Cooking Easter ham, tricks and tips

But how can you make the perfect Easter ham and what all influences its quality? In this article, we''ll explore everything you need to know about Easter ham and equip you with tricks and tips for the most perfect Easter ham.

1. What is Easter ham and when do we eat it/why

Easter ham is the centrepiece of the Easter feast, eaten during the Easter holidays, especially on Easter Sunday or Easter Monday. The tradition of eating ham on this day dates back centuries, when, after a long period of fasting, the meat was a rich and nutritious dish marking the end of Lent and the beginning of a new season of life. The ham prepared and served at Easter is not just a meal; it is a symbol of abundance, sharing and communal celebration.

2. What influences its quality

The quality of Easter ham depends on several factors, including the choice of meat, the way it is prepared and cooked, and the additives and spices used in its preparation. The selection of the meat is the first and most important step. Quality ham starts with the selection of quality pork that is properly nourished and healthy. The way in which pigs are fed and reared can have a major impact on the taste and texture of the meat.

In addition to the choice of meat, the way it is cured, dried and/or smoked is also important. Natural curing and gradual drying preserve the meat and improve its flavour, while smoking adds a rich, deep smoky flavour. The use of high quality spices and herbs can further enhance the flavour of the ham.

3. Types of ham

- Cured ham: This type of ham is cured and then air-dried, giving it a distinctive flavour. Drying can take from a few months to a few years, depending on the size and desired taste.

- Cured and smoked ham: After curing and drying, this ham is further smoked in cold smoke, which adds a distinctive smoky flavour.

- Pre-cooked ham: This is a pre-cooked ham which is usually packaged in vacuum packs. It is a quick and convenient option for those who may not have the time or facilities to prepare a traditional cured or smoked ham.

4. How to cook Easter ham

Cooking Easter ham can be a simple process if you follow a few basic steps. Here is a general recipe:

1. Preparation: If you use cured or smoked ham, first soak it well in water to remove excessive salt. The soaking time depends on the size of the ham and the degree of saltiness, usually 12 to 24 hours, changing the water several times.

2. Seasoning: Before cooking, the ham can be rubbed with a mixture of spices to enhance its flavour. Spices such as pepper, juniper berries, garlic, rosemary or thyme are commonly used, depending on personal preference.

3. Cooking: Place the ham in a large pot and cover with water so that it is completely covered. You can also add spices such as bay leaves, whole onions or cloves to further flavour the water. Allow the water to come to a slow boil, then reduce the heat and cook the ham slowly. The cooking time depends on the size and type of ham, but as a general rule of thumb it should be about 20 minutes per 500 grams.

4. Glazing: When the ham is almost cooked, remove it from the pot and leave it to cool down a little. Then remove the top layer of skin, leaving a thin layer of fat. Score the fat in a pattern of crosses or diamonds and, if desired, insert a clove in each notch. Then coat the ham with the glaze of your choice. Glazes can vary from a simple honey-mustard mixture to more complex combinations with orange juice, brown sugar or even bourbon.

5. Baking: Place the glazed ham in an oven preheated to about 180°C for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the glaze is nicely golden brown and caramelised. Be careful not to burn the glaze.

6. Serving: Let the ham rest for at least 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to distribute evenly over the meat, ensuring that the ham is juicy and tasty.

Cooking Easter ham takes time and patience, but the result is well worth the effort. With the right choice of ham, proper preparation and careful cooking, you can present a delicious dish on your Easter table that will impress family and friends. Don''t forget to experiment with different spices and glazes to find your perfect combination of flavours that will become your Easter tradition.

Easter ham is more than just a meal; it is a symbol of tradition, abundance and celebration together. With the right selection, preparation and cooking, you can create a memorable dish that will be the centrepiece of your Easter feast.