Mock Country Ham
A sweet and savory mock country ham featuring ham sliced and coated with brown sugar, baked with 7-Up for a tender, flavorful dish reminiscent of traditional country ham.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat brown sugar generously and firmly over the ham slice.
- Gently pour 7-Up over the sugar and ham into the pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven; baste with the sugar and 7-Up from the bottom of the pan often.
- Serve and enjoy this flavorful dish that tastes like real country ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use a high-quality ham slice and don't skimp on the brown sugar; it caramelizes beautifully during baking. If you don't have 7-Up, any lemon-lime soda will work as a substitute. Additionally, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor. For a different twist, try using a honey glaze instead of brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This mock country ham pairs beautifully with sides like collard greens or cornbread, complementing its savory-sweet profile. For a refreshing touch, serve alongside a light salad or Slaw By Nathaniel. You can also add roasted vegetables or a fruit salad to balance the richness of the ham.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mock country ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a covered baking dish with a splash of 7-Up in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This will help retain moisture and flavor while preventing it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Country Ham contains roughly 97 calories, with 0g protein, 25g 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?
Yes, you can substitute 7-Up with any lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, or even apple juice. Each alternative will give a unique flavor profile while still keeping the dish moist and sweet. Experimenting with different sodas can add a fun twist to this recipe.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Mock country ham is great for meal prep. Just prepare it as directed, portion it out, and store it in the refrigerator. It makes for a quick and easy meal when paired with your favorite sides throughout the week.
How can I make this dish more spicy?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the brown sugar before applying it to the ham. You can also serve it with a spicy mustard or hot sauce on the side for added flavor. This will create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the dish.
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).