How To Cook Ham On Stove

Mastering the Art of Cooking Ham on the Stove

Gather around, food enthusiasts! Today we are embarking on a flavorful journey to master the art of cooking ham on the stove. Ham is a versatile and delicious meat that can be enjoyed year-round, whether it’s a holiday feast or a Sunday family dinner. The best part? You don’t need an oven to achieve mouthwatering results. Let’s dive right in!

Choose the Perfect Ham

Before we start cooking, it’s important to select the perfect ham for your stove-top adventure. There are various types of ham available, such as smoked, cured, or fresh. Smoked ham adds a distinct and savory flavor, while cured ham offers a salty and rich taste. Fresh ham provides a blank canvas for your seasonings and culinary creativity.

• Look for a ham with good marbling, as this will enhance its tenderness and juiciness.
• Consider the size of your ham, ensuring it fits comfortably in your pot or skillet.
• Check for any additional seasonings or glazes that may already be included with the ham.

Prepare and Season the Ham

Once you have selected your ham, it’s time to prepare and season it for cooking on the stove.

1. Remove the packaging and any netting surrounding the ham. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Score the surface of the ham with shallow cuts to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Decide on your choice of seasonings. Common options include a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, honey, or spices like cloves and cinnamon.
4. Massage the chosen seasonings onto the surface of the ham, ensuring an even distribution.

Cooking the Ham on the Stove

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – the cooking process! Remember to use a large pot or skillet with a tight-fitting lid to accommodate the size of your ham.

1. Place the ham in the pot or skillet, fat-side down, to allow it to render its flavorful juices.
2. Add a liquid to the pot, such as water, broth, apple cider, or a combination of these. This will keep the moisture intact and prevent the ham from drying out.
3. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
4. Cover the pot with the lid and let the ham cook for the recommended time based on its weight. To ensure the ham is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serving and Enjoying

Once your ham is perfectly cooked on the stove, it’s time to indulge in its juicy deliciousness.

• Remove the ham from the pot or skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Transfer the ham to a cutting board and carve it into thin or thick slices, depending on your preference.
• Serve the succulent ham slices alongside your favorite side dishes, such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking ham on the stove, you can impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. The stove-top method is a convenient and flavorful way to prepare this classic meat. So, get cooking and savor every bite of your homemade stove-cooked ham!