West Virginia Ham
A hearty West Virginia ham glazed with brown sugar and apples, perfect for family gatherings. Rich, sweet, and savory flavors suited for traditional Southern celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Choose a country cured ham for the recipe.
- Soak the ham in water for a day, changing the water every 8 hours, for a total of three water changes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, choose a country cured ham, which adds depth to the dish. If you can't find brown sugar, you can substitute with a mix of white sugar and molasses. When soaking the ham, ensure to change the water every 8 hours for optimal salt reduction. This dish pairs beautifully with Aunt Mary's Potatoes for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the West Virginia Ham with roasted green apples on the side for a sweet contrast. It also goes well with Hearty Farm Soup to enhance the meal's heartiness. For a festive touch, consider adding a fresh green salad or Layer Salad (Use 9 X 12-Inch Pan) for a colorful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through, adding a splash of sherry wine for extra moisture. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of West Virginia Ham contains roughly 874 calories, with 1g protein, 223g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% 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 different type of ham?
Yes, while country cured ham is traditional, you can use other types such as smoked or spiral-cut ham. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of ham you choose.
What is the purpose of soaking the ham?
Soaking the ham helps to reduce its saltiness, making it more palatable. It's essential to change the water regularly to ensure effective soaking and prevent any off-flavors.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ham a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving to ensure it's warm and flavorful.
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).