How To Smoke Sugar Cured Country Ham

Smoking Sugar Cured Country Ham: A Delicious Tradition

Smoking sugar cured country ham is a time-honored tradition that results in a rich, savory flavor that is hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, smoking a sugar cured country ham is a rewarding and delicious experience that will impress your friends and family. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve that perfect smoky flavor and tender texture.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients and equipment:

• 1 sugar cured country ham
• Smoker or grill
• Wood chips or chunks (hickory, apple, or cherry wood work well)
• Charcoal
• Meat thermometer
• Butcher’s twine

Preparing the Ham

Start by soaking the ham in cold water for at least 24 hours to remove excess salt. Once soaked, pat the ham dry with paper towels and then truss it with butcher’s twine to ensure even cooking.

Setting Up the Smoker

Prepare your smoker or grill for indirect heat cooking. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to one side and place a drip pan filled with water on the other side. This will create a moist environment for the ham to cook in. Preheat the smoker to a temperature of 225°F to 250°F.

Adding Smoke Flavor

Once the smoker is at the right temperature, add the wood chips or chunks to the coals. Hickory, apple, or cherry wood will impart a delicious smoky flavor to the ham. Place the ham on the grill grates, close the lid, and let the smoking process begin.

Monitoring the Temperature

It’s important to monitor the temperature of the smoker throughout the cooking process. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the ham reaches 160°F. This will ensure that the ham is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Letting It Rest

Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful ham.

Serving Suggestions

Sugar cured country ham is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether served as the centerpiece of a holiday feast or sliced thin for sandwiches, the smoky flavor and tender texture will be a hit with your guests.

Now that you know how to smoke sugar cured country ham, it’s time to fire up the smoker and get cooking. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering ham that will have everyone coming back for seconds.