Country Ham
A savory, tender country ham with a rich, salty flavor, perfect for special occasions or hearty meals, offering a classic Southern taste that appeals to meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the ham completely covered in cold water for 24 hours to remove excess salt, then drain.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Shake flour inside an oven bag and place it in a deep roasting pan at least 2 inches high.
- Scrub the ham in warm water with a stiff brush and rinse well.
- Place the ham in the prepared oven bag.
- Add 4 cups of water to the bag.
- Close the bag with a nylon tie and cut six 1/2-inch slits in the top.
- Puncture the thickest part of the ham through a slit in the bag with a knife.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the ham, ensuring it does not touch the bone.
- Bake until the meat thermometer reaches 160°F (71°C), approximately 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours.
- Let the ham stand in the bag for 15 minutes after removing from the oven.
- Trim the skin and excess fat from the ham before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the water when soaking the ham. If you don't have an oven bag, a covered roasting pan can work, but ensure to baste periodically. For a caramelized crust, brush the ham with a honey glaze during the last hour of baking. This recipe can be easily adapted with different seasonings to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of country ham with traditional sides like cornbread or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Baked Slice Of Ham and can be complemented with a tangy mustard on the side. For a festive touch, consider adding a fruit chutney or glaze. This ham also works well in sandwiches or as part of a charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover country ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, slice the ham and warm it gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Ham contains roughly 5 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. It's done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Keep in mind that cooking times can vary based on the size of the ham.
Can I use a different type of ham?
While country ham is traditional, you can substitute with a city ham or a spiral-cut ham. Adjust the soaking time accordingly, as city hams are often less salty. The cooking method remains similar, but always check for doneness.
What should I do if my ham is too salty?
If your ham is too salty after soaking, you can try boiling it briefly before baking to draw out more salt. Adding a sweet glaze during the last hour of baking can also help balance the 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).