What To Know
- Many hams come with a glaze, which can add a touch of sweetness or spice to the ham.
- Now that you know what to look for in a spiral ham, here are a few of our top picks for the best spiral hams for Easter.
- If you’re not sure how to cook a spiral ham, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a butcher or your local grocery store.
Easter is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. And what’s more Easter-y than a juicy, spiral-cut ham? If you’re looking for the best spiral ham for Easter, you’ve come to the right place.
What to Look for in a Spiral Ham
When choosing a spiral ham, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:
- Size: Hams come in a variety of sizes, so you’ll need to choose one that’s big enough to feed your guests. A good rule of thumb is to allow for about 1/2 pound of ham per person.
- Type: There are two main types of hams: bone-in and boneless. Bone-in hams have a more intense flavor, but they can be more difficult to carve. Boneless hams are easier to carve, but they may not have as much flavor.
- Cure: Hams can be cured in a variety of ways, including wet curing, dry curing, and smoking. Wet-cured hams are the most common type, and they have a mild, salty flavor. Dry-cured hams have a more intense flavor, and they are often smoked. Smoked hams have a rich, smoky flavor.
- Glaze: Many hams come with a glaze, which can add a touch of sweetness or spice to the ham. If you’re looking for a ham with a sweet glaze, look for one that contains honey or maple syrup. If you’re looking for a ham with a spicy glaze, look for one that contains brown sugar or mustard.
The Best Spiral Hams for Easter
Now that you know what to look for in a spiral ham, here are a few of our top picks for the best spiral hams for Easter:
- Honey Baked Ham: Honey Baked Ham is a classic for a reason. Their hams are wet-cured and glazed with a sweet honey glaze. They’re juicy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Smithfield Spiral Ham: Smithfield Spiral Ham is another great option for Easter. Their hams are dry-cured and smoked, giving them a rich, smoky flavor. They’re also boneless, making them easy to carve.
- Spiral Sliced Ham from Omaha Steaks: Omaha Steaks is known for their high-quality meats, and their spiral sliced ham is no exception. Their hams are wet-cured and glazed with a brown sugar glaze. They’re juicy, flavorful, and sure to impress your guests.
How to Cook a Spiral Ham
Once you’ve chosen your spiral ham, it’s time to cook it. Here are the steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the ham on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake the ham for 10-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.
How to Glaze a Spiral Ham
If you want to add a touch of sweetness or spice to your spiral ham, you can glaze it. Here’s how:
1. In a small bowl, combine your glaze ingredients.
2. Brush the glaze over the ham, making sure to get into all the crevices.
3. Bake the ham for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is set and bubbly.
How to Carve a Spiral Ham
Carving a spiral ham can be a little tricky, but it’s not impossible. Here are the steps:
1. Use a sharp knife to cut around the bone.
2. Once you’ve cut around the bone, use your fingers to gently pull the meat away from the bone.
3. Slice the meat into thin slices.
Tips for Choosing and Cooking the Best Spiral Ham for Easter
Here are a few tips to help you choose and cook the best spiral ham for Easter:
- When choosing a ham, look for one that is fresh and has a good amount of marbling.
- If you’re not sure how to cook a spiral ham, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a butcher or your local grocery store.
- Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the ham with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and rolls.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: What is the best way to reheat a spiral ham?
A: The best way to reheat a spiral ham is to place it in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: Can I freeze a spiral ham?
A: Yes, you can freeze a spiral ham for up to 2 months. To freeze the ham, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Q: How long will a spiral ham last in the refrigerator?
A: A spiral ham will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
