How To Grill A Cured Ham

Grilling a cured ham is a delicious way to bring out its rich, savory flavors. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just looking to add some variety to your grilling repertoire, a perfectly grilled cured ham is sure to impress your guests. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of preparing and grilling a mouthwatering cured ham that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Choosing the Right Ham

Before you start grilling, it's important to select the right type of cured ham. A bone-in cured ham is ideal for grilling, as it will retain its moisture and flavor throughout the cooking process. Look for a ham that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat juicy and tender on the grill.

Preparing the Ham

Once you've chosen your ham, it's time to prepare it for the grill. Follow these steps to ensure your ham is ready for cooking:

Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
Score the surface of the ham with a sharp knife in a crisscross pattern. This will help the flavors of any glaze or seasoning penetrate the meat.
Apply your preferred glaze or seasoning to the surface of the ham. Popular options include a brown sugar and mustard glaze, a honey and pineapple glaze, or a simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Grilling the Ham

Now that your ham is prepped and ready to go, it's time to fire up the grill. Follow these steps to grill your cured ham to perfection:

Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 325°F to 350°F.
Place the ham on the grill, making sure it is positioned away from direct heat to prevent burning.
Cover the grill and allow the ham to cook for approximately 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
Rotate the ham occasionally to ensure even cooking and baste it with any remaining glaze or seasoning to add extra flavor.
Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled cured ham pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Consider serving it with:

Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes.
A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious juices from the ham.
A selection of mustards or chutneys for added flavor and complexity.

Conclusion

Grilling a cured ham is a fantastic way to elevate your outdoor cooking game and impress your friends and family. By following these simple steps for choosing, preparing, and grilling your ham, you'll be well on your way to serving up a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. So fire up the grill, grab a ham, and get ready to savor the incredible flavors of a perfectly grilled cured ham.

Share your tips and techniques for grilling a cured ham in the Cooking Techniques forum section.

FAQ:

What type of grill should I use to cook a cured ham?

You can use a charcoal or gas grill to cook a cured ham. Both types of grills will work well for this purpose. Just make sure the grill is preheated to the appropriate temperature before placing the ham on the grates.

Should I glaze the cured ham before grilling?

Yes, glazing the cured ham before grilling can add a delicious flavor and caramelized texture to the outside of the ham. You can use a variety of glazes, such as honey, brown sugar, mustard, or fruit preserves, to enhance the taste of the ham.

How long should I grill a cured ham?

The grilling time for a cured ham will depend on its size and thickness. As a general rule, you can grill a cured ham for about 10-15 minutes per pound, turning it occasionally to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham.

Should I use direct or indirect heat when grilling a cured ham?

It’s best to use indirect heat when grilling a cured ham. This means placing the ham on the grill away from the direct flames or heat source. This will allow the ham to cook through evenly without getting charred on the outside.

How can I add flavor to a grilled cured ham?

You can add flavor to a grilled cured ham by using wood chips or chunks to create smoke while grilling. Hickory, apple, or maple wood can impart delicious smoky flavors to the ham. Simply soak the wood in water for about 30 minutes before placing it on the coals or in a smoker box for a gas grill.

Should I let the grilled cured ham rest before serving?

Yes, it’s a good idea to let the grilled cured ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful ham. Cover the ham loosely with foil during the resting period.

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