How To Cook A Country Ham
A hearty, savory country ham dish perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, featuring tender, flavorful ham with a smoky, salt-cured taste that appeals to meat lovers.
Ingredients
- 18 to 20 lb. ham ⓘ
Instructions
- Boil the ham in water, covered, for 1 hour on the stove.
- Place the ham in a large turkey bag inside a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Add 2 cups of water inside the bag and tie it securely.
- Slit three holes in the top of the bag.
- Bake in the oven at 400°F for 1 hour.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 200°F and bake for about 4 hours.
- Remove from the oven and let the ham cool.
- Bone the ham and tie it with string.
- Let the ham cool before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a glaze made of brown sugar and mustard during the last hour of baking. If the ham is too salty, soak it in water overnight before cooking. You can also substitute the water in the turkey bag with apple cider for a sweeter flavor. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches at least 145°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham alongside traditional sides like Duffie'S Baked Beans or a refreshing Sweet And Sour Cold Broccoli Salad for a balanced meal. Thinly sliced ham also makes excellent sandwich fillings, perfect for 2 Dozen Sandwiches. Pair with a tangy mustard sauce or a sweet glaze for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. When reheating, cover the ham with foil in the oven to keep it moist, heating it at 325°F until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of How To Cook A Country Ham contains roughly 36 calories, with 2g protein, 1g 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
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The best way to determine if your ham is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F. After removing it from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I use a smaller ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a smaller ham. Adjust the cooking times accordingly; a smaller ham will take less time to cook. A good rule of thumb is to cook it for about 20 minutes per pound at the lower temperature after the initial high-heat bake.
What can I do with leftover ham?
Leftover ham is incredibly versatile! You can add it to soups, like a hearty split pea soup, or use it in casseroles, omelets, or salads. It also works great in sandwiches, or try it in Pork Chops And Sauce for a delicious twist.
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).