Spiral sliced hams often come with a small clear plastic button inserted into the bone. This little button serves an important purpose – it helps hold the slices together for easier packaging and transportation. However, before you cook your ham, it’s important to remove this clear button.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the clear button is, why you need to remove it, and provide a simple step-by-step process for getting it out without damaging your ham.
What is the Clear Button on a Spiral Ham?
The clear button found on most spiral cut hams is a small plastic fastener inserted into the ham bone It is usually made of food-safe plastic and helps keep the slices neatly aligned rather than flopping all over the place
The button is inserted by the producer before packaging to make the ham easier to transport, stock on shelves, and handle during the cooking prep process. It serves as a kind of “skeleton” to hold the meat together.
While the button itself is harmless if consumed, it should be removed before cooking for presentation and safety
Why Remove the Clear Button?
There are a few reasons it’s recommended to remove the clear button before cooking your spiral cut ham:
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Appearance – The button leaves an unsightly blemish on the ham surface. Removing it allows for better presentation.
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Even cooking – The plastic may interfere with heat circulation or glaze distribution during cooking.
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Melting hazard – The button could melt, fall off, or pose a choking risk if left on during cooking.
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Taste – Some report a slight plastic flavor if the ham is cooked with the button on.
While not dangerous, removing the button improves aesthetics and ensures your ham cooks evenly for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing the Button
Removing the clear button takes just seconds and requires no special tools. Here is a simple step-by-step guide:
1. Locate the Button
Examine your uncooked spiral ham and locate the clear plastic button inserted into the exposed ham bone.
2. Grasp the Button
Use your fingers to grasp the button firmly on the sides. A paper towel can help you get a solid grip.
3. Pull Straight Out
Pull straight out away from the ham in one firm, steady motion. The button should slide smoothly out of the bone opening.
4. Discard the Button
You won’t need the plastic button anymore, so it can be discarded. Be sure to wash hands after handling raw ham.
And that’s it! With the button removed, your ham is ready for the oven. Just follow your recipe instructions for baking.
Helpful Tips for Removing the Button
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Don’t worry if there is some meat attached to the button upon removing – this is natural. Just pull firmly and steadily.
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If the button seems stuck, try wiggling it gently side-to-side while pulling.
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Avoid using knives or skewers to remove the button, as this can damage the ham. Fingers or pliers work best.
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Make sure to wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw ham to prevent cross-contamination.
Cooking Your Ham After Removing the Button
Once removed, the ham can be cooked as the recipe directs. Most hams are baked in the oven using the following basic steps:
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Preheat oven to 325°F.
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Place ham cut-side down in a baking dish. Add 1-inch of water or glaze ingredients.
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Tent ham loosely with foil and bake for approx. 12-15 minutes per pound.
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Remove foil last 30 minutes to brown the outside.
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Cook until internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing for juicy results. Now you can enjoy your spiral cut ham without the hassle or risks of that little clear button!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the clear button made of?
The button is made of a lightweight, food-safe plastic that can withstand oven temperatures.
Can I reuse the clear button after removing it?
No, the button is meant for one-time use. Reinserting it after cooking poses contamination and choking risks.
Will the ham slices fall apart without the button?
No – the slices may loosen slightly but the ham holds its spiral shape fine for cooking without the button.
What if some meat comes off attached to the button when removing?
A small amount of meat residue is normal – just pull firmly and steadily. The ham will be fine for cooking.
Can I microwave the ham with the button still inserted?
It’s not recommended. Always remove the button first, then follow microwave instructions.
Removing the clear button may seem like a minor detail, but taking this simple step helps ensure your spiral cut ham cooks evenly and looks its very best. Follow this guide for foolproof results!