When it comes to selecting and storing a holiday-worthy ham, there are important factors to consider in order to ensure a delicious and satisfying main course for your special occasion. In this comprehensive guide, the author provides valuable insight on different types of hams, such as bone-in and boneless, as well as country hams. The article covers the selection process, including the advantages of bone-in hams and the convenience of spiral-sliced options. Additionally, it provides essential storage information, such as refrigeration and freezing guidelines. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this article is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their holiday feast with a perfectly selected and stored ham.
How to Select and Store a Holiday-Worthy Ham
When it comes to selecting and storing a ham for a holiday meal, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Whether you’re looking for a bone-in ham or a boneless ham, it’s essential to choose the right type and store it properly to ensure a delicious and safe meal. This comprehensive article will guide you through the process of selecting and storing a holiday-worthy ham.
About Ham
Before diving into the details of selecting and storing a ham, it’s important to understand what exactly ham is. Ham is the back leg of a pig that has been brined and cooked. In the United States, hams are typically labeled as “ready to serve” or “ready to eat,” indicating that they are fully cooked and can be enjoyed without further preparation. Fresh hams, on the other hand, are unsalted and uncured hog legs that require curing and cooking. For the purpose of selecting and storing a ham, it’s best to focus on the “ready to serve” or “ready to eat” variety.
Selecting Bone-In Ham
Bone-in hams offer several advantages over boneless hams. They tend to have more moisture and flavor due to the presence of the bone, which is typically the thigh bone along with part of the pelvic bone. When selecting a bone-in ham, you have the option of choosing between a whole ham or a half ham. A whole ham can serve up to 20 people, while a half ham can serve up to 10 people. The half ham is available in two options: the top or “butt” half, which is leaner and more tender, and the bottom or “shank” half, which is tougher and fattier but offers more flavor. If you prefer easier slicing, you can also opt for a semi-boneless ham, which includes only the thigh bone and excludes the pelvic bone. Another convenient option is a spiral-sliced ham, which is pre-sliced, making it quick and easy to serve.
Storing Bone-In Ham
After selecting a bone-in ham, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its quality and ensure food safety. Bone-in hams should be refrigerated in their original packaging for up to a week. If you have any leftovers, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days before serving, freezing, or discarding them. If you decide to freeze a bone-in ham, it can be stored for up to three months, although there may be a loss of quality due to freezing. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the bone of a ham can be used to make flavorful ham stock, so be sure to save it for future use.
Selecting Boneless Ham
Boneless hams come in two main types: foil-wrapped or plastic-wrapped and canned. Foil-wrapped or plastic-wrapped boneless hams are oval-shaped sections of ham that have been removed from the bone. They are available both sliced and unsliced, making them a versatile choice for main courses, sandwiches, or cold-cut platters. Canned hams, on the other hand, are made from smaller pieces of ham that are pressed together and molded into shape. These hams are typically used in deli meats or as chopped ingredients in other dishes. When selecting a boneless ham, consider its suitability for your intended use.
Storing Boneless Ham
The storage requirements for boneless hams vary depending on the type. Canned hams are shelf-stable and can be stored in a cool cupboard or cellar for up to a year. However, it’s recommended to refrigerate them for peace of mind. Foil-wrapped or plastic-wrapped boneless hams should be refrigerated and can be stored for up to a week before serving or freezing. If you choose to freeze a boneless ham, it can be stored for up to a month. It’s important to follow the storage instructions on the package of the ham you purchase and use your common cooking sense to ensure proper storage.
Country Hams
In addition to bone-in and boneless hams, there is another type of ham known as country ham. Country hams are salt-cured and air-dried but not cooked. They are traditionally meant to be stored at room temperature for up to two months, although the USDA recommends refrigerating them. Country hams are less common and may not be the typical choice for a holiday meal. If you do purchase a country ham, it can be frozen for up to a month, but be aware that there may be a loss of quality.
In conclusion, selecting and storing a holiday-worthy ham requires attention to detail and proper understanding of the different types of hams available. Whether you choose a bone-in ham or a boneless ham, it’s essential to consider factors such as taste, convenience, and storage requirements. By following the storage guidelines provided for each type of ham, you can ensure a delicious and safe holiday meal that will impress your guests.
