How to Cook Christmas Ham: A Delicious Guide by Interhampers Australia

Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate this festive season than with a succulent, mouth-watering glazed ham as the centrepiece of your holiday feast? At Interhampers Australia, we understand the importance of creating cherished memories with your loved ones during this special time of the year. That's why we're here to guide you through the process of cooking the perfect glazed Christmas ham. With our helpful tips, you'll serve a ham so delicious your guests will be asking for seconds.

1. Choosing the Right Ham

The first step in preparing a delectable Christmas ham is selecting the right ham. You have two main options: a bone-in ham or a boneless ham. A bone-in ham is known for its rich, traditional flavour, while a boneless ham is more convenient and easier to carve. Whichever you select it's essential to choose a high-quality ham.

2. Preparing the Ham

Once you've chosen your ham, it's time to prepare it for cooking. Start by preheating your oven to the recommended temperature, typically around 325°F (163°C). Before placing the ham in the oven, trim any excess fat with a sharp knife to create a crisscross pattern. This will not only enhance the presentation but also allow the glaze to penetrate the meat, giving it a delicious flavour.

3. Glazing the Ham

The glaze is where you can get creative and add a personal touch to your Christmas ham. There are numerous recipes to choose from for Christmas ham glaze, but some popular options include honey and mustard, brown sugar and pineapple, or a combination of maple syrup and cloves. Apply the glaze generously over the scored ham, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

4. Baking the Ham

Once the ham is properly glazed, place it in the preheated oven. Cooking times will vary depending on the size of your ham, so be sure to check the packaging or recipe for guidance. A general rule of thumb is to cook the ham for about 15-20 minutes per pound (450g) until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Be sure to baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavourful.

5. Resting and Carving the Ham

After removing the ham from the oven, allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy ham. When you're ready to carve, use a sharp knife to slice the ham against the grain for the best texture and flavour.

6. Serving Your Christmas Ham

Presentation is key when serving your Christmas ham. Arrange the slices on a platter and garnish with herbs, fruits, or other decorative elements to add a festive touch. Be sure to have extra glaze on hand for those who want to drizzle a bit more over their serving.

7. Sides and Accompaniments

To complement your Christmas ham, consider serving a variety of sides and accompaniments such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and fresh dinner rolls. These sides will complete your holiday feast and make it a memorable culinary experience.

8. Christmas Ham Leftovers

Don't let any leftovers go to waste! Christmas ham leftovers can be used in a variety of delicious dishes, from ham and cheese quiches to ham and pea soup. Get creative with your leftovers to enjoy the flavours of Christmas for days to come.

We hope this guide has inspired you to embark on your culinary adventure, and we wish you and your loved ones a joyous and delicious holiday season. If you're looking to elevate your Christmas experience even further, consider exploring our gift hampers. Merry Christmas!