Cooking a delicious and juicy ham in an air fryer is now easier than ever before. Whether you’re planning a special dinner, a holiday feast, or simply want to enjoy a succulent ham, using an air fryer can result in a perfectly cooked dish that will impress your family and guests. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and easy recipe to cook a ham in an air fryer. So, let’s get started and dive into the delectable world of cooking ham in an air fryer.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we start the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. For a basic air fryer ham recipe, you will need the following:
1. A pre-cooked ham: Choose a ham that is fully cooked and boneless. Opt for a ham with a uniform shape to ensure even cooking.
2. Brown sugar: A sweet element that will caramelize and add flavor to your ham.
3. Honey: Another sweet ingredient that complements the savory flavors of the ham.
4. Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the glaze and enhances the overall taste.
5. Ground cinnamon: An optional spice that adds warmth and depth to the glaze.
6. Good quality air fryer: Make sure to use an air fryer that can accommodate the size of your ham comfortably.
Preparing the Air Fryer and Ham
Step 1: Preheating the Air Fryer
To ensure even cooking and optimum results, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on your ham.
Step 2: Preparing the Glaze
While your air fryer is preheating, it’s time to prepare the glaze for your ham. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of ground cinnamon if desired. Stir all the ingredients until well combined.
Step 3: Preparing the Ham
Remove the packaging from your pre-cooked ham and place it on a clean cutting board. If the ham has excess fat, trim it to your desired level. Score the surface of the ham by making shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern. This method will allow the glaze to penetrate the meat, giving it more flavor.
Cooking the Ham in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Applying the Glaze
Take the prepared glaze and generously brush it all over the surface of the ham. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny for a flavorsome outcome. Reserve some glaze for later use during the cooking process.
Step 2: Placing the Ham in the Air Fryer
Now that your ham is fully glazed, carefully place it in the preheated air fryer basket. Ensure that the ham fits comfortably without touching the sides of the air fryer. If your ham is larger, you may need to cut it into smaller portions to fit it inside the fryer.
Step 3: Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature will vary depending on the size of your ham and the wattage of your air fryer. However, as a general guideline, air fry your ham at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes per pound. Remember to check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Step 4: Adding More Glaze
About halfway through the cooking process, remove the air fryer basket and brush an additional layer of the reserved glaze on the ham. This step will add more flavor and enhance the appearance of your ham.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer using oven mitts or tongs. Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute evenly, resulting in a moist and tender ham. Slice your ham into your desired thickness and serve it warm alongside your favorite sides.
Some Tips and Variations
– If you prefer a darker and caramelized glaze, give your ham a quick broil in the oven after air frying. This step will add an extra touch of deliciousness.
– Experiment with different glazes, such as maple syrup, pineapple juice, or balsamic reduction, to create unique flavor profiles.
– Adding cloves to the surface of the ham before applying the glaze will infuse it with aromatic nuances.
– For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating your ham overnight in a mixture of spices, herbs, and liquids before air frying.
– Leftover air fryer ham is incredibly versatile and makes a fantastic addition to sandwiches, salads, omelets, or pasta dishes.
Conclusion
Cooking a ham in an air fryer opens up a world of possibilities to create a delicious and juicy centerpiece. By following the simple steps mentioned above, you can effortlessly achieve a beautifully glazed and perfectly cooked ham that will leave your taste buds wanting more. So, don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe for your next special occasion or family gathering. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the convenience offered by cooking a ham in an air fryer!