Delicious and healthy nitrate-free smoked ham

If you're a fan of ham but are concerned about the health risks associated with nitrates, then nitrate-free smoked ham is the perfect option for you. This boneless half ham weighing between 5-8 lbs. is truly free of all nitrates, even those naturally occurring in tricky additives like celery powder.

Unlike traditional ham that contains nitrates, this nitrate-free ham is made with only salt, brown sugar, and water. The absence of nitrates gives it a darker color, but it doesn't compromise on taste. In fact, many people find that nitrate-free ham has a more natural and flavorful taste.

Cooking Nitrate-Free Smoked Ham

Although this nitrate-free ham is smoked, it is not a cooked product. Therefore, it's important to cook it to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, as recommended by the USDA. The easiest way to cook a ham is to bake it in the oven.

Here's a simple guide on how to roast a ham with a glaze:

Serving Size and Cooking Time:

• Plan on serving 1/2 lb. boneless ham per person.
• It takes approximately 18-20 minutes per pound to bake a full 10-15 lb. ham in the oven at 325 degrees F.
• For a 5-7 lb. half ham, plan on 22-25 minutes per pound.

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F.

Pour half of your favorite glaze over the top of the ham.

Cover the ham with foil to retain moisture.

Bake the ham in the preheated oven for the calculated cooking time.

At the end of the baking time, uncover the ham and pour the remaining glaze over the top.

Bake until the glaze is caramelized.

Let the ham rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

For a delicious glaze, try melting 1/2 cup of butter with 1 cup of brown sugar. Add 1/2 cup of orange juice, the zest of one orange, 1 tsp of cinnamon, and a pinch of ground cloves. Simmer the glaze for 5-7 minutes until thickened, then pour it over the ham.

Why Choose Nitrate-Free Ham?

There are several reasons why you might choose nitrate-free ham:

• Health Benefits: Nitrates have been linked to various health risks, including increased chances of developing heart disease and certain types of cancers. Choosing nitrate-free ham can help reduce your exposure to these risks.
• Natural and Pure: Nitrate-free ham is made with simple and natural ingredients, without any artificial additives. This makes it a healthier and purer option for those who prefer to eat clean and organic.
• Great Taste: Nitrate-free ham has a more natural and flavorful taste compared to traditional ham. The absence of nitrates allows the true flavors of the meat to shine through.

How to Make Ham Without Nitrates

If you're feeling adventurous and want to try making your own nitrate-free ham, it's entirely possible to do so. There are two main methods for curing ham without sodium nitrites:

Dry Curing Method

The dry curing method is mainly used for smaller cuts of meat, like bacon or small hams. In this method, the curing salt and spices are rubbed onto the surface of the meat and then placed in the refrigerator in a sealed bag or container. This allows the meat to cure slowly over time.

Brine Curing Method

The brine curing method is ideal for larger cuts of meat, such as whole hams. In this method, a brine solution is made with water, salt, sugar, spices, and other flavorings. The meat is then submerged in the brine and left to cure in the refrigerator. This method ensures that the meat is evenly cured and infused with flavor.

Here's a simple recipe for brine curing ham without sodium nitrites:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups salt
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1/2 cup fennel seed
• 1/2 cup mustard seed
• 2 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary or 1 sprig of fresh
• 1 tsp dried thyme or 4 sprigs fresh
• 6 bay leaves
• 1 onion, cut into quarters
• 4 stalks celery, coarsely chopped
• 25 whole garlic cloves, lightly crushed
• 2 gallons filtered water

Instructions:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a large container or pot.
2. Stir the mixture until well combined.
3. Place the ham in the container, ensuring it is completely submerged in the brine.
4. Cover the container and refrigerate for 3 days.
5. Remove the ham from the brine and rinse well with cool water to remove any excess salt.
6. Pat the ham dry with a towel.
7. Allow the ham to air-dry in the refrigerator on a rack for 24 hours before cooking or freezing.

Now you have a delicious nitrate-free ham that you can enjoy without any worries about harmful additives.

The Taste of Nitrate-Free Ham

Nitrate-free ham has a delicious and unique taste that sets it apart from traditional ham. The absence of nitrates allows the true flavors of the meat to shine through. Many people find that nitrate-free ham has a more natural and robust taste compared to its nitrate-containing counterpart.

Whether you're enjoying a slice of nitrate-free ham in a sandwich or serving it as the centerpiece of a holiday meal, you can be confident that you're choosing a healthier and tastier option.

Nitrate-free smoked ham is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional ham. With its absence of nitrates, this ham offers numerous health benefits and a more natural taste. Whether you choose to buy nitrate-free ham or try your hand at curing your own, you can enjoy this flavorful meat with peace of mind. So go ahead, indulge in some nitrate-free smoked ham and savor the deliciousness without any added worries.

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