Are you looking for a unique and delicious way to cook a ham? Look no further than cooking it in coke! This surprising cooking method may seem unusual, but it results in a tender and flavorful ham that will impress your family and friends.

The combination of the carbonation in coke and the natural sugars in the drink create a sweet and caramelized glaze on the ham, while also helping to break down the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This cooking technique has gained popularity in recent years and has become a favorite for many home cooks.

To cook a ham in coke, you simply need a few basic ingredients and some patience. The process involves simmering the ham in coke, allowing the flavors to infuse the meat. The length of time required will depend on the size of the ham, but typically ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours. The low and slow cooking method ensures that the ham is fully cooked and moist.

Pro tip: If you want to add some extra flavors to your ham, you can also add spices and herbs to the coke mixture. This will infuse the ham with additional aromas and tastes, making it even more mouthwatering.

So, if you’re looking for a new and exciting way to cook a ham, give cooking it in coke a try! The result will be a delicious and impressive centerpiece for your next meal.

Cooking a Ham in Coke

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If you’re looking to try something new and delicious for your next holiday meal, consider cooking a ham in Coca-Cola. This unique cooking method results in a tender and flavorful ham that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ham (pre-cooked or cured)
  • 2 liters of Coca-Cola
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tablespoon of whole cloves
  • 1 tablespoon of brown sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the ham in a large roasting pan with the fat side up.
  3. Pour the Coca-Cola over the ham, making sure it is completely submerged.
  4. Add the onion, garlic, cinnamon stick, cloves, and brown sugar to the roasting pan.
  5. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and place it in the oven.
  6. Cook the ham for 30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the cooking liquid to keep it moist and flavorful.
  8. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

This cooking method infuses the ham with the sweet and caramelized flavors of the Coca-Cola, while also tenderizing the meat. The result is a succulent and juicy ham that pairs perfectly with your favorite holiday sides.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a ham, give this Coca-Cola recipe a try and wow your family and friends with a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish.

Choosing the Right Size Ham

When it comes to cooking ham in Coke, choosing the right size ham is an important factor to consider. The size of the ham will determine the cooking time and the amount of other ingredients needed for the recipe. Whether you are cooking for a small family dinner or a large gathering, here are some tips for selecting the right size ham:

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Consider the Number of People

Start by considering the number of people you will be serving. A good rule of thumb is to estimate about 1/2 pound of bone-in ham per person. If you are serving boneless ham, you can estimate about 1/3 to 1/4 pound per person.

Determine the Amount of Leftovers

If you want to have leftovers or plan to use the ham for sandwiches or other recipes, you should consider getting a larger ham. A larger ham will provide more meat and give you the option to enjoy the dish for multiple meals.

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Keep in mind that ham is a versatile meat that can be used in various dishes, so having leftovers can be beneficial.

Remember to consider the size of your cooking equipment as well. Make sure the ham will fit comfortably in your oven or slow cooker.

By considering the number of people you will be serving and the amount of leftovers you desire, you can easily determine the right size ham to cook in Coke. Whether you choose a small or large ham, cooking it in Coke will add a unique and delicious flavor to your dish.

Preparing the Ham

Before cooking the ham in coke, you’ll need to prepare it properly to ensure the best results. Follow these steps:

1. Selecting the Ham

Choose a high-quality ham that is fully cooked but not pre-sliced. Look for a ham that has minimal additives or preservatives, as this can affect the flavor of the dish.

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2. Removing Excess Fat

Trim any excess fat from the surface of the ham, leaving a thin layer for flavor and moisture. Removing excess fat will help prevent the ham from becoming too greasy during cooking.

3. Preparing the Ham

Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This will allow the coke glaze to penetrate the ham and create a delicious caramelized crust.

4. Marinating the Ham

Place the scored ham in a large container and pour enough coke over it to fully submerge it. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. The coke will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

5. Preheating the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) while the ham is marinating. This will ensure that the oven is at the right temperature when it’s time to cook the ham.

