If you're looking for a delicious and flavorful way to prepare smoked ham, then this boiled smoked ham recipe is perfect for you. Boiling the ham helps to infuse it with moisture and enhances its natural smoky flavors. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing a mouthwatering boiled smoked ham.
What do you put in the water when boiling ham?
To begin, place the soaked ham in a large pan. Add sliced onions, cloves, peppercorns, and a bay leaf to enhance the flavors. These aromatic ingredients will complement the smoky taste of the ham.
Next, cover the ham with water. Make sure the water level is enough to fully submerge the ham. Bring the water to a boil and skim away any impurities that rise to the surface. This will help to ensure a clear and flavorful broth.
Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the ham to cook for about 20 minutes per 450g (1lb). This slow cooking process will help the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it tender and juicy.
Preparing the ham for baking
While the ham is simmering, preheat your oven to 190C/170C Fan/Gas This will ensure that the ham gets a nice golden crust when baked.
Once the ham is cooked, carefully remove it from the pan and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to remove the skin without damaging the meat.
At this point, you can choose to leave the fat on the ham as it is or score it to create a diamond pattern. Scoring the fat will allow it to crisp up and add an extra layer of texture to the dish.
Brush the ham with mustard to add a tangy flavor and sprinkle it generously with demerara sugar. The sugar will caramelize during baking, creating a delicious sweet and savory crust on the ham.
Baking the ham
Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake it for 30-40 minutes. Make sure to baste the ham with its juices and the caramelized sugar every 10 minutes. This will help to keep the ham moist and intensify its flavors.
Once the ham has turned a beautiful golden color, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-30 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more succulent and tender ham.
If you prefer to enjoy the ham cold, you can refrigerate it after baking and serve it chilled. The flavors will still be delicious, and the ham will make a perfect addition to sandwiches or charcuterie boards.
Is boiled ham the same as cooked ham?
Boiled ham and cooked ham are essentially the same thing. Boiling is a cooking method used to prepare ham, and it results in a moist and tender meat. The term cooked ham is often used to refer to ham that has been cooked through boiling or other methods such as baking or roasting.
Boiling the ham not only enhances its flavors but also helps to remove excess salt and fat. This makes it a healthier option compared to other cooking methods that may involve adding additional fats or salt.
Now that you have the recipe for a delicious boiled smoked ham, it's time to gather the ingredients and get cooking. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the deliciousness of a perfectly cooked boiled smoked ham!
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