Hempler’s Black Forest ham is a premium smoked ham that’s fully cooked and ready to eat. However for best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to gently reheat the ham before serving. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to learn how to properly cook Hempler’s famous Black Forest ham.
Overview of Hempler’s Black Forest Ham
Hempler’s Black Forest ham is inspired by the artisanal hams of Germany’s Black Forest region It’s made with only fresh pork legs and Hempler’s special blend of salts and spices The ham is then naturally hardwood smoked over fires of oak, hickory, and maple to infuse robust smoky flavor.
Hempler’s hams are fully cooked until fork tender and ready to eat right from the package. But lightly reheating the ham enhances the flavor and makes it easier to carve and serve.
Hempler’s Black Forest ham comes in three convenient sizes:
- Whole ham (14-16 lbs)
- Half ham (7-8 lbs)
- Quarter ham (3-4 lbs)
The reheating method is the same for all sizes. Plan about 15-20 minutes of oven time per pound. Let’s look at the simple reheating process step-by-step.
Step 1 – Remove Packaging
Hempler’s hams come wrapped in protective film and netting. Remove all outer plastic, paper, and netting from the ham before reheating. Also remove any skin clip or plastic disc covering the bone.
Leave an intact layer of fat on the ham if present. The natural fat helps keep the ham moist during reheating.
Step 2 – Place Ham in Pan
Position the ham in a large roasting pan or baking dish. For best results, use a shallow pan that’s about 2 inches larger than the ham. This allows even air flow during reheating.
A quarter ham piece can fit in a 9×13 inch baking pan. A half ham needs a roasting pan at least 14×10 inches. For a whole ham, use a roasting pan 17×13 inches or larger.
For bone-in hams: Stand the ham upright in the pan with the cut face against the side of the pan. This exposes more surface area to the hot air for even reheating.
For boneless hams: Simply place the ham flat in the pan.
Step 3 – Cover with Foil
Tightly cover the entire ham with aluminum foil. The foil helps lock in moisture and infuse the ham with smoky flavor.
Make sure the foil extends over the edges of the pan with no gaps. Crimp and seal the foil tightly around the ham.
Step 4 – Bake at 275°F
Preheat the oven to 275°F. This low roasting temperature gently heats the ham without drying it out.
Place the foil-covered ham in the preheated oven. Bake at 275°F, allowing about 15-20 minutes per pound.
Cooking times:
- Quarter ham (3-4 lbs): 45 mins to 1 hr 15 mins
- Half ham (7-8 lbs): 1 hr 45 mins to 2 hrs 30 mins
- Whole ham (14-16 lbs): 3 hrs 30 mins to 4 hrs
The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 135-145°F. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Step 5 – Stand Before Slicing
Remove the fully reheated ham from the oven. Let it stand covered with foil for at least 10-15 minutes before removing the foil and slicing.
This standing time allows the juices to absorb back into the meat for a moist and tender texture.
Step 6 – Carve and Serve
Uncover the ham and use a sharp knife to carve thin slices across the grain of the meat.
Serve the hot sliced ham with traditional side dishes like scalloped potatoes, baked beans, cornbread, and honey glazed carrots.
Refrigerate any leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Enjoy the smoky Black Forest ham cold in sandwiches and snacks.
FAQs About Cooking Hempler’s Hams
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about reheating and serving Hempler’s premium hams:
How long does an uncooked Hempler’s ham take to bake?
Hempler’s hams are already fully cooked when you buy them. They just need gentle reheating before eating. Do not actually bake or cook the ham from raw.
Can you eat Hempler’s ham right out of the package?
Yes, Hempler’s hams are pre-cooked and ready to eat. However, reheating improves moisture and flavor.
What if my ham is too salty?
Soak the ham in water 4 hours before cooking to reduce saltiness. Rinse well, pat dry, and bake as normal.
Can you reheat Hempler’s ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, place in a slow cooker with 1 cup of water, covered on low 4-5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 140°F.
How long does leftover ham last refrigerated?
Refrigerate carved ham for up to 5 days tightly wrapped. Slice and freeze portions for longer storage up to 2-3 months.
Can you freeze uncooked Hempler’s ham?
Do not freeze uncooked hams as they are already fully cooked when purchased. Simply refrigerate until ready to reheat.
What are the best side dishes with baked ham?
Mustard glazed carrots, scalloped potatoes, pineapple stuffing, buttermilk biscuits, green bean casserole, and baked mac and cheese pair deliciously with baked ham.
Enjoy Hempler’s Signature Black Forest Ham
Hempler’s Black Forest ham is smoked over a blend of hardwoods to succulent, savory perfection. Follow this easy baking guide for moist, full-flavored ham that’s a perfect centerpiece for special meals and holiday feasts. From removing packaging to proper oven temperature and cook times, these tips help you rediscover the art of great-tasting ham.