Baked Fresh Ham With Sherry Baste
A flavorful baked fresh ham glazed with sherry, featuring a crisp scored exterior and tender, juicy meat, perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the rind from the ham.
- Season the ham with salt and pepper.
- Place the ham in a roaster pan, bone side down.
- Score the top of the ham in a diamond design with a sharp knife.
- Add water to the pan and tent the ham with heavy foil.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 4 hours or until the ham is tender and pulls away from the bone.
- Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with sherry.
- Save the browned pan drippings for gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, let the ham sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. You can substitute the sherry with apple cider or white wine if needed. To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the basting liquid. Make sure to keep an eye on the water level in the pan; it should not dry out during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked ham with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Excellent Breakfast Casserole for a brunch spread. Don't forget to make use of the browned pan drippings for a savory gravy, enhancing the overall dish experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish with a splash of water or sherry, then cover with foil and warm in a 325°F (163°C) oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Fresh Ham With Sherry Baste contains roughly 10 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1760mg per serving (77% 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
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) measured with a meat thermometer. It should also feel tender and easily pull away from the bone. Allowing the ham to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing will help retain its juices.
Can I use a pre-cooked ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a pre-cooked ham, but you'll need to adjust the baking time to prevent it from drying out. A pre-cooked ham typically requires just 10-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C). Basting with sherry will still add great flavor.
What can I do with leftover ham?
Leftover ham is incredibly versatile. You can use it in sandwiches, add it to soups, or incorporate it into casseroles. It also works great in recipes like Barbecued Beans 'N Beef or as a topping for homemade pizzas. Get creative with your leftovers!
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).