How To Cook A Picnic Ham In The Oven

Having a picnic is a delightful way to enjoy the outdoors while enjoying delicious food. And what better centerpiece for your picnic spread than a perfectly cooked picnic ham? Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a flavorful ham, cooking it in the oven is a foolproof method that guarantees tender and juicy results. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to cook a picnic ham in the oven, so you can impress your guests or satisfy your own taste buds.

What Is a Picnic Ham?

First things first, let’s clarify what a picnic ham actually is. Also known as a shank ham, a picnic ham comes from the lower section of the pig’s leg. It typically contains a bone and has a slightly smaller size compared to a traditional whole ham. The picnic ham offers a rich, meaty flavor that is perfect for roasting in the oven.

Preparation and Seasoning

Before you start cooking your picnic ham, it’s important to prepare and season it properly to enhance its flavor and ensure the best results. Follow these steps:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to maintain a low and slow cooking temperature, allowing the ham to cook evenly and retain its juiciness.
Remove any packaging or wrapping from the ham and place it on a rack set inside a roasting pan, with the fatty side facing up. This will help the fat to baste the ham as it cooks.
Score the surface of the ham by making shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern. This will not only make it visually appealing but also allow the seasonings to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Brush the ham with a glaze or marinade of your choice. Popular options include honey and mustard, maple syrup, or a combination of brown sugar and spices. The glaze will add a sweet and savory flavor to the ham.
Season the ham with your favorite spices and herbs. A simple combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika works wonders, but feel free to get creative with your seasonings to suit your taste.

Cooking and Basting the Ham

Once your picnic ham is prepared and seasoned, it’s time to cook it to perfection:

Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the glaze. This will help prevent the glaze from burning and keep the ham moist throughout the cooking process.
Place the roasting pan with the ham in the preheated oven and cook according to the weight of the ham. As a general guideline, allow 18-20 minutes of cooking time per pound of ham.
Approximately halfway through the cooking time, remove the foil and baste the ham with the drippings from the pan. Basting will help enhance the flavor and keep the meat moist.
Continue cooking the ham, basting every 20-30 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender ham.

Serving Suggestions

Your deliciously cooked picnic ham is now ready to be enjoyed! Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your picnic feast:

Slice the ham into thin or thick slices, depending on your preference, and arrange them on a platter.
Pair the ham with your favorite condiments, such as mustard, cranberry sauce, or a tangy barbecue sauce.
Serve the ham alongside freshly baked rolls or bread for making sandwiches.
Add some vibrant and refreshing sides like a mixed green salad, potato salad, or grilled vegetables.
Don’t forget to bring along some refreshing beverages, like lemonade or iced tea, to complete your picnic experience.

So there you have it—the secret to cooking a delectable picnic ham in the oven. With a little preparation and a lot of love, you can create a mouthwatering centerpiece for your picnic outing or any other gathering. Follow these steps, get creative with your seasonings, and enjoy the delicious rewards that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Happy cooking and happy picnic-ing!

More Delicious Picnic Ham Recipes to Try

Now that you've mastered cooking a picnic ham in the oven, why not experiment with some delicious variations to enhance your culinary repertoire? From the sweet and sticky Sweet Honey Glaze Adventure to the bold and savory Bold Bourbon Indulgence, there's a flavor profile to suit every palate. We recommend trying the Classic Maple Clove Delight for a classic taste with a twist, or the Spicy Sriracha Twist for those who prefer a spicy kick. Each recipe utilizes the basic cooking method you've learned, while introducing unique ingredients that transform the humble picnic ham into a festive centerpiece.

Share your tips and techniques for cooking a picnic ham in the oven in the Cooking Techniques forum section.

FAQ:

Can I cook a picnic ham directly in the oven without any prep?

While you technically can cook a picnic ham directly in the oven without any additional preparation, it is recommended to add some flavors and enhance the taste by seasoning the ham before cooking.

How long should I cook a picnic ham in the oven?

The cooking time for a picnic ham in the oven depends on its size and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, you should cook the ham for approximately 15-18 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C).

Should I cover the picnic ham while cooking in the oven?

It is advisable to cover the picnic ham while cooking in the oven to prevent it from drying out. You can cover it with aluminum foil or use a roasting pan with a lid to retain moisture and ensure a juicy result.

What flavors can I add to enhance the taste of a picnic ham?

You can enhance the taste of a picnic ham by seasoning it with a variety of flavors. Some traditional choices include a glaze made of brown sugar, mustard, and spices, or a combination of honey, pineapple juice, and cloves. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your preferred flavor profile.

Can I baste the picnic ham while it cooks in the oven?

Basting the picnic ham with its juices or a glaze during the cooking process can help to add additional flavor and keep it moist. You can use a basting brush to apply the liquid over the ham every 30 minutes or so while it cooks.

What is the ideal internal temperature for cooking a picnic ham?

The ideal internal temperature for cooking a picnic ham is between 145°F (63°C) and 160°F (71°C). It is crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham reaches a safe temperature for consumption while remaining tender and juicy.

Can I carve and serve the picnic ham immediately after taking it out of the oven?

It is generally recommended to let the picnic ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more flavorful and tender.

How To Cook A Picnic Ham In The Oven