Old Fashioned Boiled Ham
Old Fashioned Boiled Ham offers tender, flavorful meat infused with bay leaves and cloves, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Its simplicity highlights classic savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 boneless ham shoulder ⓘ
Instructions
- Place the ham in a large kettle and cover with cold water.
- Add the bay leaf and cloves to the water.
- Cover the kettle and boil gently for about 4 hours, or approximately 25 minutes per pound, until tender.
- Let the ham remain in the water for about 2 to 3 hours before removing.
- Serve the ham when ready.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the ham shoulder in a mixture of water, vinegar, and spices overnight before boiling. If you don’t have bay leaves, you can substitute with dried thyme or oregano. To save time, use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time significantly while still achieving tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham sliced warm or cold, and pair it with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It also complements well with a drizzle of Basic Vinegar Dressing for a tangy contrast. For a festive touch, serve with Crunchy Sweet Pickles on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover boiled ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap the ham tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice and warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Boiled Ham contains roughly 78 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 bone-in ham shoulder for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bone-in ham shoulder. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in cuts may take longer to become tender. Expect approximately 30 minutes per pound for boiling.
What can I do with leftover boiled ham?
Leftover boiled ham can be used in various dishes. Consider making ham sandwiches, adding it to soups, or using it in casseroles. It can also be diced and added to breakfast scrambles for a hearty meal.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for this recipe?
For a vegetarian option, consider using a vegetable-based protein like seitan or tempeh, marinated and boiled in a similar way. While it won't replicate the flavor of ham, you can infuse it with spices to create a savory dish that satisfies.
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).