completely in the refrigerator. Never thaw a ham at room temperature. You can also thaw the ham in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. This method is faster but requires more attention.
Scoring the Fat
Scoring the fat on the surface of the ham allows the glaze to penetrate more deeply and creates a visually appealing presentation. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern across the surface of the ham, being careful not to cut into the meat itself. The scoring should be about ¼ to ½ inch deep. This helps to render the fat and create crispy edges.
Choosing Your Cooking Method
There are several ways to cook a Signature Select ham, each with its own advantages. The most common methods include baking, using a slow cooker, and even grilling.
Baking
Baking is a classic and reliable method for cooking a Signature Select ham. It allows for even heating and a moist, flavorful result.
Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker is a convenient option, especially for busy cooks. It requires minimal attention and produces a tender, juicy ham.
Grilling
Grilling a ham can impart a smoky flavor and create a beautiful caramelized crust. However, it requires careful monitoring to prevent burning.
The Perfect Glaze: Enhancing the Flavor
A well-chosen glaze can elevate your Signature Select ham from delicious to extraordinary. Experiment with different flavors to create a glaze that complements your personal preferences and the overall theme of your meal.
Classic Glaze Options
There are countless glaze recipes to choose from, ranging from sweet and fruity to savory and spicy. Some classic options include:
- Honey-Mustard Glaze: A simple yet elegant glaze that combines the sweetness of honey with the tang of Dijon mustard.
- Brown Sugar Glaze: A rich and decadent glaze that creates a beautiful caramelized crust.
- Maple-Bourbon Glaze: A sophisticated glaze that adds a touch of warmth and complexity.
- Pineapple Glaze: A tropical-inspired glaze that brings a bright and refreshing flavor.
Creating Your Own Signature Glaze
Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to create your own signature glaze. Consider incorporating elements like:
- Fruits: Pineapple, cherries, apricots, or peaches.
- Spices: Cinnamon, cloves, ginger, or nutmeg.
- Liquors: Bourbon, rum, or sherry.
- Acids: Vinegar, citrus juice, or mustard.
Applying the Glaze
The timing of glaze application is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. For best results, apply the glaze during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking, basting the ham every 10-15 minutes to build up a thick, flavorful coating. Applying the glaze too early can result in burning.
Cooking Your Signature Select Ham: Step-by-Step
Now that you’ve chosen your ham, prepared it, and selected your glaze, it’s time to get cooking! This section provides detailed instructions for baking your Signature Select ham.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the ham in a roasting pan. If you are using a bone-in ham, place it cut-side down.
- Add about 1 cup of water or broth to the bottom of the pan to prevent the ham from drying out.
- Cover the ham tightly with foil.
- Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes per pound for a fully cooked ham, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). For a cook-before-eating ham, bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- During the last 30-60 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and apply your chosen glaze, basting every 10-15 minutes.
- Once the ham is cooked to the correct internal temperature and the glaze is nicely caramelized, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Slow Cooker Instructions
- Place the ham in the slow cooker. You may need to cut the ham in half to fit.
- Add about 1 cup of water or broth to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham, or 160°F (71°C) for a cook-before-eating ham.
- During the last hour of cooking, remove the ham from the slow cooker and place it in a baking dish. Apply your chosen glaze and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is nicely caramelized.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Grilling Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-low heat.
- Place the ham on the grill away from direct heat.
- Grill for approximately 10-12 minutes per pound for a fully cooked ham, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). For a cook-before-eating ham, grill until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- During the last 30-60 minutes of cooking, apply your chosen glaze, basting every 10-15 minutes.
- Be careful not to burn the glaze.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Carving and Serving Your Signature Select Ham
Proper carving is essential to presenting your Signature Select ham in its best light. Follow these tips for easy and elegant carving.
Carving Techniques
For a bone-in ham, start by cutting around the bone to release the meat. Then, slice the ham perpendicular to the bone, creating thin, even slices. For a boneless ham, simply slice across the grain of the meat to create uniform slices. Always use a sharp carving knife for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Signature Select ham with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Consider offering a variety of sauces and condiments, such as mustard, horseradish, or chutney. A simple fruit platter also complements the richness of the ham.
