How to Cook a Whole Ham on the Bone: A Comprehensive Guide

Cooking a whole ham on the bone can be a delightful centerpiece for any meal. This guide will walk you through the process from start to finish, ensuring your ham is both delicious and perfectly cooked. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, this step-by-step recipe is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

1 whole ham on the bone (approximately 8-12 pounds) Water or stock for the roasting pan Optional glaze: Honey, brown sugar, mustard, or a combination

Equipment

A roasting pan A meat thermometer Aluminum foil A basting brush (if using glaze)

Instructions

Preparation

Thaw the Ham: If your ham is frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for several days. A general rule is 4-6 hours of thawing time per pound. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

Scooping the Ham

Score the Ham: Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to penetrate and adds a nice appearance.

Placing the Ham in the Roasting Pan

Place in Roasting Pan: Place the ham cut side down in a large roasting pan. Add a cup or two of water or stock to the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist during cooking.

Cooking the Ham

Cooking Time: Bake the ham for about 15-18 minutes per pound. For example, a 10-pound ham would take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) if fully cooked or 160°F (71°C) if it's raw.

Adding Glaze (Optional)

Apply Glaze: If you want to add a glaze, apply it during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. Brush the glaze over the ham and return it to the oven uncovered. This will create a nice caramelized crust.

Resting the Ham

Rest the Ham: Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Carving the Ham

Carving: Use a sharp knife to carve the ham, slicing against the grain for the best texture. Serve with your choice of sides.

Tips

Flavoring: You can also add herbs, spices, or aromatics like garlic or onions to the water in the roasting pan for additional flavor. Storage: Leftover ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Enjoy your deliciously cooked ham!