Monday, April 27, 2009

Prepare Spiral Sliced Ham

Prepare Spiral Sliced Ham


Spiral sliced hams make baking and serving a deliciously succulent ham easy as there is no need for the fuss of carving the perfect slice of ham for your guests. Cut in a spiral to form uniform slices the spiral cut ham is ready to serve right from the oven. With a little prep time and a little basting this ham practically bakes itself and comes out tender and juicy.


Instructions


1. Remove from the wrapper and discard any juices in the package. Remove the plastic disc that covers the bone on the top of the ham. This is put in place for appearance and serves no purpose in cooking.


2. Place the ham meat side down in a baking pan. Cooking the ham with the flesh down holds the slices firmly in place and prevents drying. Add ½ to ¾ cup water to the bottom of the pan.


3. Cover with a loose tent of aluminum foil and crimp the edges to the rim of the pan. If you choose to use a roaster keep in mind that the ham will cook faster and may be subject to drying. Monitor closely if baking in a roaster.


4. Bake in a 350-degree oven for 10 to 12 minutes per pound. Internal temperature should reach 160 degrees. The ham is generally fully cooked and just requires heating to release natural juices and enhance flavor.


5. Baste with ham juices every 20 minutes to keep the ham moist and to retain flavor.


6. Apply glaze 10 minutes before ham is done. Most come with a glaze packet that may require mixing with water to prepare. For a tastier glaze, use orange or pineapple juice instead of water when making the glaze. Brush the glaze over the entire surface of the ham and allow to bake uncovered for the remaining 10 minutes to create a nice caramelized ham.


7. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Cut whole slices away from the bone by making a vertical along the bone. Serve on a platter with the condiments of your choice.







Tags: from oven, Prepare Spiral, Prepare Spiral Sliced, Remove from, Spiral Sliced