Baked Country Ham
Baked country ham offers a rich, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness from molasses, resulting in tender, glazed meat perfect for festive gatherings or hearty family dinners. The slow baking process enhances its smoky, salty profile, making it an impressive centerpiece for traditional celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the ham in cold water for 24 hours.
- Remove the ham from water and place it in a roaster pan.
- Mix 2 quarts of water with 1 cup of molasses and pour the mixture over the ham.
- Cover the ham with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil and place the lid on the roaster.
- Preheat the oven to 500°F.
- Bake the ham for 30 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and leave the ham inside for 3 hours.
- Turn the oven back on and let it reach 500°F again, then bake for another 30 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and leave the ham overnight, starting at 2:00 PM.
- Do not open the oven after starting.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Baked Country Ham, consider adding spices like black pepper or cloves to the molasses mixture. If you don't have molasses, dark brown sugar can be a suitable substitute. Make sure to soak the ham for at least 24 hours to remove excess salt, ensuring a balanced flavor. For even more variety, check out other American recipes that feature ham.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Country Ham is delicious when served with traditional sides like collard greens or cornbread. For a hearty meal, pair it with Clara'S Fried Corned Beef Pies or a simple salad. This dish can also be enjoyed in sandwiches, making it versatile for lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Baked Country Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place slices in a covered dish with a splash of water or broth and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This method keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Country Ham contains roughly 124 calories, with 1g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value).
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 different type of ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of smoked or cured ham, but cooking times may vary. Ensure that the ham you choose is similar in weight and saltiness to achieve the best results.
What can I do if I don’t have a roaster pan?
If you don't have a roaster pan, a deep baking dish or a large casserole dish can work well. Just ensure it's covered tightly with foil to trap moisture during cooking.
How do I know when the ham is done?
The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness. Remember, the ham will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
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).