Cuban Ham
A flavorful Cuban-style glazed ham with orange juice, oregano, and cumin, topped with onions. Perfect for festive gatherings and hearty meals with bold, zesty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate the cooked ham with the mixture of orange juice, oregano, crushed garlic, and cumin for 12 hours.
- Make many slits in the top of the ham.
- Pour the marinade mixture over the ham.
- Cover the ham with sliced onions and marinate for another 12 hours.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1.5 hours, turning once and spooning the marinade over the top.
- Slice thinly and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, let the ham marinate longer than 12 hours. If fresh herbs are available, feel free to substitute fresh oregano for dried. You can also use lemon juice instead of orange juice for a different citrus profile. Consider adjusting the spices to your taste, perhaps adding a pinch of cayenne for heat if you enjoy a little kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cuban ham with a side of black beans and rice for a classic pairing. It also goes well with a fresh mixed greens salad, like Mixed Greens(Weight Watchers), to balance the richness of the ham. For an appetizer, consider serving with Lois' Bacon Wraps for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, tightly wrap the ham in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish with a bit of marinade or broth, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Heat in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cuban Ham contains roughly 2358 calories, with 100g protein, 301g carbohydrates, and 131g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (288% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (199% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1312mg per serving (57% 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 different type of meat instead of ham?
Yes, while the recipe is designed for ham, you can adapt it for pork shoulder or turkey. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats have varying sizes and cooking requirements.
Is it necessary to marinate the ham?
Marinating is essential for infusing the ham with flavor. It allows the spices and citrus to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste. Skipping this step may result in a less flavorful dish.
What can I do with leftover ham?
Leftover Cuban ham can be used in a variety of dishes. Try adding it to omelets or salads, or use it in sandwiches. You can also incorporate it into soups or stews for added flavor, similar to how you might use it with Kahului Kalua Pork.
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).