What To Know
- Here are a few of the best brands of ham to look for.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham is cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- By following the tips in this guide, you can find the best store bought ham for Thanksgiving and cook it to perfection.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. And no Thanksgiving feast is complete without a juicy, flavorful ham. But with so many different brands and styles of ham available at the grocery store, it can be hard to know which one to choose.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best store bought ham for Thanksgiving. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from the different types of ham to the best brands to look for.
Types of Ham
There are two main types of ham: wet-cured and dry-cured.
- Wet-cured hams are soaked in a brine solution for several days or weeks. This process helps to flavor the ham and make it more tender. Wet-cured hams are typically less expensive than dry-cured hams.
- Dry-cured hams are not soaked in a brine solution. Instead, they are rubbed with salt and spices and then hung to dry for several months. This process gives dry-cured hams a more intense flavor and a firmer texture. Dry-cured hams are typically more expensive than wet-cured hams.
Best Brands of Ham
Once you’ve decided which type of ham you want, it’s time to start shopping for a brand. Here are a few of the best brands of ham to look for:
- HoneyBaked Ham is a popular choice for Thanksgiving ham. Their hams are wet-cured and smoked, giving them a delicious flavor and a tender texture.
- Smithfield Ham is another popular choice for Thanksgiving ham. Their hams are dry-cured and smoked, giving them a more intense flavor and a firmer texture.
- Oscar Mayer Ham is a more affordable option for Thanksgiving ham. Their hams are wet-cured and smoked, giving them a good flavor and a tender texture.
How to Choose a Ham
When you’re choosing a ham, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Size: The size of the ham you need will depend on the number of people you’re serving. A good rule of thumb is to allow for 1/2 pound of ham per person.
- Type: As we discussed earlier, there are two main types of ham: wet-cured and dry-cured. Wet-cured hams are typically less expensive and have a more tender texture. Dry-cured hams have a more intense flavor and a firmer texture.
- Brand: There are many different brands of ham available at the grocery store. Some of the most popular brands include HoneyBaked Ham, Smithfield Ham, and Oscar Mayer Ham.
- Price: The price of ham can vary depending on the size, type, and brand. Be sure to compare prices before you buy.
How to Cook a Ham
Once you’ve chosen a ham, it’s time to cook it. Here are the steps on how to cook a ham:
1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan.
3. Add 1 cup of water to the roasting pan.
4. Cover the ham with aluminum foil.
5. Bake the ham for 1 hour per pound.
6. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Cooking a Ham
Here are a few tips for cooking a ham:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham is cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Baste the ham with the juices from the roasting pan every 30 minutes.
- Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the ham.
What to Serve with Ham
Ham is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with ham:
- Mashed potatoes
- Sweet potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Brussels sprouts
- Cranberry sauce
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. And no Thanksgiving feast is complete without a juicy, flavorful ham. By following the tips in this guide, you can find the best store bought ham for Thanksgiving and cook it to perfection.
FAQ
Q: What is the best type of ham for Thanksgiving?
A: The best type of ham for Thanksgiving is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer wet-cured hams because they are less expensive and have a more tender texture. Others prefer dry-cured hams because they have a more intense flavor and a firmer texture.
Q: What is the best brand of ham for Thanksgiving?
A: There are many different brands of ham available at the grocery store. Some of the most popular brands include HoneyBaked Ham, Smithfield Ham, and Oscar Mayer Ham. All of these brands offer high-quality hams that are perfect for Thanksgiving dinner.
Q: How do I cook a ham?
A: To cook a ham, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the ham in a roasting pan and add 1 cup of water. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour per pound. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
