Are you ready to make your holiday dinner the talk of the town with a succulent, delicious Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham?
Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a family gathering, knowing how long to cook Sam’s Choice spiral ham can be the key to a mouthwatering feast.
This guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to ensure your ham is not just cooked, but perfectly cooked. Let’s dive into the world of spiral ham cooking and make you the ham hero of your home.
How Long do you Cook a Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham
For cooking Sam’s Choice spiral cut ham, the rule of thumb is to cook at 325°F for 12-15 minutes per pound. So, for an 8-pound ham, you would cook it for about 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours.
About 30 minutes before it’s done, remove the foil, apply the glaze, and continue baking uncovered for the remainder of the time to achieve a nice, caramelized finish.
Remember, the ham is fully cooked already, so you’re just warming it through to an internal temperature of about 140°F.
Why Choose Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham?
Quality and Convenience
Sam’s Choice ham is known for its quality and comes pre-sliced, making it a breeze to serve.
Flavor
Each slice is packed with flavor, thanks to the spiral cut which allows for even cooking and glazing.
How to cook Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham?
Step
Preheat Your Oven – Set your oven to 325°F. This is crucial for even cooking of your spiral ham.
Prepare the Ham:
- Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan, cut side down.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil to keep it moist.
Cooking Time:
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes per pound. If you have an 8-pound ham, you’ll be looking at around 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours.
Glazing Magic:
- About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, you can apply the glaze. Sam’s Choice comes with its own glaze packet, but you can also make your own for a personal touch.
- Brush the glaze generously over the ham for that perfect, golden finish.
Resting Time:
- Once cooked, let your ham rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making every slice juicy and flavorful.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Overcooking: The ham is already cooked, so overdoing it can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is around 140°F.
- Not Using a Rack: Placing the ham directly in the pan can make it soggy. Use a rack to allow heat to circulate evenly.
Serving Suggestions:
Classic Sides
Pair your ham with mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or sweet potato soufflé for that traditional holiday feel.
Leftover Ideas
Ham isn’t just for the main meal! Think sandwiches, ham and cheese quiches, or even a hearty ham soup for the days after.
How to store Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham properly
Storing leftover Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham properly ensures you can enjoy it for days without compromising taste or safety. Here’s how to do it:
Immediate After-Cooking Steps
Cool Down
Allow the ham to cool down to room temperature. However, do not leave it out for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Remove from Bone
If you haven’t already, remove the ham from the bone. This will make storage easier and allow for better air circulation around the meat.
1. Short Term Storage (Refrigeration):
Airtight Containers
Place the ham slices or chunks in an airtight container. If using a Ziploc bag, try to push out as much air as possible before sealing.
Refrigerator
Store in the refrigerator immediately. Leftover ham can be kept in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.
Label
It’s helpful to label the container with the date you stored it so you can keep track of freshness.
2. Long Term Storage (Freezing):
Freezer Bags or Containers
For longer storage, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Portion the ham according to how much you might use in one go to avoid repeated thawing and refreezing.
Remove Air
If using bags, remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Vacuum sealing is ideal if you have the equipment.
Freeze
Ham can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months for best quality. Beyond that, while it’s still safe to eat, the texture and flavor might degrade.
Label
Always label with the date of freezing.
Thawing and Reheating Leftover Ham:
a) Thawing
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For quicker thawing, you can use the defrost function on your microwave, but eat immediately after thawing to prevent bacterial growth.
b) Reheating
Oven
Preheat to 325°F, place ham in a baking dish with a little water or broth, cover with foil, and heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Microwave
Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (vented), and heat on medium power. Stir or turn the ham occasionally for even heating.
Stovetop
For smaller portions, you can heat in a skillet with a bit of liquid to keep it moist.
Creative Uses for Leftovers
- Sandwiches: The classic leftover ham sandwich can be jazzed up with different breads, cheeses, and condiments.
- Soups: Add ham to pea soup, ham and potato soup, or any vegetable soup for flavor.
- Casseroles: Ham can be a great addition to breakfast casseroles, mac and cheese, or a quiche.
- Salads: Dice or slice ham for a hearty salad or pasta salad.
- Pizza or Omelets: Incorporate into homemade pizzas or omelets for breakfast or brunch.
Glazing techniques
Glazing a ham can transform it from a simple dish to a showstopping centerpiece. Here are some effective glazing techniques to ensure your Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham is both beautiful and delicious:
1. Brush and Bake Method
Process:
After the initial cooking phase, remove the ham from the oven. Brush the glaze over the top and sides of the ham, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the spiral cuts.
