What is a Buffet Ham? A Complete Guide

A buffet ham is a type of cooked and cured ham that is specially prepared to be served in a buffet style setting. It is a popular choice for large gatherings parties and holiday meals. But what exactly makes a ham a “buffet ham”? Let’s take a closer look at what defines this type of ham.

Overview of Buffet Ham

Buffet ham gets its name from the buffet-style serving method. It is cooked whole in a large batch to feed a crowd rather than individual portions. The ham is then sliced and arranged on a serving platter, allowing guests to serve themselves.

This style of ham tends to be larger, ranging from a 7 pound half ham up to a 15 pound full ham. It is cured through methods like smoking, drying, or wet-curing. This gives the meat good flavor and preservation.

Many buffet hams are spiral cut as well. This makes serving simple, as the slices remain intact instead of shredding. The characteristic swirl pattern also gives an attractive presentation.

Benefits of Choosing Buffet Ham

There are a few key reasons buffet ham is perfect for large gatherings:

• Easy to serve – With pre-sliced portions, guests can serve themselves with no carving required

• Cost effective – Buying one large ham is cheaper per person than individual ham steaks.

• Feeding a crowd – A whole buffet ham can serve anywhere from 15 to 30 people comfortably.

• Presentation – The spiral cut pattern looks beautiful on a serving platter.

• Flavorful – Curing and smoking results in bold, delicious ham flavor.

• Customization – Guests can take as much or as little ham as desired.

So if you are hosting Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving dinner, a buffet ham is likely the best choice to satisfy a house full of hungry guests.

Popular Types of Buffet Ham

There are a few specific types of ham that are most commonly used for buffet-style serving:

• Spiral cut ham – These hams are sliced vertically in a continuous spiral shape. This helps the ham hold together instead of shredding when cut. The decorative presentation is also ideal for buffets.

• Bone-in ham – Leaving the bone in results in a classic ham shape. It also adds more flavor. The bone makes carving easier too.

• Pre-cooked ham – Opting for ham that is fully cooked saves time and effort. You can simply reheat and serve.

• Glazed ham – A sweet, sticky glaze adds flavor and moisture to a ham. Brown sugar and honey are popular glaze ingredients.

• Smoked ham – Smoking infuses the meat with a delicious smoky taste. It’s a favorite flavor for buffet hams.

How to Prepare Buffet Ham

Preparing a buffet ham is simple since most are pre-cooked. Here is the basic process:

• Choose a cured, pre-cooked buffet ham and calculate 1/3 to 1/2 pound per person.

• Remove any skin or packaging. Score the fat in a diamond pattern.

• Place ham cut-side down in a baking dish and cover. For whole hams, bake at 325°F for about 15 minutes per pound.

• When done, remove from oven and tent foil over it. Let rest 15-20 minutes before slicing.

• Arrange slices on a serving platter. Offer condiments like mustard, pickles, and pineapple.

And that’s all there is to it! Let your pre-cooked buffet ham simply reheat, rest, then slice and serve.

Handy Serving Tips

Follow these tips for the best results when serving your buffet ham:

• Keep the sliced ham warm in a chafing dish or slow cooker. Cold ham won’t be appetizing.

• Provide a carving knife and fork for easy serving. Offer disposable gloves to guests as well.

• Add a glaze or pineapple rings on top for even more flavor and appeal.

• Pair with classic ham sides like scalloped potatoes, deviled eggs, and baked beans.

• Have moist towelettes available for sticky fingersalong with a trash bin.

• Use any leftovers for dishes like ham salad sandwiches, omelets, or split pea soup.

Common Questions about Buffet Ham

How long does buffet ham last?

Leftover buffet ham will last 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to 165°F. For longer storage, slice ham and freeze it in air-tight packaging for 2-3 months.

What’s the best way to reheat buffet ham?

To reheat buffet ham, place slices in a baking dish with a bit of broth. Cover with foil and bake at 325°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes per pound. Check temperature with a meat thermometer.

Can you cook an uncooked ham for a buffet?

It’s possible but will require more time and attention. Opt for a fully cooked, ready-to-heat ham for easiest buffet prep. If using an uncooked ham, calculate 25-30 minutes per pound at 325°F.

What’s the ideal thickness for buffet ham slices?

The best thickness is between 1/4 to 1/2 inch slices. Thinner slices may dry out when kept warm. Thicker slices will be harder to chew.Aim for uniform slices around 3/8 inch thick.

Is it okay to freeze leftover buffet ham?

Yes, freezing is a great way to preserve leftover ham. Allow ham to cool completely before freezing in air-tight packaging for 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to serve again.

The Perfect Main Dish for Entertaining

Buffet ham is clearly the ideal choice when hosting a large dinner party or holiday gathering. It can feed a crowd with minimal effort required. Following the simple steps for preparing, cooking, and serving buffet ham results in a beautiful main dish your guests will love. Just be prepared for the ham to disappear quickly from your buffet table!