Country ham is a beloved Southern tradition that you'll love to learn about! It's a type of pork that's dry-cured and aged for several months, giving it a rich, salty flavor. The process started with early settlers who needed to preserve meat. Today, it's a cherished part of Southern cuisine. To prepare country ham, you'll need to soak it first to remove excess salt. Then, you'll cook it slowly, often with a sweet glaze for extra flavor. It's perfect for special occasions and family gatherings. If you're curious about this tasty treat, there's so much more to discover about its history and preparation.
Key Takeaways
- Country ham is a Southern U.S. delicacy, dry-cured and aged for months, known for its rich, salty flavor.
- Preparation involves soaking the ham for 24-72 hours to remove excess salt before cooking.
- The ham is typically boiled, then glazed with a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and mustard before baking.
- Internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C), with cooking time usually 10-15 minutes per pound.
- Country ham represents Southern culinary tradition and is often served during special occasions and family gatherings.
History
Throughout history, country ham has been a staple of Southern cuisine in the United States. You might wonder how this delicious treat came to be. Well, it all started with early settlers who needed to preserve their meat. They learned to cure pork using salt, which helped it last longer.
As time went on, people got creative with their curing methods. They added sugar and spices to make the ham taste even better. In the 1800s, country ham became really popular in the South. Farmers would raise pigs and cure the meat themselves. It was a way to have food all year round.
You'll find that each region developed its own special way of making country ham. Some places smoke it, while others don't. The curing time can be different too. In Virginia, they're known for their long-aged hams that can take up to a year to cure!
Today, country ham is still loved by many. It's a big part of Southern culture and traditions. You'll often see it at holiday meals and special gatherings.
Recipe
Country ham is a Southern delicacy known for its rich, salty flavor and firm texture. This traditional dish is typically dry-cured and aged for several months, resulting in a ham that's much saltier and drier than its city ham counterpart. While it can be enjoyed raw, cooking country ham brings out its full flavor potential and creates a delicious centerpiece for any meal.
Preparing country ham requires a bit of patience and technique, but the results are well worth the effort. This recipe will guide you through the process of cooking a country ham to perfection, ensuring a tender and flavorful outcome that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
- 1 whole country ham (12-15 pounds)
- Water
- Brown sugar
- Whole cloves
- Pineapple juice (optional)
- Honey (optional)
Begin by soaking the country ham in cold water for 24-36 hours, changing the water every 8 hours. This process helps remove excess salt.
After soaking, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the ham from the water, rinse it, and place it fat-side up in a large roasting pan. Add about 1 inch of water to the pan, cover tightly with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
For a more flavorful finish, you can create a glaze by mixing brown sugar, pineapple juice, and honey. After the initial cooking time, remove the ham from the oven, score the fat in a diamond pattern, and stud with whole cloves. Then, pour the glaze over the ham and return it to the oven to caramelize the glaze. This will give the ham a delicious, sweet and tangy flavor that everyone will love. For a special touch, serve the ham with a side of homemade chocolate gravy recipe for a truly decadent meal.
Brush the glaze over the ham and return it to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized. Remember that country ham is naturally quite salty, so avoid adding any additional salt during the cooking process.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Cooking Steps
Get ready to cook a delicious country ham!
You'll start by soaking and scrubbing the ham, then boil it in seasoned water for a flavorful base.
Next, you'll add a sweet touch with a honey glaze before baking until a perfect crust forms on the outside.
Step 1. Soak Ham in Water
The first step in preparing your country ham is to soak it in water. This crucial process helps remove excess salt and softens the meat. You'll want to use cold water and a container large enough to fully submerge the ham. Place the ham in the container and cover it completely with water. Make sure there's enough space for the ham to be surrounded by water on all sides.
Now, here's the important part: let the ham soak for at least 24 hours. Some people prefer to soak their hams for up to 72 hours, changing the water every 12 hours. This longer soaking time can make the ham less salty and more tender. As you soak the ham, you might notice the water turning slightly pink. Don't worry, this is normal!
Remember to keep the ham in the refrigerator while it's soaking. This prevents bacteria growth and keeps your ham safe to eat.
After soaking, remove the ham from the water and pat it dry with paper towels. Now you're ready for the next exciting step in cooking your delicious country ham!
Step 2. Scrub and Rinse Ham Thoroughly
After soaking, it's time to scrub and rinse your ham thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove any leftover salt and impurities from the surface. Grab a clean brush or scouring pad and get ready to give your ham a good scrub!
Start by placing the ham in a clean sink or large basin. Run cool water over it, making sure to cover all areas. As the water flows, use your brush to gently scrub the entire surface of the ham. Pay extra attention to any crevices or folds in the meat.
