How To Smoke Cooked Spiral Ham

Smoking a Delicious Spiral Ham

Smoking a cooked spiral ham is a fantastic way to add a depth of flavor to this already delicious cut of meat. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, smoking a spiral ham can take your meal to the next level. Here’s a guide on how to smoke a cooked spiral ham to perfection.

Preparation

Before you begin smoking your spiral ham, it’s important to prepare it properly to ensure a mouthwatering result. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cooked spiral ham
• Wood chips or chunks (hickory, apple, or cherry wood work well)
• Aluminum foil
• Smoker or grill
• Meat thermometer

Smoking Process

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to start smoking your spiral ham. Follow these steps for a delectable outcome:

1. Preheat the smoker: If you’re using a smoker, preheat it to a temperature of 225°F (107°C). If you’re using a grill, set it up for indirect cooking at the same temperature.
2. Prepare the wood: Soak the wood chips or chunks in water for about 30 minutes. This will help them produce a flavorful smoke.
3. Prepare the ham: Remove the spiral ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it on a large piece of aluminum foil.
4. Smoke the ham: Once the smoker or grill is ready, place the ham directly on the grates or in a disposable aluminum pan. Add a handful of the soaked wood chips or chunks to the smoker or grill to create smoke.
5. Monitor the temperature: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, making sure not to touch the bone. Smoke the ham until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), which should take approximately 2-3 hours.
6. Rest and serve: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the smoker or grill and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier ham.

Flavor Variations

While the natural smoky flavor of the wood will impart a delicious taste to your spiral ham, you can also experiment with different flavor profiles by using flavored wood chips or adding a glaze during the smoking process. Some popular glaze options include:

• Maple glaze
• Pineapple brown sugar glaze
• Honey mustard glaze

Simply brush the glaze onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of smoking for an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Smoking a cooked spiral ham is a wonderful way to infuse it with a rich, smoky flavor that will have your guests coming back for seconds. With the right preparation and a bit of patience, you can achieve a perfectly smoked spiral ham that’s sure to impress. So fire up your smoker or grill, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering ham that’s perfect for any occasion.