Leftover Ham Ideas
Don’t let any leftover ham go to waste! Use it to make sandwiches, salads, soups, casseroles, or omelets. You can also dice it up and add it to quiche or pasta dishes. Leftover ham bone can be used to make a flavorful soup stock.
What kind of Signature Select ham should I buy?
Signature Select offers various types of hams, including bone-in, boneless, spiral-sliced, and different flavors like hickory-smoked or brown sugar. The best choice depends on your preference for flavor, ease of carving, and desired presentation. A bone-in ham generally has more flavor but is more difficult to carve. A spiral-sliced ham is very convenient for serving but can dry out more easily during cooking. Consider how many people you’re serving as well; larger hams are suitable for big gatherings, while smaller ones are better for family dinners.
When selecting your ham, check the “sell by” or “use by” date to ensure freshness. Also, look for a ham that is evenly colored and well-trimmed. Note whether it is a “cook before eating” ham, which needs to be cooked to a safe internal temperature, or a “ready-to-eat” ham, which primarily needs to be warmed through. Signature Select packaging should clearly state which type of ham it is.
How long should I cook my Signature Select ham?
Cooking time depends heavily on the type and weight of your Signature Select ham. Ready-to-eat hams only require heating to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), typically taking about 10-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C). Cook-before-eating hams need to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and often require a longer cooking time, around 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C).
Always use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham (without touching bone) to accurately gauge the internal temperature. Cooking times are estimates, and the thermometer is the only reliable way to ensure your ham is safely and properly cooked. Remember that a spiral-sliced ham will cook faster than a solid ham, as heat can penetrate it more easily.
What’s the best way to prevent my Signature Select ham from drying out during cooking?
Preventing dryness is crucial for a delicious ham. One effective method is to cook the ham in a roasting pan with about an inch of water or broth in the bottom. This creates steam, which helps keep the ham moist during cooking. You can also tent the ham with foil for the majority of the cooking time, removing it only during the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and the skin to crisp.
Another technique is to baste the ham with its own juices or a flavorful glaze every 30-45 minutes. This adds moisture and flavor to the surface of the ham. Avoid overcooking the ham, as this is the most common cause of dryness. Once the internal temperature reaches the desired level, remove the ham from the oven immediately.
What are some good glaze recipes for a Signature Select ham?
Many delicious glaze options complement the flavor of a Signature Select ham. A classic honey-mustard glaze is made by combining honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and a touch of vinegar. For a sweeter option, consider a brown sugar-pineapple glaze, using brown sugar, pineapple juice, maraschino cherries, and a hint of cinnamon. These glazes are best applied during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
For a spicier glaze, a maple-bourbon glaze is an excellent choice. Combine maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, a simple apricot glaze, made with apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, and a squeeze of lemon juice, provides a fruity and tangy flavor. Ensure the glaze is heated through before brushing it onto the ham for even distribution and better adherence.
How do I carve a Signature Select bone-in ham?
Carving a bone-in ham requires patience and a sharp carving knife. Begin by placing the ham on a cutting board with the shank (narrow end) facing you. Locate the natural seam where the ham is joined to the bone. Cut along the bone, separating the meat. Then, make slices perpendicular to your initial cut, following the natural grain of the meat.
Once you’ve sliced the meat from one side of the bone, turn the ham and repeat the process on the other side. For larger chunks of meat, you can make deeper cuts along the bone to release them. As you carve, try to maintain consistent slice thickness for even serving. After carving, arrange the slices on a platter for serving.
How should I store leftover Signature Select ham?
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and safety of leftover Signature Select ham. Allow the ham to cool slightly before refrigerating it. Cut the ham into smaller portions, if necessary, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped ham in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
Store the ham in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Properly stored cooked ham can be safely consumed for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the ham. Wrap it tightly in freezer wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen ham can maintain its quality for 1-2 months.
Can I use the ham bone for soup?
Absolutely! The ham bone is a fantastic ingredient for making flavorful soup. After carving the ham, save the bone and any remaining scraps of meat. Place the bone in a large stockpot and cover it with water or chicken broth. Add chopped vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery for extra flavor.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for at least 2 hours, or even longer for a richer flavor. Remove the bone and any large pieces of meat. Shred the meat and add it back to the soup. You can also add other ingredients like beans, potatoes, or pasta to create a hearty and satisfying ham bone soup. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.