Hilda'S Ham
Hilda's Ham is a tender, flavorful baked ham cooked with Pepsi for a subtly sweet and caramelized finish. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, this dish yields a juicy, fall-apart ham with a beautifully browned exterior, offering a unique twist on traditional ham recipes.
Ingredients
- 15 lb. ham
- 2 liter Pepsi ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Remove the plastic wrap from the ham and place it in the bottom of a broiler pan without an insert.
- Pour 1/2 of the Pepsi over the top of the ham.
- Cover loosely with foil and place in the oven.
- Bake for 15 minutes per pound, approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes for a 15 lb. ham.
- Periodically remove the ham from the oven and baste with the Pepsi and ham juices.
- During the last hour of baking, remove the foil to allow the ham to brown nicely.
- Once done, the ham will fall apart easily and no knife is needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding spices like cloves or brown sugar to the Pepsi before pouring it over the ham. If you don't have Pepsi, any cola will work as a substitute. This method keeps the ham moist and infuses it with sweetness. Basting frequently is key to achieving a beautifully caramelized exterior while ensuring the inside remains juicy.
Serving Suggestions
This ham pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside Ham Biscuits for a delightful brunch or as part of a festive spread. For a complete meal, complement it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a light white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hilda'S Ham contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g 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
Can I use a different type of soda for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Pepsi with any cola or even a root beer for a unique flavor twist. Just keep in mind that different sodas may alter the sweetness and overall taste of the ham slightly.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your ham is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140°F for fully cooked ham. Since this recipe cooks it slowly, it should be tender and easily pull apart when done.
What can I do with leftover ham?
Leftover ham can be used in various dishes such as sandwiches, salads, or even in casseroles like Quaker Stew(Casserole). It can also be diced for breakfast scrambles or used in soups, making it a versatile ingredient for several meals.
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).