I have always been a fan of quick and easy meals, especially on busy weeknights when I don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. One of my favorite go-to meals is ham, and I have found that the microwave is a great tool for preparing it. In this article, I will share with you my quick and easy guide to microwaving ham, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle.
Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to choose the right ham for microwaving. Look for a fully cooked ham that is boneless and pre-sliced. This type of ham is already cooked, so all we need to do is heat it up in the microwave. You can find a variety of options at your local grocery store, so choose one that suits your taste preferences.
Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Now that you have your ham, it’s time to gather the necessary ingredients and tools for microwaving. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Boneless, pre-sliced ham
– Microwave-safe dish or plate
– Microwave-safe plastic wrap
– Dijon mustard (optional)
– Brown sugar (optional)
– Pineapple slices (optional)
Preparing the Ham
Before placing the ham in the microwave, there are a few steps you can take to enhance its flavor. While these steps are optional, they can add a delicious twist to your meal.
1. Dijon Mustard: If you enjoy a tangy kick, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the ham slices. This will add a wonderful flavor to the ham as it heats up in the microwave.
2. Brown Sugar: For those who prefer a sweeter taste, sprinkle brown sugar over the ham slices. The sugar will caramelize as the ham heats, creating a delightful glaze.
3. Pineapple Slices: If you’re a fan of the classic combination of ham and pineapple, place a pineapple slice on each ham slice. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the savory ham.
Cooking the Ham
Now that the ham is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the microwave. Follow these simple steps:
1. Place the ham slices on a microwave-safe dish or plate. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Cover the dish or plate with microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help retain the moisture and prevent the ham from drying out.
3. Set the microwave to medium-high or 70% power. This will ensure that the ham is heated through without becoming too dry.
4. Microwave the ham for 1 to 2 minutes per slice. The exact cooking time will depend on the wattage of your microwave and the thickness of the ham slices. Start with 1 minute per slice and add more time if needed.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the ham is heated through, carefully remove it from the microwave and let it rest for a minute or two. This will allow the flavors to meld together and ensure that the ham is tender and juicy.
Now it’s time to plate your ham and enjoy it! Serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The possibilities are endless.
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can enjoy the leftover ham in sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for pizzas.
In Conclusion
Microwaving ham is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. By choosing the right ham, preparing it with your favorite flavors, and cooking it in the microwave, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. So why wait? Try microwaving ham tonight and savor the flavors with every bite!