How To Smoke Cured Ham On An Electric Smoker

Smoking Cured Ham on an Electric Smoker: A Delicious and Easy Guide

Smoking cured ham on an electric smoker is a fantastic way to infuse rich, smoky flavor into this classic cut of meat. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner in the world of smoking, this guide will walk you through the process of preparing and smoking a mouthwatering cured ham on your electric smoker.

Choosing the Right Ham

Before you start smoking, it’s essential to select the right ham for the job. When it comes to smoking, a cured ham is the best choice. Look for a ham that has been cured with a flavorful blend of salt, sugar, and spices. This curing process not only helps preserve the meat but also adds depth and complexity to its flavor.

Preparing the Ham

Once you have your cured ham, it’s time to prepare it for smoking. Start by rinsing the ham under cold water to remove any excess salt from the curing process. Pat the ham dry with paper towels, and then let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while you prepare your smoker.

Setting Up Your Electric Smoker

Before you start smoking, it’s crucial to set up your electric smoker for the best results. Follow these steps to ensure your smoker is ready to go:

• Fill the smoker’s wood chip tray with your choice of wood chips. For ham, hickory or apple wood chips work exceptionally well.
• Preheat the smoker to a temperature of 225°F (107°C).
• Place a water-filled pan in the smoker to help maintain moisture during the smoking process.

Smoking the Ham

Now that your smoker is ready, it’s time to start smoking the ham. Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly smoked ham:

1. Place the cured ham on the smoker’s rack, making sure there is enough space around it for the smoke to circulate.
2. Close the smoker’s lid and let the ham smoke for approximately 3-4 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
3. Periodically check the wood chip tray and water pan, adding more wood chips or water as needed to maintain a steady level of smoke and moisture.

Resting and Serving

Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the smoker and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful end result.

When it’s time to serve, carve the smoked ham into thin slices and enjoy it as the star of a hearty meal or as a delicious addition to sandwiches and salads.

Smoking cured ham on an electric smoker is a rewarding and delicious experience that anyone can enjoy. With the right ham, proper preparation, and a well-maintained smoker, you can create mouthwatering smoked ham that will impress your family and friends. So fire up your electric smoker, follow these steps, and get ready to savor the incredible flavors of smoked cured ham.