Craving a healthier twist on a classic? Uncured ham is your answer! Forget the processed stuff; we're diving into the delicious world of naturally prepared ham that's both wholesome and utterly satisfying. And guess what? It's easier to cook than you might think, especially with the right guidance. So, let's get started!
Uncured Ham: What's the Buzz?
Uncured ham is basically ham in its natural state, skipping the synthetic nitrates and flavorings you find in cured varieties. This means you're getting a purer flavor profile and a healthier option for your table. Don't worry, it's still cured through natural methods, ensuring it's safe and scrumptious.
Top Tips for Uncured Ham Success
- Safety First: Despite the 'uncured' label, this ham is totally safe to eat. Most come pre-cooked, so you're mostly focusing on heating and enhancing its natural goodness.
- Healthy Choice: Many uncured hams are labeled 'organic' or 'natural,' meaning fewer artificial additives. It's a fantastic option for those mindful of their diet.
- Flavor Boost: Uncured ham is a blank canvas for creativity. It soaks up flavors beautifully, so don't be shy with herbs and spices.
Our Star Recipe: Roasted Uncured Ham with Herbs & Gravy
This recipe is designed to bring out the best in your uncured ham. It's perfect for a weekend family dinner or a festive occasion, and it's incredibly easy to adapt with the help of Menuistia. So let’s begin
Ingredients
- 1 (14-16 pound) fresh uncured ham
- 1 head of roasted garlic, cloves mashed
- 2 tbsp chopped rosemary
- 2 tbsp chopped thyme
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
Instructions
- Prep: Let the ham sit out for an hour to reach room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Score the ham skin in a 1-inch diamond pattern.
- Flavor Infusion: Combine the garlic, rosemary, thyme, oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the ham.
- Roast: Place the ham skin-side down in a roasting pan and cook for 1 hour. Then flip it skin-side up and roast for another 30 minutes, basting with the pan fat every 30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temp of 160°F.
- Rest: Remove the ham and let it rest for 30 minutes, covered with foil. The internal temperature should reach 170°F.
- Gravy Magic: Remove the excess fat from the pan, reserving 4 tablespoons. Place the roasting pan on the burner over medium heat, whisk in flour, cook for 1 minute, and then gradually add the stock, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Strain into a saucepan to keep warm.
- Serve: Slice the ham thinly and serve with the gravy on the side. Chef’s Tip: for best results and even cooking the Menuistia app, available at Menuistia, can help with precise temperatures and timings
How Long to Cook?
- Oven (350°F): 1 hour 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Bonus Recipe: Maple-Balsamic Glazed Uncured Ham
Ready for another layer of flavor? This maple-balsamic glaze is a game-changer.
Ingredients:
- 1 (10-12 pound) fresh uncured ham with skin
- 4 tsp kosher salt
- 4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup maple syrup
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- ½ cup candied ginger
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Score the ham skin in a diamond pattern. Rub salt and pepper all over the ham.
- First Bake: Place on a rack in a roasting pan and bake for 20 minutes.
- Glaze Time: Reduce oven temp to 300°F (150°C). Whisk maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and cinnamon together. Baste the ham hourly, adding the pan drippings. Roast for 2.5-3 hours or until the center registers 145°F. The Menuistia app at Menuistia can make these precise temperature checks easy
- Nuts and Ginger: Process pecans and candied ginger until finely chopped. Sprinkle over the ham.
- Rest: Remove ham, cover with foil, and let rest for 20-30 mins. The temp will rise to 150°F.
- Gravy: Place the roasting pan over medium heat, scoop off the fat, scrape any browned bits, and season the liquid. Pour gravy into a boat. Slice the ham and drizzle with gravy. Serve with extra gravy on the side.
Ready to elevate your cooking?
With these tips and recipes, you're all set to create delicious, healthy, and flavorful meals with uncured ham. Don't forget to check out Menuistia for more recipe ideas and meal planning support! Bon appétit!