Boil-Bake Country Ham
A flavorful boiled and baked country ham with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions requiring savory, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the ham overnight in cold water to cover in a large roaster or stock pot.
- Remove the ham in the morning, scrub with a brush under running water until cleaned of debris.
- Place the ham back in the roaster and cover with water.
- Add 1 cup vinegar and 1 cup dark brown sugar to the water and bring to a boil.
- Immediately reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Simmer for 20 minutes per pound for older ham, or 15 to 18 minutes per pound for quick-aged ham, until the small bone in the hock can be pulled out with fingers.
- Let the ham cool in the cooking water overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even richer flavor, consider adding spices like black peppercorns or bay leaves to the boiling liquid. If you don't have dark brown sugar, light brown sugar can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be milder. Remember to check the ham's weight to accurately calculate the simmering time. For an added twist, glaze the ham with a mix of mustard and honey before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham with classic sides like Doctored Beans or Cheese And Bacon Potatoes for a hearty meal. Thinly sliced ham can also be used in sandwiches or served on a charcuterie board. Pair it with tangy mustard or sweet glaze and a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. The robust flavors of this ham complement a variety of dishes, making it a versatile centerpiece.
Storage & Reheating
Once the ham has cooled, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider slicing the ham and freezing it in airtight containers for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a covered dish with a splash of water and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Boil-Bake Country Ham contains roughly 302 calories, with 7g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), iron (78% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the small bone in the hock can be easily pulled out with your fingers. This indicates that the meat has reached the right tenderness. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 145°F for safe consumption.
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
While this recipe is designed for country ham, you can use other types such as city ham or spiral-cut ham. Adjust the cooking time according to the type and weight of the ham, as they may require different cooking methods and times to achieve optimal tenderness.
What should I do with the leftover cooking liquid?
The cooking liquid is flavorful and can be repurposed! Use it as a base for soups or stews, or add it to baked beans for a delicious twist. It can also be used to enhance the flavor of vegetables when steaming or boiling them. Don't discard this liquid; it's packed with flavor!
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).