Return the ham to the oven uncovered for the last 30 minutes of baking. This technique allows the glaze to caramelize and seep into the meat.
Tips: Apply the glaze in multiple layers if you prefer a thicker coating. Wait for about 10 minutes between each application to let the glaze set.
2. Basting Technique:
Process
Similar to the brush method, but instead of applying the glaze once, you’ll baste the ham with the glaze every 10-15 minutes during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This ensures the ham stays moist and the glaze keeps building up in layers.
Tips: Use a baster or a spoon to scoop up glaze from the bottom of the pan where it has melted and pour it back over the ham.
3. Glaze and Foil Tent
Process
After glazing, cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the glaze from burning while allowing steam to escape. This method is excellent if you want a shiny, caramelized glaze without too much direct heat.
Tips: Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes if you want a bit more browning on top.
4. Double Glazing
Process
Apply a layer of glaze, bake for 10-15 minutes, then apply a second layer. This technique gives you a deeper, more complex flavor profile as the first glaze layer has time to set before adding more.
Tips: The first glaze can be lighter (like a simple sugar and juice mix), while the second can be more robust (adding spices or mustard for flavor).
5. Score and Glaze:
Process
Before glazing, score the surface of the ham with a knife to make criss-cross patterns or diamond shapes. This not only looks attractive but also helps the glaze penetrate deeper into the meat.
Tips: Keep the cuts shallow to avoid drying out the ham.
Glaze Ideas
- Classic Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice.
- Maple Glaze: Maple syrup, bourbon, apple cider, and a dash of cinnamon.
- Spicy Glaze: Mix your glaze with sriracha or chipotle for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Glaze: Combine orange or lemon zest with juice, sugar, and a touch of ginger.
General Tips:
- Temperature Control: Keep an eye on your oven’s temperature to ensure the glaze doesn’t burn.
- Glaze Thickness: If your glaze is too thick, thin it out with water or juice; if too thin, reduce it on the stove before applying.
- Resting: After glazing, let the ham rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the glaze to set and the flavors to meld with the meat.
Signs That Your Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham is Spoiled
1. Visual Signs:
- Look for gray, green, or blue hues in the meat. Fresh ham should be a consistent shade of pink with white fat.
- Any signs of mold, regardless of the type of ham, indicate spoilage.
- If the ham feels slimy or sticky to the touch, it’s a clear sign that it has gone bad.
2. Odor:
Ham should have a fresh, salty, or slightly smoky smell. If it smells sour, rancid, or like sulfur, it’s spoiled.
3. Texture:
Beyond sliminess, if the ham feels unusually dry or sticky, it might be past its prime.
What Happens If You Eat Ham Past Its Expiry Date?
Potential Health Risks:
Food Poisoning:
Consuming spoiled ham can lead to food poisoning due to harmful bacteria like Listeria monocytogenes or Clostridium botulinum. Symptoms can include:
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Chills
The onset of these symptoms can occur from a few hours up to several days after consumption.
Specific Bacteria Concerns:
- Listeria: Especially dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, potentially leading to severe infections.
- Clostridium botulinum: Can produce toxins causing botulism, which is rare but can be life-threatening, leading to paralysis.
Toxin Exposure:
Some bacterial toxins can damage kidneys or other organs, posing a severe health risk if not addressed.
Consequences of Eating Expired Ham
- Mild Cases: Might result in mild gastrointestinal distress for a day or two.
- Severe Cases: Could lead to prolonged illness, hospitalization, or in extreme cases, complications requiring medical intervention.
Precautionary Measures
Check Before Eating
Even if the ham is past its expiry date, inspect it for the signs of spoilage mentioned above. If in doubt, it’s safest to discard it.
Proper Storage
Always store ham in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended time frame after opening (typically 3-5 days).
Freeze for Long-Term Storage
If you can’t use the ham within this period, freeze it to extend its life. However, freezing past the expiration date is not recommended as quality may have already diminished.
Best Glaze for Spiral Ham
Choosing the right glaze can elevate your Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham from good to unforgettable. Here are some top recommendations:
Classic Brown Sugar Glaze
This is a timeless option that combines brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice. The result is a glaze that’s sweet with a tangy bite, perfectly caramelizing over the ham for a rich, flavorful crust.
