How To Smoke Fully Cooked Spiral Ham In A Char-Broil Smoker

Smoking a fully cooked spiral ham in a Char-Broil smoker is a delicious way to infuse rich, smoky flavor into this already flavorful cut of meat. Whether you're hosting a special occasion or simply craving a mouthwatering ham, using a smoker can take your culinary skills to the next level. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve juicy, flavorful results.

Preparing the Ham

Before you begin the smoking process, it’s important to properly prepare the ham. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Selecting the Ham: Choose a fully cooked spiral ham that fits in your smoker and is of high quality.

2. Thawing the Ham: If the ham is frozen, ensure that it is completely thawed before smoking. Thawing in the refrigerator is the safest method to avoid bacterial growth.

3. Preparing the Smoker: Preheat your Char-Broil smoker to a temperature of 225-250°F (107-121°C). Use either wood chunks or wood chips for smoking. Hickory, apple, or cherry wood are popular choices for smoking ham.

Seasoning the Ham

Seasoning the ham is an essential step in enhancing its flavor. Here’s how to do it:

1. Glazing the Ham: Apply a glaze or seasoning to the ham to add flavor and help the smoke adhere to the surface.

2. Adding Spices: Consider adding a dry rub or spices to the surface of the ham for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Letting it Rest: Allow the ham to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the smoker. This helps the flavors to meld and the meat to cook more evenly.

Smoking the Ham

Now it’s time to smoke the ham to perfection. Follow these steps for optimal results:

1. Placing the Ham in the Smoker: Once the smoker is preheated, carefully place the seasoned ham on the cooking grate.

2. Monitoring the Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature of 225-250°F (107-121°C) throughout the smoking process. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach 140°F (60°C) for serving.

3. Adding Wood Chips: Periodically add wood chips to the smoker to maintain a steady flow of smoke.

4. Allowing Ample Time: Smoking a fully cooked spiral ham typically takes 2-3 hours. However, the exact time may vary based on the size of the ham and the smoker's temperature.

Resting and Serving

Once the ham has reached the desired internal temperature, it’s time to remove it from the smoker and let it rest. Here’s what to do:

1. Resting the Ham: Allow the smoked ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat.

2. Carving and Serving: Carve the ham into slices and serve it alongside your favorite sides and accompaniments. Whether it's for a holiday feast or a casual gathering, your smoked spiral ham is sure to be a hit.

In conclusion, smoking a fully cooked spiral ham in a Char-Broil smoker is a rewarding culinary experience that yields delicious, smoky flavors. By following these simple steps, you can elevate the flavor of your ham and impress your guests with your smoking prowess. So fire up your smoker and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering smoked ham that will leave everyone craving for more!