The Ultimate Guide: How to Cook Ham in a Saucepan for a Perfect Glazed Finish

Cooking ham in a saucepan is a simple yet versatile technique that allows you to create a succulent and flavorful dish with ease. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a quick and easy weeknight meal, this guide will provide you with all the essential knowledge and step-by-step instructions you need to master the art of cooking ham in a saucepan.

Selecting the Right Ham

The first step in cooking ham in a saucepan is to choose the right cut of meat. There are several types of ham available, including:

• Whole ham: A whole ham is the entire leg of a pig, and it requires the most cooking time.
• Half ham: A half ham is half of a whole ham, and it is a good option for smaller gatherings.
• Ham steak: Ham steaks are sliced from a whole ham and are a quick and easy option to cook.
• Canned ham: Canned ham is fully cooked and can be heated in a saucepan for convenience.

Preparing the Ham

Once you have selected your ham, it’s time to prepare it for cooking.

• Remove the packaging: Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any excess fat or skin.
• Score the ham: Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will help the ham absorb the cooking liquid and seasonings.
• Season the ham: Season the ham with your desired spices and herbs. Common seasonings for ham include brown sugar, honey, mustard, and cloves.

Cooking the Ham in a Saucepan

To cook the ham in a saucepan, follow these steps:

• Place the ham in the saucepan: Place the ham in a large saucepan that is deep enough to hold it.
• Add liquid: Add enough liquid to the saucepan to cover the ham by about one inch. You can use water, broth, or a combination of both.
• Bring to a boil: Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat.
• Reduce heat and simmer: Once the liquid is boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for the appropriate amount of time, depending on the size and type of ham.
• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. The ham is done when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Remove from heat and let rest: Once the ham is done, remove it from the heat and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Glazing the Ham (Optional)

For a sweet and shiny ham, you can glaze it before serving. To make a glaze, combine brown sugar, honey, and mustard in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Brush the glaze over the ham and return it to the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is set and bubbly.

Carving the Ham

To carve the ham, use a sharp knife to cut along the bone. Remove the bone and slice the ham into thin slices.

Serving the Ham

Serve the ham with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fruit salad.

Tips for Cooking Ham in a Saucepan

• Use a large enough saucepan: The saucepan should be deep enough to hold the ham and allow it to be submerged in liquid.
• Don’t overcook the ham: Overcooking will make the ham dry and tough.
• Let the ham rest: Allowing the ham to rest before carving will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
• Add vegetables to the saucepan: You can add vegetables such as carrots, onions, and celery to the saucepan with the ham for extra flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the ham is cooked to the correct internal temperature.

Variations

There are many ways to vary the flavor of ham cooked in a saucepan. Here are a few ideas:

• Add spices: Add spices such as cloves, cinnamon, or nutmeg to the cooking liquid for extra flavor.
• Use different liquids: Instead of water or broth, you can use fruit juices, beer, or wine as the cooking liquid.
• Make a honey-mustard glaze: Combine honey and mustard to make a sweet and tangy glaze for the ham.
• Add pineapple: Add pineapple chunks or slices to the saucepan with the ham for a tropical twist.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. How long does it take to cook ham in a saucepan?

The cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of ham. As a general rule, allow 15-20 minutes per pound for whole or half hams and 10-15 minutes per pound for ham steaks.

2. What is the best way to season ham?

There are many ways to season ham, but some of the most popular options include brown sugar, honey, mustard, and cloves. You can also add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to taste.

3. Can I cook ham in a saucepan without liquid?

It is not recommended to cook ham in a saucepan without liquid, as the ham will dry out and burn.

4. What are some good side dishes to serve with ham?

Some good side dishes to serve with ham include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and fruit salad. You can also serve ham with bread rolls or cornbread.

5. Can I freeze cooked ham?

Yes, you can freeze cooked ham for up to 2 months. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat the ham, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.