Maple-Bourbon Glaze
For those looking to impress with something a bit more unique, try a maple syrup and bourbon mixture. Add a dash of cider or apple juice for complexity, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to tie it all together. This glaze brings a warm, smoky sweetness to your ham.
Spicy Sriracha Glaze
If you like a little heat, mix sriracha into your glaze. Combine it with brown sugar or honey to balance the spice with sweetness. This glaze will add an exciting kick, making your ham stand out on the holiday table.
How to Cook a Spiral Ham in the Oven
Cooking your spiral ham in the oven is straightforward but requires attention to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful. Here’s how:
STEPS
Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F. This temperature ensures that the ham heats through without drying out.
Prepare the Ham
Place your Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham cut side down in a roasting pan. This position helps distribute heat evenly.
Cover and Bake
Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil to keep it moist. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound. For a 10-pound ham, that’s about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Apply Glaze
About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil. Brush your chosen glaze over the entire surface of the ham, making sure it gets into the spiral cuts for maximum flavor penetration.
Finish Uncovered
Continue baking the ham uncovered for the last 30 minutes. This step allows the glaze to caramelize, giving your ham a beautiful, glossy finish.
Rest
Once removed from the oven, let the ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is succulent and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I cook it in a slow cooker?
While possible, the oven method is recommended for best results in terms of texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have a glaze packet?
You can whip up your own with ingredients like brown sugar, honey, and mustard.
How do I know if my ham is precooked?
Check the packaging for labels like “fully cooked,” “ready to eat,” or “pre-cooked.” These terms indicate that the ham has been cooked and only needs to be heated through. If there’s no such label, it might require cooking from raw.
Are hams precooked when you buy them?
Most hams sold in supermarkets are precooked, especially those labeled as “city hams.” They are cured and smoked or baked before packaging, meant to be warmed up rather than cooked from scratch. However, fresh hams or those labeled “cook before eating” are exceptions and need cooking.
What is the difference between spiral and non-spiral ham?
A spiral ham is pre-sliced in a continuous spiral cut around the bone, making it easy to serve as slices can be easily pulled apart. A non-spiral ham, on the other hand, is whole and uncut, requiring you to carve it yourself, which can keep more moisture in the ham since it hasn’t been sliced beforehand.
Are all Christmas hams precooked?
Not all Christmas hams are precooked. While many holiday hams are precooked for convenience, especially those sold for holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas, there are options like fresh or specialty hams that need to be cooked. Always check the label.
Can you eat ham without cooking?
If the ham is labeled as precooked or “ready to eat,” you can consume it straight from the package without further cooking. However, heating can enhance its flavor and texture, especially for spiral hams.
Is spiral ham processed?
Yes, spiral ham is processed. It involves curing with salt, sugar, and sometimes nitrates or nitrites, followed by smoking or baking. The spiral cutting itself is an additional processing step that makes the ham ready for easy serving.
How do you eat a spiral ham?
Spiral ham can be eaten in many ways. For serving, you simply pull the pre-sliced sections apart. It’s great for sandwiches, as a main dish with sides, or even diced into salads or omelets. The convenience of the spiral cut means you can easily serve it at room temperature or warm.
Is spiral ham healthy for you?
Spiral ham, like other hams, is a good source of protein but is also high in sodium and can contain saturated fat, depending on the cut. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid excessive salt intake.
What is special about spiral ham?
The main advantage of spiral ham is its ease of serving; the pre-slicing allows for quick and uniform slices without the need for expert carving skills. Additionally, the spiral cut allows glaze to penetrate between the slices, enhancing flavor and presentation.
How to Cook the perfect Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham in a slow cooker
Place the ham in the slow cooker with a bit of liquid (like pineapple juice or broth) to keep it moist. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding glaze in the last hour of cooking. This method ensures tenderness but might not give the same caramelization as oven cooking.
How to Cook the perfect Sam’s Choice Spiral Ham in the oven
Follow the same method as with glaze, but if not glazing, keep covered with foil throughout to retain moisture, removing only in the last few minutes if you want a bit of a crust.
How long to cook a 10 lb spiral ham
Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours at 325°F, assuming it’s a pre-cooked ham.
Conclusion
Mastering how long to cook Sam’s Choice spiral ham means you’re ready to serve up an unforgettable meal. With these tips, you’ll not only impress your family but also ensure that your holiday feast is both delicious and memorable. Now go ahead, set that oven, and let’s make some culinary magic happen with your Sam’s Choice spiral ham!