Smithfield Ham
A hearty and flavorful ham dish featuring a large Smithfield ham that's been carefully soaked and baked. The result is a tender, juicy ham with a smoky, savory taste, perfect for special occasions or family dinners. Its simple ingredients highlight the natural richness of the ham, appealing to meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub the ham with a brush to remove any mold on the skin.
- Soak the ham in cold water for 8 hours.
- Place the ham in a roaster, fat side down, and add 5 cups of water.
- Cover the top of the pan with foil, making it as airtight as possible, before putting on the roaster lid.
- Place the roaster in a cold oven and set the temperature to 500°F.
- Bake the ham at 500°F for 10 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and leave the ham inside for 3 hours, undisturbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider glazing the ham with a mixture of brown sugar and mustard before roasting. If you prefer a sweeter profile, you can substitute honey for brown sugar. Ensure that the ham is fully submerged during the soaking process for even moisture. Adjust the baking time based on the size of the ham, following the general rule of 15 minutes per pound for larger cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Smithfield ham with classic sides such as Cooked Cabbage or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or cornbread. You can also create a delicious sandwich using the leftovers, topped with your choice of mustard or pickles. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a sweet glaze or fruit compote.
Storage & Reheating
Once the ham has cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slice the ham and freeze it in airtight containers for up to 6 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a low oven (around 300°F) until heated through, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smithfield Ham contains roughly 428 calories, with 2g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% 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 smaller or larger ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the soaking and baking times based on the size of the ham. For smaller hams, reduce the soaking time to 4-6 hours, and for larger hams, add additional time, following the 15 minutes per pound guideline.
What should I do if my ham is too salty?
If your ham turns out too salty, you can soak it in cold water for a few hours before cooking. This helps to draw out some of the saltiness. Additionally, serving it with sweet sides like glazed carrots can balance the flavor.
Is it necessary to cover the ham while baking?
Covering the ham with foil is essential for retaining moisture during the cooking process. It helps to create a steamy environment, ensuring the meat remains juicy. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes if you'd like a caramelized crust.
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).