I love ham. The delicious, succulent meat makes my taste buds dance with delight. Whether it’s sliced thin in a sandwich or served as the star of a holiday feast, ham always brings a smile to my face. But what happens when you have leftover ham and you don’t want to fire up the oven? Can you microwave ham? The answer is yes, and in this quick guide, I’ll show you how to heat up your tasty treat in no time.
The Magic of Microwaving
Why Microwave?
Microwaving is a convenient and quick way to heat up your ham without the hassle of waiting for the oven to preheat. Plus, it’s a real lifesaver when you’re short on time or just want a quick snack. But it’s important to note that not all hams are created equal when it comes to microwaving.
Choosing the Right Ham
When it comes to microwaving ham, it’s essential to choose the right kind of ham. I recommend using fully-cooked ham, as it will heat up more evenly in the microwave. Honey or glazed hams are also good options, as the added sweetness can enhance the flavor. However, be cautious with spiral-cut hams, as their thin slices may dry out faster in the microwave.
Getting Down to Business: Microwaving Ham
Step 1: Prepping the Ham
Before microwaving your ham, you’ll need to prepare it properly. Start by removing any plastic wrapping, netting, or aluminum foil that may be around the ham. Be sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.
Step 2: Slicing and Placing
For larger hams, it’s a good idea to slice them into smaller pieces to ensure even heating. Place the ham slices or pieces in a microwave-safe dish or on a microwave-safe plate.
Step 3: Adding Moisture
To prevent your ham from drying out in the microwave, add some moisture. You can do this by drizzling a bit of water or even pineapple juice over the ham slices. This small trick will help keep the ham moist and juicy throughout the reheating process.
Step 4: Covering Up
To retain moisture and prevent splattering, cover your dish or plate with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe wrap. If you don’t have either of those, you can also use a microwave-safe microwave cover or a damp paper towel.
Step 5: Microwaving Time
Now it’s time to let the microwave work its magic. Set your microwave to medium power and heat the ham slices for 2 to 3 minutes per pound. For example, if you have half a pound of ham, heat it for about 1 to 1.5 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on the ham while it’s cooking and adjust the time as needed to avoid overcooking.
Step 6: Checking the Temperature
To ensure your ham is fully heated and safe to eat, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for ham.
Alternative Methods
If you don’t have a microwave or prefer not to use one, there are alternative methods for heating up your ham.
Oven
If you have a little more time, you can reheat your ham in the oven. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C), place the ham slices or pieces on a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Stovetop
For a quick stovetop method, place your ham slices or pieces in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little bit of water or broth to keep the ham moist, cover the skillet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until the ham is thoroughly heated.
Conclusion
So, can you microwave ham? Absolutely! Microwaving is a convenient and efficient option when it comes to heating up your tasty treat. Just remember to choose the right kind of ham, follow the necessary steps for preparation, and keep an eye on it while it’s cooking. Whether you’re enjoying a ham sandwich or preparing a holiday feast, your deliciously warmed-up ham will always leave you satisfied.