How To Smoke Cured Spiral Cut Ham

Smoking Cured Spiral Cut Ham: A Delicious and Easy Guide

Smoking a cured spiral cut ham is a fantastic way to infuse it with delicious smoky flavor while keeping it juicy and tender. Whether you’re preparing for a special holiday meal or simply craving a mouthwatering ham, smoking it is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Follow this easy guide to achieve a perfectly smoked cured spiral cut ham that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What You’ll Need:

A cured spiral cut ham
Smoker or grill
Wood chips or chunks (hickory, apple, or cherry work well)
Aluminum foil
Meat thermometer
Basting brush
Glaze or sauce for finishing (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the Smoker

Before you begin, ensure that your smoker is clean and in good working condition. If you’re using a charcoal or wood smoker, light the charcoal and allow it to burn until it turns to embers. If you’re using a gas smoker, preheat it to the desired smoking temperature, typically around 225°F to 250°F (107°C to 121°C).

Step 2: Preparing the Ham

Remove the cured spiral cut ham from its packaging and place it on a clean surface. If the ham came with a glaze packet, set it aside for later use. Pat the ham dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

Step 3: Adding Smoke Flavor

Soak the wood chips or chunks in water for at least 30 minutes to an hour before using. Once soaked, place them in the smoker box or directly onto the coals. The smoke will infuse the ham with incredible flavor as it cooks.

Step 4: Smoking the Ham

Place the cured spiral cut ham on the smoker rack, making sure there is space between each slice to allow the smoke to penetrate. Close the smoker lid and let the ham smoke for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature throughout the smoking process.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

During the last 30 minutes of smoking, you can brush the ham with the glaze or sauce that came with it, or use your favorite homemade glaze for added flavor and a beautiful caramelized finish. This step is optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature and has developed a beautiful smoky exterior, carefully remove it from the smoker. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham.

Now that your smoked cured spiral cut ham is ready, slice it and serve it alongside your favorite sides and sauces. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a casual gathering, this delectable smoked ham is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!

With these simple steps, you can elevate a traditional cured spiral cut ham into a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion. The combination of smoky flavor and juicy, tender meat will have your guests asking for your secret recipe. So fire up the smoker, grab a beautiful ham, and get ready to impress with your newfound smoking skills!

Want to learn more about smoking cured spiral cut ham or share your own tips and tricks? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum!

FAQ:

What equipment do I need to smoke a cured spiral cut ham?

To smoke a cured spiral cut ham, you will need a smoker, wood chips or chunks for smoking, a meat thermometer, and aluminum foil.

How long does it take to smoke a cured spiral cut ham?

Smoking a cured spiral cut ham typically takes around 2 to 3 hours at a temperature of 225-250°F.

Should I glaze the cured spiral cut ham before smoking?

Yes, it’s a good idea to glaze the cured spiral cut ham before smoking. You can use a glaze made of brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices to add flavor and moisture to the ham.

How do I prepare the smoker for smoking a cured spiral cut ham?

First, preheat the smoker to 225-250°F. Then, add the wood chips or chunks to the smoker box or directly to the coals. Once the smoker is at the right temperature and the wood is producing smoke, you can place the cured spiral cut ham on the smoker rack.

What is the ideal internal temperature for a smoked cured spiral cut ham?

The ideal internal temperature for a smoked cured spiral cut ham is 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches this temperature before removing it from the smoker.

Should I let the smoked cured spiral cut ham rest before serving?

Yes, it’s best to let the smoked cured spiral cut ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and flavorful ham.

Was this page helpful?

Yes No