Country Ham Bake
A hearty country ham bake featuring a flavorful soaking and boiling process that enhances the ham's savory taste, perfect for family gatherings and traditional Southern meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the country ham in a clean lard can or very large pot filled with hot water just below the boiling point.
- Let the ham boil for 10 to 15 minutes to clean and remove excess salt.
- Remove the ham and discard the water.
- Place the ham in the can and fill the can half full with hot water.
- Add 4 quarts of ginger ale or cola drink and put the top loosely on the can.
- Bring to a full rolling boil and cook for 30 minutes.
- The ginger ale or cola helps to bring out the flavor of the ham.
- Place about 4 layers of newspaper on the floor and set the can (with the ham) on the papers.
- Press the lid on lightly; wrap the papers around the sides and top of the can and tie with string.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Country Ham Bake, consider using a mix of ginger ale and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist. If ginger ale isn't available, a citrus soda or even a light beer can work as substitutes. Make sure to soak the ham thoroughly to reduce saltiness and improve tenderness. Always monitor the boiling process to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Country Ham Bake is delicious served with traditional sides like cornbread, collard greens, or Jean'S Baked Beans for a hearty meal. Pair it with a fresh salad for balance, or serve it in sandwiches with mustard for a flavorful lunch option. This dish also goes well with sweet potato dishes or roasted vegetables for a complete feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to three months. When reheating, slice the ham and warm it gently in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Ham Bake contains roughly 52 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% 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 smaller ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a smaller ham; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a ham weighing around 5-8 lbs, reduce the boiling time to about 5-10 minutes and the cooking time to 20-25 minutes. This ensures that the ham is heated through without becoming overly dry.
What should I do if I don't have a lard can?
If you don't have a lard can, a large, heavy-duty pot or deep roasting pan will work just fine. Ensure that it is large enough to hold the ham and liquid without spilling over. A Dutch oven can also be a great alternative for this recipe, as it retains heat well.
Can I prepare the ham in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the ham a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it well. When ready to serve, gently reheat it in the oven, maintaining its juiciness and 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).