Cooking a Delicious Shank Ham in the Oven
Are you ready to elevate your culinary skills and impress your friends and family with a mouthwatering shank ham? Look no further! In this guide, we will show you the step-by-step process to cook a delectable shank ham in the oven. Get ready for a savory journey of flavors!
Ingredients:
- 1 shank ham (approximately 5-7 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1 cup of pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup of maple syrup
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the shank ham from its packaging and place it on a roasting rack in a large baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves to create a glaze.
- Brush the glaze evenly over the surface of the shank ham, ensuring that it is fully coated.
- Pour the pineapple juice and maple syrup into the bottom of the baking dish to create a flavorful bath for the ham.
- Cover the shank ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and cook the ham for approximately 20 minutes per pound. For example, if your shank ham weighs 6 pounds, it will need to cook for about 2 hours.
- Every 30 minutes, baste the shank ham with the juices from the bottom of the baking dish to keep it moist and flavorful.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the ham to develop a beautiful golden glaze.
- To ensure the shank ham is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the shank ham from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Now that your shank ham is perfectly cooked, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Serve it with your favorite side dishes such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or creamy macaroni and cheese. Don’t forget to savor the succulent flavors of the ham and relish in the satisfaction of creating a memorable meal.
So, the next time you want to impress your loved ones with a delectable ham dish, remember this simple guide on cooking a shank ham in the oven. Your taste buds will thank you!
Share your tips and techniques for cooking a shank ham in the oven in the Cooking Techniques forum.
FAQ:
What is a shank ham and how is it different from other hams?
A shank ham refers to a specific cut of pork that comes from the lower portion of the pig’s leg. It is distinct from other hams because it contains the femur bone and has a higher proportion of connective tissue, resulting in a flavorful and slightly tougher meat.
Do I need to prepare the shank ham before cooking it in the oven?
Most shank hams available in the market are pre-cooked and only require reheating. However, it is essential to read the packaging or check with your butcher to determine if the ham needs any pre-cooking preparation. If it is labeled as “fully cooked” or “ready to eat,” then it can go directly into the oven.
How long should I cook a shank ham in the oven?
The cooking time for a shank ham depends on its size and whether it is pre-cooked or not. As a general guideline, for pre-cooked shank hams, bake them at 325°F (163°C) for 15-20 minutes per pound. For uncooked shank hams, it is recommended to bake them at the same temperature for 20-25 minutes per pound.
How do I prepare the shank ham for baking?
Before placing the shank ham in the oven, remove any packaging and score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze and flavors penetrate the meat. Additionally, you can choose to stud the ham with cloves or season it with spices or a glaze of your choice for added flavor.
Should I cover the shank ham while baking in the oven?
It is necessary to cover the shank ham loosely with aluminum foil during the initial part of the cooking process to prevent it from drying out. This will help the ham retain its moisture and tenderness. In the last 15-30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the surface to caramelize and develop a beautiful crust.
How can I tell if the shank ham is cooked thoroughly?
To ensure that the shank ham is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked hams and 145°F (63°C) for uncooked hams. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding contact with the bone.
Do I need to let the shank ham rest before serving?
It is advisable to let the shank ham rest for about 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a tender and succulent texture. Use this time to prepare any additional side dishes or garnishes before carving and serving the ham.
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