You'll notice the water might look a bit cloudy at first – that's okay! It means you're doing a great job cleaning off the excess salt.
Keep scrubbing and rinsing until the water runs clear. This might take a few minutes, but it's worth the effort. Once you're done, give the ham a final rinse to make sure it's spotless.
Now your ham is clean and ready for the next step in preparing your delicious country ham!
Step 3. Boil Ham in Seasoned Water
Now that your ham is clean, it's time to give it a flavor-packed bath. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the ham completely. Add some tasty ingredients to the water to make your ham even more delicious. You can use bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic cloves, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. These will infuse the ham with amazing flavors as it cooks.
Place the ham in the pot and bring the water to a boil. Once it's bubbling, turn down the heat to let it simmer gently. You'll want to cook the ham for about 20-25 minutes per pound. This slow cooking process helps make the meat tender and juicy.
While it's simmering, you might notice a foam forming on top of the water. Don't worry, this is normal! Just skim it off with a spoon every now and then.
Keep an eye on the pot and make sure the water doesn't boil too hard. A gentle simmer is perfect. When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the ham from the pot. It's hot, so be careful! Let it cool a bit before you move on to the next step.
Step 4. Glaze Ham With Honey
Honey-glazed perfection awaits your country ham. After boiling, it's time to add a sweet touch.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. While it's heating up, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of honey with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of mustard. Stir until it's smooth and runny.
Take your boiled ham and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in a baking dish, fat side up. Score the fat in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart. This helps the glaze stick better.
Now, brush half the glaze over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly. Pop it in the oven for 20 minutes.
Then, take it out and brush on the rest of the glaze. Put it back in for another 20 minutes or until it's golden brown and bubbly.
Watch closely so it doesn't burn. When it's done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Your honey-glazed country ham is ready to enjoy!
Step 5. Bake Until Crust Forms
For the final stage of preparing your country ham, you'll bake it until a delicious crust forms. This step is where the magic happens!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the glazed ham on a rack in a roasting pan. Make sure there's a little space between the ham and the sides of the pan.
Now, pop that beauty into the oven and let it bake. You'll want to keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary. Generally, it'll take about 10-15 minutes per pound. As it bakes, the glaze will start to caramelize, creating a mouthwatering crust.
You'll know it's ready when the crust is a deep golden brown and slightly crispy. The ham's internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C). If you notice the crust browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Once it's done, take it out and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This waiting time helps the juices settle, making your ham even more delicious!
Final Thoughts
Savoring country ham is a time-honored tradition that's deeply rooted in Southern culture. As you've learned, preparing this delicacy takes time and patience, but the results are well worth the effort.
You've discovered how to choose the perfect ham, soak it to reduce saltiness, and cook it to perfection. The crispy, golden-brown crust you've created is a testament to your culinary skills.
Remember, country ham isn't just food; it's a celebration of heritage and craftsmanship. Each slice tells a story of generations past and the art of preserving meat. As you share your ham with family and friends, you're keeping this tradition alive.
Don't forget to save the leftovers! Country ham makes excellent sandwiches, and you can use the bone to flavor soups and stews.
You've mastered a skill that connects you to Southern history and culture. Be proud of your achievement and enjoy the fruits of your labor. With practice, you'll become an expert in preparing this Southern delicacy, creating memories and tasty meals for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Can Country Ham Be Stored Before It Goes Bad?
You'll find that properly cured country ham can last incredibly long. If it's uncooked and vacuum-sealed, you can store it for up to a year in the fridge. Once opened, it's best to consume within a week or two.
Is Country Ham Healthier Than Regular Ham?
You'll find that country ham isn't necessarily healthier than regular ham. It's often saltier and higher in sodium. However, it's typically less processed and contains fewer additives. Consider your dietary needs when choosing between the two.
Can Country Ham Be Frozen for Long-Term Storage?
Yes, you can freeze country ham for long-term storage. It's a great way to preserve its flavor and quality. You'll want to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag before freezing.
Are There Any Vegetarian Alternatives to Country Ham?
You'll find several vegetarian alternatives to replicate that salty, smoky flavor. Try tempeh bacon, seitan ham, or smoked tofu slices. You can also use liquid smoke and salt to season plant-based proteins for a similar taste experience.
What Wine Pairs Best With Country Ham?
You'll want a wine that complements the salty, smoky flavors. Try a crisp white like Riesling or Gewürztraminer. If you prefer red, go for a light-bodied Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. Don't forget sparkling wines; they're great too!
Chloe is the go-to for classic Southern comfort food. From buttery biscuits to crispy fried chicken, Chloe knows how to whip up soul-warming meals that make you feel at home. She also loves hosting outdoor barbecues and picnics, bringing a touch of Southern hospitality to every dish.
