Country Or Cured Ham
Country or cured ham cooked with a sweet and tangy marinade of Pepsi-Cola and vinegar, creating a savory and slightly acidic flavor profile. Perfect for gatherings or hearty family meals, this dish offers a unique twist on traditional ham with a hint of sweetness and zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a 15-gallon pot to prepare the dish.
- Place the ham in the pot.
- Pour one bottle of Pepsi-Cola over the ham.
- Add one cup of vinegar to the pot.
- Cook until the ham is tender and flavors meld, approximately 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, consider adding spices like black pepper or garlic powder to the ham before cooking. If you don't have Pepsi-Cola, a cola-flavored soda or even a ginger ale can work as a substitute. For an added twist, try marinating the ham overnight in the soda and vinegar mixture. This is a great method to use for other American recipes as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham sliced, drizzled with the cooking liquid for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and makes a delightful addition to a Cheese Appetizer platter. Consider serving it with a fresh salad or alongside the Rosemary Pork Chops for a hearty meal.
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 skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it gently in the oven wrapped in foil at 300°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Or Cured Ham contains roughly 118 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 3g 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
Can I use a different type of soda for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any cola-flavored soda or even a non-caffeinated option like root beer. The key is to maintain the sweetness and acidity balance, which helps tenderize the ham and enhance its flavor.
How do I know when the ham is done cooking?
The ham is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork, which usually takes about 3 hours. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 145°F.
Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, place the ham in the slow cooker, pour the soda and vinegar over it, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until tender. This method helps retain moisture and infuse the flavors beautifully.
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).