Aunt Joan'S Ham
A tender, flavorful ham recipe featuring a unique overnight cooking process that results in a moist, savory centerpiece perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
- smoked ham (butt) ⓘ
Instructions
- Cut off the skin and as much fat as possible from the smoked ham (butt).
- Place the ham face cut side down in a roasting pan.
- Add 2 cups of water to the pan.
- Cover the pan with a lid or foil.
- Put the pan in a cold oven.
- Turn the oven to 400°F and then immediately turn it off.
- Leave the ham undisturbed in the oven for 2 hours.
- Turn the oven back on and heat to 400°F. When the temperature reaches 400°F, cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and leave the ham inside overnight.
- Do not open or remove the ham until the next morning.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose a high-quality smoked ham butt to enhance flavor. If you don't have a roasting pan, a deep baking dish can work. Instead of water, you can add apple juice or orange juice for a subtle sweetness. Make sure to let the ham sit overnight to absorb the flavors, just like in Pork Chop And Sauerkraut.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the ham and serve it with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. For a delightful meal, pair it with sweet dishes such as baked beans or a tangy coleslaw. It also complements breakfast items well, making it a perfect addition to an Overnight Bacon Casserole or alongside eggs.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a bit of water, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Joan'S Ham contains roughly 3 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a fresh ham instead of a smoked ham?
Using a fresh ham will alter the flavor and cooking process significantly, as it requires brining and longer cooking times. It's best to stick with a smoked ham for this recipe to achieve the intended taste and texture.
What if I don't have a cold oven feature?
If your oven doesn't have a cold oven feature, simply preheat it to 400°F, then turn it off before placing the ham inside. Ensure to monitor the temperature closely to avoid cooking the ham too quickly.
Can I add spices or glaze to the ham?
Absolutely! Feel free to apply a glaze made from brown sugar, honey, or mustard before cooking. You can also sprinkle spices like cloves or cinnamon for added flavor, but keep it balanced to not overpower the smoked taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).