Cooking Toupie Ham to Perfection

Toupie ham, a pre-cooked and boneless ham, can be a delightful addition to any meal. This informative guide will walk you through the process of preparing and baking a toupie ham to perfection, ensuring a delicious and flavorful final product.

Ingredients Needed

Toupie ham Optional: Brown sugar Honey Mustard Spices for glazing (optional)

Preparation and Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Acclimate your oven to the right temperature by preheating it to 325°F (165°C).

Prepare the Ham

Step 1: Unwrap the Ham

Remove the packaging and any netting from the toupie ham.

Step 2: Score the Surface

If you want to enhance flavor penetration, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This step is optional but recommended.

Glaze (Optional)

To add a sweet and tangy taste, you can prepare a glaze. Mix together a mixture of 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, and 2 tablespoons of mustard. Apply this glaze over the ham, making sure it reaches the scored areas. For an extra touch, brush the ham with additional glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Place in Roasting Pan

Place the toupie ham in a roasting pan. Consider adding a small amount of water or broth to the bottom of the pan to maintain its moisture during cooking.

Cover and Bake

Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 15-18 minutes per pound. For a 3-pound ham, this equates to approximately 45-54 minutes.

Uncover for the Last 30 Minutes

In the final 30 minutes of baking, uncover the ham to achieve a nice caramelized finish. Brush with additional glaze if desired.

Check Temperature

Ensure that the ham is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).

Rest and Serve

Allow the ham to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicier and more flavorful final product.

Slice and Enjoy: Slice the ham and serve it warm. Toupie ham can be served on its own or as part of a larger meal. Enhance your meal with sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it in sandwiches or as part of a charcuterie board.

Alternative Method: Boiling

Toupie ham is pre-cooked and highly processed, so its primary purpose is to be heated up and flavorful additions can be added. You can either boil or simmer the ham, which reduces some of the salt that the ham was initially cured with, making it less salty for those who prefer a milder flavor.