What To Know
- Submerge the frozen ham in cold water in a large container or sink.
- Can I use a fresh or smoked ham in my Instant Pot.
- Add 1 cup of water or broth to the Instant Pot and place the ham on the trivet.
Indulge in the tantalizing aroma and savory flavors of ham, effortlessly prepared in your Instant Pot. This versatile kitchen appliance transforms cooking into a symphony of convenience and culinary excellence. Discover the secrets of “how to cook ham instant pot” and elevate your holiday gatherings or everyday dinners to new heights of taste and ease.
Choosing the Perfect Ham
The foundation of a delectable ham dish lies in selecting the right cut. Opt for a fully cooked ham, which eliminates the need for extensive cooking time. Bone-in hams retain more flavor, while boneless hams offer easier carving.
Preparing the Ham
Before embarking on the cooking process, prepare the ham by removing any excess packaging and rinsing it thoroughly with cold water. Trim off any visible fat, as desired.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Ham Delight
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Instant Pot:
- 1 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 fully cooked ham
Step-by-Step Instant Pot Ham Magic
1. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Add Liquid to Instant Pot: Pour the water or chicken broth into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
3. Place the Ham: Carefully place the ham on the trivet.
4. Apply the Glaze: Brush the glaze generously over the ham, ensuring even coverage.
5. Secure the Lid: Lock the lid into place and set the valve to “Sealing.”
6. Select Pressure Cook: Press the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” button and adjust the cooking time according to the weight of the ham:
- 3-4 pounds: 20 minutes
- 5-6 pounds: 25 minutes
- 7-8 pounds: 30 minutes
7. Natural Release: Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
8. Quick Release: Carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “Venting.”
9. Glaze and Serve: Remove the ham from the Instant Pot and transfer it to a serving platter. Brush on any remaining glaze and carve the ham as desired.
Tips for Enhancing Ham Flavor
- Use a flavorful liquid: Substitute chicken broth for water to infuse the ham with extra depth.
- Experiment with glazes: Explore different glaze combinations, such as pineapple, maple, or orange marmalade.
- Add aromatics: Place sliced onions, garlic, or rosemary in the Instant Pot to enhance the aroma.
Side Dish Symphony
Complement your succulent ham with an array of delectable sides:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base.
- Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts, add a vibrant touch.
- Mac and cheese: Indulge in the classic combination of creamy mac and cheese with a crispy topping.
- Green beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic and almonds offer a refreshing and flavorful side.
Storing Leftover Ham
Preserve the flavors of your ham for future enjoyment:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze leftover ham in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Thawing Frozen Ham
Safely thaw frozen ham before cooking:
- Refrigerator: Place the frozen ham in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours per 5 pounds.
- Cold Water: Submerge the frozen ham in cold water in a large container or sink. Change the water every 30 minutes.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use a fresh or smoked ham in my Instant Pot?
A: Fresh hams require longer cooking times. Smoked hams have a strong flavor and may not need additional seasoning.
Q: How do I adjust the cooking time for a larger ham?
A: Add 5 minutes of cooking time for every additional pound of ham.
Q: Can I skip the glaze?
A: Yes, but the glaze adds a delicious flavor and caramelization to the ham.
Q: How do I reheat leftover ham in my Instant Pot?
A: Add 1 cup of water or broth to the Instant Pot and place the ham on the trivet. Cook on the “Steam” setting for 10-15 minutes.
Q: Can I cook vegetables with the ham in my Instant Pot?
A: Yes, place vegetables on the trivet with the ham. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
