Cooking a ham in Coke might sound unusual, but it’s a delicious way to create a tender, flavorful dish with a unique sweet glaze that will impress your family and friends. This method combines the rich, salty flavor of ham with the caramelized sweetness of cola, resulting in a moist and mouthwatering meal. If you’ve been wondering how do you cook a ham in coke, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step with tips for the perfect ham every time.
Why Cook Ham in Coke?
Using Coke to cook ham is more than just a quirky idea-it’s a technique that tenderizes the meat while infusing it with a subtle sweetness and caramel notes. The acidity in the soda helps break down the ham’s fibers, making it juicy and easy to slice. Plus, the sugars in Coke create a beautiful glaze when baked, giving the ham a shiny, flavorful crust that’s hard to resist.
What You’ll Need
– A whole ham or gammon joint (about 4-6 pounds works well)
– 2 to 4 cups of regular Coke (not diet)
– Brown sugar
– Dijon mustard
– Optional spices: cloves, cinnamon, star anise, or ginger for extra flavor
– Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Ham in Coke
1. Prepare the Ham
If your ham is very salty or cured, start by soaking it in cold water for a few hours or overnight to remove excess salt. For milder hams, you can skip this step. Place the ham in a large pot or slow cooker.
2. Add the Coke and Aromatics
Pour enough Coke over the ham to cover it completely. You can add quartered onions, star anise, or cinnamon sticks to the pot for extra aroma and flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot loosely and let the ham cook gently for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and cooked through. For slow cookers, set on low for 4-5 hours.
3. Remove and Cool
Once cooked, carefully take the ham out of the liquid and let it cool slightly so you can handle it safely. Reserve the cooking liquid for basting or discard it if you prefer.
4. Prepare the Glaze
Mix together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a little bit of the Coke or honey to create a sticky glaze. If you like, add ground ginger or cinnamon for a spiced touch.
5. Score and Clove the Ham (Optional)
Remove the skin from the ham, leaving a thin layer of fat. Score the fat in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife and stud each diamond with a clove for a classic look and extra flavor.
6. Glaze and Bake
Place the ham in a roasting pan lined with foil. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure it gets into the scored cuts. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing. The result is a beautifully glazed ham with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Tips for the Best Coke Ham
– Use regular Coke, not diet: The sugar content is essential for caramelization and flavor.
– Don’t rush the simmer: Slow cooking allows the ham to absorb the flavors and become tender.
– Experiment with spices: Adding cloves, cinnamon, or star anise during cooking or in the glaze can elevate the flavor profile.
– Cover tightly while baking: This helps keep the ham moist and ensures the glaze sets nicely.
– Baste often: This keeps the ham juicy and enhances the glaze’s gloss.
Variations to Try
– Maple mustard glaze: Mix maple syrup with mustard and brown sugar for a rich, sticky finish.
– Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a subtle heat.
– Slow cooker method: For hands-off cooking, use a slow cooker with Coke and spices, then finish with a glaze in the oven.
Cooking ham in Coke is a simple yet impressive way to prepare a holiday centerpiece or a comforting family dinner. The sweet and savory combination makes every bite a treat, and the process is straightforward enough for cooks of all levels.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked, tender ham with a delicious cola glaze that’s sure to become a favorite recipe in your kitchen!