With the rise in popularity of air fryers, people are discovering the endless possibilities of what this handy kitchen appliance can do. From crispy fries to mouthwatering chicken wings, the air fryer has quickly become a staple in many households. But did you know that you can also make deliciously tender ham in your air fryer? Yes, you read that right! In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making a juicy and flavorful ham right in your very own air fryer.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to choose the right ham for your air fryer. While any type of ham can be used, it is recommended to opt for a boneless ham as it will cook more evenly in the air fryer. Whether you prefer a spiral or a regular ham is entirely up to you, as both will result in a delicious meal.
Ingredients
To make your tender ham in the air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 boneless ham (sized to fit your air fryer)
– ¼ cup of brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– ½ teaspoon of ground cloves
– ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
Preparing the Ham
Before cooking your ham, you’ll need to prepare it for the air fryer. Start by removing any packaging or netting from the ham. If your ham has a layer of fat, you can choose to leave it on for added flavor or trim it off if preferred.
Next, use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This will allow the delicious glaze to penetrate every nook and cranny, resulting in a flavorful and tender ham. Be sure not to cut too deeply into the meat, as you only want to score the surface.
Creating the Glaze
The glaze is what gives the ham its mouthwatering flavor and glossy appearance. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Mix everything together until well combined. This sweet and slightly tangy glaze will perfectly complement the savory ham.
Air Frying the Ham
Now that your ham is prepared and the glaze is ready, it’s time to start air frying. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C). If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply turn it on for a few minutes to get it up to temperature.
Once preheated, place the ham in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring that it fits comfortably without touching the sides. If your ham is too large for your air fryer, you can cut it into smaller pieces to fit.
Applying the Glaze
Using a basting brush, generously brush the glaze mixture over the entire surface of the ham. Make sure to get into all the scored lines to fully infuse the flavor. If you have any leftover glaze, set it aside for later use.
Air Frying Time
Cook the ham in the air fryer at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 10 minutes per pound of meat. For example, if you have a 3-pound ham, you will cook it for approximately 30 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your ham and the specific air fryer model you are using.
Glazing During Cooking Process
About halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer and carefully brush another layer of glaze over the ham. This additional glaze will enhance the flavors and create a beautiful caramelized exterior.
Checking for Doneness
To ensure that your ham is fully cooked, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal safety. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any bone or gristle.
Serving the Tender Ham
Once your ham has reached the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This resting time will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and moist ham.
Slice the ham into thin or thick slices, depending on your preference, and serve it alongside your favorite side dishes. Whether it’s creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, or roasted vegetables, the options are endless.
Leftovers and Storage
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftover ham can be enjoyed cold in sandwiches or warmed up in the air fryer for a quick and delicious meal. When reheating, be sure to cover the ham with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Conclusion
Making a deliciously tender ham in your air fryer is easier than you might think. By following these simple steps and using the right ingredients, you can create a juicy and flavorful ham that will impress your family and guests. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!