Canned ham is a convenient and tasty option that often gets overlooked. Whether you have a small 5-pound can or a larger 10-pound one, cooking canned ham can be easy and rewarding with the right approach. This guide will walk you through how to cook canned ham perfectly, including tips for glazing and serving ideas that will make your meal shine.
What Is Canned Ham?
Canned ham is fully cooked ham that comes sealed in a can, making it shelf-stable and easy to store. It’s already cooked, so your goal is to heat it thoroughly and add flavor through baking and glazing. The texture is tender, and it pairs wonderfully with sweet and savory glazes.
Preparing Your Canned Ham
Step 1: Remove the Ham from the Can
Carefully open the can and remove the ham. Some canned hams come with a layer of gelatin or fat on top-feel free to remove this before cooking for a cleaner flavor and better glaze adherence.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham to heat evenly without drying out.
Step 3: Place the Ham Fat Side Up
Place the ham on a shallow roasting pan or a rack inside a roasting pan, fat side up. This positioning helps baste the ham naturally as the fat melts during cooking.
How Long to Cook Canned Ham?
Bake the ham for about 12 to 15 minutes per pound. For a 5-pound ham, this means roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F to 150°F (60°C to 65°C) for safe and optimal warmth.
Adding Flavor: The Glaze
A glaze is essential for turning canned ham from simple to spectacular. Here’s a classic glaze recipe and how to apply it:
Classic Brown Sugar and Honey Glaze
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Optional: pineapple slices and maraschino cherries for decoration
How to apply:
- Mix the brown sugar and honey until smooth.
- Score the ham’s surface lightly in a diamond pattern to help the glaze soak in.
- Spread a thin layer of glaze over the ham.
- Arrange pineapple slices and cherries on top, securing with toothpicks if needed.
- Pour the remaining glaze over the fruit and ham.
Bake the ham, basting with the glaze every 15 to 20 minutes, until the ham is heated through and the glaze is caramelized but not burnt.
Alternative Glaze Ideas
– Cherry sauce made from cherry juice, orange juice, sugar, and cloves can be cooked and brushed on for a tangy finish.
– A mixture of mustard, cider vinegar, ground cloves, and brown sugar offers a tangy, spicy glaze.
Tips for Perfect Baked Canned Ham
– Baste often: Use the pan drippings or glaze to baste the ham every 15-20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
– Cover if browning too fast: If the edges start to brown too much, tent the ham loosely with foil to prevent burning.
– Let it rest: After baking, let the ham rest for about 20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
Canned ham is versatile and pairs well with many sides:
– Serve with pineapple slices and cherries for a classic look and taste.
– Try it alongside rice pilaf or buttery mashed potatoes.
– Use leftover ham in fried rice, ham and eggs, or ham sandwiches.
– For a fun appetizer, cut the ham into bite-sized pieces and serve with mustard or raisin sauce.
Quick Recipe Recap
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Remove ham from can and place fat side up in a roasting pan.
- Score ham surface and apply glaze.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, basting regularly.
- Let rest before slicing and serving.
Canned ham is a convenient, flavorful option that can be transformed into a delicious meal with simple steps and a tasty glaze.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked canned ham!
Canned ham is easy to prepare and makes a delightful meal with minimal effort. With a simple glaze and careful baking, you can enjoy a juicy, flavorful ham any time.