Boiled Picnic Ham
Juicy boiled picnic ham infused with sweet brown sugar and aromatic cloves, perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, served hot or cold with versatile flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the ham with water in a kettle.
- Add the onion, garlic, brown sugar, and cloves to the water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to simmer.
- Simmer for 2 to 3 hours or until the ham is tender.
- Cool the ham in the water.
- Remove the ham from water.
- Drain well.
- Slice the ham.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using apple cider or broth instead of water to boil the ham. If you don't have dark brown sugar, light brown sugar can be substituted, but it will be less rich. Enhance the dish with spices like black peppercorns or bay leaves. When slicing, make sure to cut against the grain for tender pieces.
Serving Suggestions
This boiled picnic ham is delicious served hot or cold. Pair it with sides like Quick And Easy Potatoes or Greeo Casserole for a hearty meal. For a casual spread, serve with sandwiches or as part of a charcuterie board, complemented by cheeses and pickles. It also works well in breakfast dishes like Saturday'S Ham And Egg Scramble.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place the slices in a baking dish with a bit of water, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Boiled Picnic Ham contains roughly 293 calories, with 6g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 9g 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?
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 145°F for safety and tenderness. The ham should also be easily pierced with a fork when it's done. If you're simmering for 2 to 3 hours, you can usually trust it will be cooked through.
Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, you can use other types of pork recipes like a shank or butt ham, but cooking times may vary. Adjust the simmering time based on the size and type of ham, ensuring it's tender before serving.
What can I do with leftover ham?
Leftover ham is versatile; you can use it in sandwiches, salads, or breakfast dishes. It’s delicious in recipes like Stuffed Mushrooms(Great Appetizer... Melts In Your Mouth) or as a protein addition to soups and casseroles.
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).