Baked Virginia Ham
A savory baked Virginia ham glazed with mustard, brown sugar, and spices, then basted with ginger ale for a tender, flavorful centerpiece perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub the ham with a brush and clean it well.
- Soak the ham in water for more than 12 hours, skin side up, ensuring it is fully covered.
- Drain the water, then cover with fresh water and simmer the ham for twenty minutes per pound, turning it during cooking.
- Let the ham cool in the same water.
- Remove the skin from the ham and rub it with dry mustard and brown sugar, then apply a thin layer of toasted bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle paprika and insert whole cloves every square inch over the ham.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes, basting every 5 minutes with 1 quart of ginger ale.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a drizzle of honey to the mustard and brown sugar rub. If you don't have toasted bread crumbs, crushed crackers or cornflakes can serve as a substitute. Letting the ham rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making it more succulent. This dish can easily be a Main Dish For Six during gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of baked Virginia ham with a side of Sweet Sour Broccoli And Cauliflower for a colorful plate. Mashed potatoes or a light salad also pair well, providing a nice balance to the rich flavors of the ham. Consider offering a tangy mustard sauce on the side for added zest.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in a covered dish with a splash of ginger ale at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Virginia Ham contains roughly 946 calories, with 32g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (66% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1739mg per serving (76% 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, while Virginia ham is traditional, you can use other types such as honey-baked ham or even a smoked ham. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of ham you choose.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F when reheating, or 145°F if it’s a raw ham. Use a meat thermometer to check, ensuring it's heated through but not dry.
Can I prepare the ham a day in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ham up to the point of baking. After applying the rub and before baking, wrap it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before baking for best results.
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).