Following these steps will help you prepare the ham for cooking in coke and ensure that it turns out tender and flavorful.

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Preparing the Coke Mixture

Before you begin cooking the ham in coke, you’ll need to prepare the coke mixture. This flavorful combination will infuse the ham with a unique taste.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of Coca-Cola
  • 1 cup of brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cloves
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In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the Coca-Cola, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ground cloves. Stir the ingredients until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

This coke mixture will serve as the sweet and tangy glaze for the ham while it cooks. The combination of flavors will enhance the taste of the ham and create a delicious caramelization on the outside.

Mixing the Ingredients

Before cooking the ham, it’s important to mix the ingredients together to create a flavorful glaze. The main ingredients you will need for the glaze are coke, brown sugar, and mustard.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup coke
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons mustard

To begin, pour one cup of coke into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until it starts to simmer. This will help to reduce the coke and concentrate its flavor. Once the coke has reduced by half, remove it from the heat.

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In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and mustard. Mix well to ensure that the ingredients are thoroughly combined and no lumps remain. This will create a sweet and tangy glaze that will complement the flavor of the ham.

Next, slowly pour the reduced coke into the bowl with the sugar and mustard mixture. Stir continuously as you pour to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the glaze is smooth and well combined.

Once the glaze is ready, you can proceed to coat the ham with it before cooking. The glaze will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the ham, making it delicious and juicy.

Now that the glaze is mixed and ready, it’s time to move on to the next step: preparing the ham for cooking.

Heating the Coke Mixture

Once the ham has been marinated in the Coke mixture, it’s time to cook it. First, preheat your oven to the desired temperature and let it heat up while you prepare the ham.

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Take the ham out of the marinade and place it on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Make sure to reserve the marinade for basting later. You can add some onions, cloves, or other spices to the baking dish for extra flavor.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. The cooking time will depend on the size of your ham and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule, you can cook the ham for about 20-30 minutes per pound at 325°F (160°C).

Make sure to baste the ham with the reserved Coke marinade every 15-20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful. You can also add some additional spices or herbs to the marinade for extra flavor.

Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), it is considered safe to eat. However, if you prefer a more well-done ham, you can cook it until it reaches a higher internal temperature.

Once the ham is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the ham more tender and flavorful.

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Serve the ham warm with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Cooking the Ham

Once you have prepared your ham, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious outcome:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is ideal for baking ham and will help it cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Place the ham in a large baking dish or roasting pan. It should fit comfortably without touching the sides.

If your ham has skin or fat on it, you can score it with a sharp knife in a diamond pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Glaze the Ham

Coat the ham with your chosen glaze. For a ham cooked in coke, you can use a mixture of coke, brown sugar, and spices. Apply the glaze generously, making sure to cover the entire surface of the ham.

Step 4: Bake the Ham

Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes per pound (450 grams). This means that a 10-pound (4.5 kg) ham will need to bake for about 2.5 hours.

Remember to baste the ham with the cooking juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

After the recommended cooking time, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach 145°F (63°C) for optimal safety.

If needed, you can continue baking the ham for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired temperature.

Step 6: Let it Rest

Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

Carve the ham into slices and serve it warm. Enjoy!

Q&A

How long do you cook a ham in coke?

You typically cook a ham in coke for about 20 minutes per pound. So, if you have a 5-pound ham, it would take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to cook.

What temperature should I cook a ham in coke?

You should cook a ham in coke at a temperature of 325°F (163°C).

Can I use diet coke instead of regular coke to cook a ham?

Yes, you can use diet coke instead of regular coke to cook a ham. However, keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different as the sugar in regular coke contributes to the overall taste.

Can I cook a ham in coke without adding any other ingredients?

Yes, you can cook a ham in coke without adding any other ingredients. The coke will provide flavor and help to tenderize the ham. However, some people like to add additional ingredients such as spices, herbs, or brown sugar for added taste.