How To Cook A Country Ham With Coke

Topics:
How To Cook A Country Ham With Coke

How To Cook A Country Ham With Coke

Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re going to take your cooking skills to the next level by exploring the art of cooking a delicious country ham with a unique twist – Coke! Yes, you read that right. This unconventional method infuses the ham with a sweet, caramelized flavor that will leave your taste buds craving for more. So, let’s dive right in and learn how to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 country ham
  • 2 liters of Coke (or any cola of your choice)
  • Water (enough to cover the ham)

Step 1: Preparation

Before we begin, make sure to have a large pot or Dutch oven that can accommodate the size of the ham. Now, let’s prepare the ham for cooking:

  1. Remove the packaging from the country ham.
  2. Rinse the ham under cold water to remove excess salt.
  3. Place the ham in the pot and add enough water to cover it.

Step 2: Cooking with Coke

Now comes the exciting part – cooking the country ham with Coke! Follow these steps to infuse the ham with a delightful sweetness:

  1. Pour the 2 liters of Coke into the pot, ensuring that the ham is fully submerged.
  2. Place the pot over high heat and bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
  3. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for around 20 minutes per pound of ham.
  4. Throughout the cooking process, periodically baste the ham with the Coke liquid to enhance the flavor and keep it moist.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help retain its juices and maximize the tenderness. Get ready to indulge in a heavenly culinary experience!

Country ham cooked with Coke is the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion or holiday gathering. Serve it as the star of your feast alongside traditional Southern sides like biscuits, collard greens, or macaroni and cheese for a truly memorable meal.

Now that you know the secret to cooking a delicious country ham with Coke, it’s time to put your culinary skills to the test. Enjoy the savory and slightly sweet flavors that this unique cooking method brings to the table. Impress your family and friends with this unexpected twist on a classic dish – they’ll be begging for your recipe in no time! Happy cooking!

Share your experience cooking a country ham with Coke in the Cooking Techniques forum and let us know how it turned out!
FAQ:
Can I use any type of ham for this recipe?
No, for this recipe, it is best to use a country ham. Country hams are typically salt-cured and have a distinct flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the Coke.
Can I use any brand of cola?
Yes, you can use any brand of cola for this recipe. However, it is recommended to use regular cola rather than diet or flavored varieties, as the flavor profile may differ.
Do I need to soak the ham before cooking?
Yes, it is important to soak the country ham before cooking to remove some of the excess saltiness. Soaking the ham in water for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours, is recommended.
How long should I cook the ham for?
The cooking time for a country ham with Coke can vary depending on the size of the ham. As a general rule, you should allow about 25 minutes of cooking time per pound of ham at a temperature of around 325°F (163°C).
Can I add any other ingredients to the cooking liquid?
While the recipe calls for just Coke as the cooking liquid, you can add other flavorings if desired. Some popular options include adding brown sugar, cloves, or even a splash of bourbon for a more complex flavor.
Should I cover the ham while cooking?
It is recommended to loosely cover the ham with foil while cooking to help retain moisture. However, during the last 30 minutes of cooking, you can remove the foil to allow the outside of the ham to crisp up.
How should I serve the cooked country ham?
Once the ham is cooked, you can slice it thinly and serve it as the centerpiece of a meal or use it in various recipes. Some popular serving suggestions include serving it with biscuits, in sandwiches, or as a part of a charcuterie board.

Was this page helpful?