How to Make Delicious Corned Ham at Home

Corned ham is a specialty cured ham with a signature salty, savory flavor. While you can buy pre-made corned ham, making your own at home is surprisingly easy and allows you to control the ingredients. With just salt, time and a fresh ham, you can have delicious homemade corned ham ready for your next holiday meal or weekend gathering.

What is Corned Ham?

Traditionally, corning is a process of curing meat in a salt brine solution known as the “corns” of salt This preserves and flavors the meat while giving it a distinctive firm yet tender texture Corned ham is made by corning an uncured fresh ham using this traditional technique.

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients needed to make corned ham are simple

• Fresh ham – Select a boneless or bone-in ham between 10-15 lbs Opt for good marbling

• Kosher salt – The salt draws moisture out of the meat to preserve and season it.

• Spices (optional) – For extra flavor, add spices like peppercorns, bay leaves, cloves, garlic, brown sugar.

• Large container – To brine the ham. A food-safe plastic bucket or tub works well.

• Cheesecloth – To wrap ham.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly home-cured corned ham:

1. Prepare the ham – Rinse ham and pat dry. Score fat cap and poke holes around bone to help salt penetrate.

2. Pack with salt – Rub salt all over ham and generously fill cuts and cavities. Use 2 cups salt per 1 lb meat.

3. Cure – Place ham in container and cover with salt. Add any extra spices. Cover with cheesecloth and brine 11-14 days.

4. Rinse and soak – Rinse ham and soak in water overnight to remove excess salt.

5. Cook – Roast uncured ham in oven for 25-30 minutes per lb until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

6. Rest and slice – Allow ham to rest before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Refrigerate ham while curing for food safety.
• Inject thick parts with brine solution using a syringe for even curing.
• Simmer ham in salted water with spices instead of brining.
• Soak fully cured ham before cooking to reduce saltiness.
• Glaze ham during roasting for added flavor and browning.

What to Serve with Corned Ham

Classic side dishes that pair well with corned ham include:

• Potatoes – Mashed, scalloped or roasted potatoes.

• Vegetables – Steamed cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach, peas.

• Breads – Biscuits, cornbread, homemade rolls or bread.

• Salads – Potato salad, coleslaw, pasta salad, green salad.

• Sauces – Mustard, horseradish cream, applesauce, chutney.

Storing and Leftover Corned Ham

• Fully cooked corned ham keeps refrigerated for 5-7 days.

• Tightly wrap slices or pieces of leftover ham and store for up to 4 days.

• Use diced ham in casseroles, soups, hash, omelets, sandwiches and more.

With its signature salty flavor and tender texture, homemade corned ham is sure to become your new favorite holiday tradition. Impress your family with your culinary skills by curing your own ham at home.