How to cook a bone-in ham in air fryer

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to prepare a bone-in ham, look no further than your air fryer. This versatile kitchen appliance can achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that your family and friends will love.

Before you get started, there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure you have a bone-in ham that fits in your air fryer. Most models can accommodate a ham that weighs between 5 and 7 pounds. Additionally, check the cooking instructions on the packaging of your ham to ensure the best results.

To begin, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While the air fryer is heating up, you can prepare the ham. If your ham came with a glaze packet, open it and set it aside. If not, you can make a simple glaze by combining brown sugar, mustard, and honey in a small bowl.

Next, place the ham in the air fryer basket, making sure it is not touching the sides. Cook the ham for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the glaze every 10 minutes to add flavor and moisture.

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Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. Slice the ham and serve it with your favorite sides or use it as the highlight of a delicious sandwich.

With the help of your air fryer, cooking a bone-in ham has never been easier. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, this method will ensure that you have a delicious and impressive meal on the table in no time.

About Bone-In Ham in Air Fryer

When it comes to cooking a bone-in ham in an air fryer, you can expect a delicious and flavorful meal that is quick and easy to prepare. Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance that use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in crispy and evenly cooked dishes.

A bone-in ham is a cut of pork that contains the bone, and it is typically larger and juicier than a boneless ham. Cooking a bone-in ham in an air fryer is a great option because the hot air circulation helps to brown the outside of the ham while locking in the juices, resulting in a moist and flavorful interior.

Before cooking a bone-in ham in an air fryer, it is important to prepare the ham by removing any packaging materials, rinsing it with cold water, and patting it dry with paper towels. You can then season the ham with your desired herbs, spices, and glazes to enhance the flavor. Some popular seasoning options for ham include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and honey.

When placing the bone-in ham in the air fryer, it is important to ensure that it fits comfortably without overcrowding the basket. You may need to cut the ham into smaller portions if necessary. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the ham, but a general rule of thumb is to cook it at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes per pound. It’s recommended to check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Once the bone-in ham is cooked to perfection in the air fryer, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. Serve the ham with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a delicious meal that is sure to impress!

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What is a Bone-In Ham?

A bone-in ham is a cut of pork that includes the bone, usually the leg bone, which adds flavor and moisture to the meat. It is a popular choice for holiday meals and special occasions due to its rich texture and impressive presentation.

The bone-in ham is typically cured and smoked, giving it a distinct flavor profile. It can be prepared in various ways, including baking, grilling, and, as this article will explore, cooking in an air fryer.

When purchasing a bone-in ham, you may see different labels such as “shank portion” or “butt portion.” The shank portion comes from the lower leg and is meatier, while the butt portion comes from the upper part of the leg and has more fat marbling, which contributes to tenderness and juiciness.

Whether you choose a shank or butt portion, cooking a bone-in ham in an air fryer can be a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this delicious cut of meat while achieving crispy skin and juicy meat.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

An air fryer is a popular kitchen appliance that uses circulating hot air to cook food, making it a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. Here are some reasons why you should consider using an air fryer:

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1. Healthier Cooking Option	An air fryer uses significantly less oil compared to deep frying, resulting in lower calorie and fat content in your dishes. It helps you enjoy your favorite crispy foods with less guilt.
2. Quick and Convenient	Air fryers cook food faster than traditional cooking methods. They preheat quickly and require less cooking time, saving you time and energy in the kitchen.
3. Versatile Cooking Abilities	Air fryers are not limited to frying alone. They can also grill, roast, bake, and even reheat leftovers. This versatility allows you to prepare a wide variety of dishes with one appliance.
4. Crispy and Flavourful Results	An air fryer uses convection to create a crisp outer layer on your food while keeping the inside moist and tender. This results in deliciously crispy and flavorful dishes.
5. Easy to Clean	Most air fryer models have removable parts that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The non-stick coating on the fryer basket also makes it easy to wipe clean.

Overall, an air fryer offers a healthier, quicker, and more convenient way to cook a wide variety of delicious dishes. If you’re looking to reduce your oil consumption and still enjoy crispy, flavorful food, an air fryer is a great addition to your kitchen.

Preparing the Bone-In Ham

Before cooking a bone-in ham in an air fryer, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure it turns out delicious and perfectly cooked. Here’s how you can prepare your bone-in ham for air frying:

1. Thaw the Ham

If your bone-in ham is frozen, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator for a couple of days or use the defrost function on your microwave if you’re short on time.

2. Trim the Excess Fat

Before cooking, trim any excess fat from the ham. This will help prevent it from becoming too greasy during the cooking process. Leave a thin layer of fat to keep the ham juicy and flavorful.

3. Score the Ham

Using a sharp knife, lightly score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and give it a beautiful caramelized exterior.

4. Season the Ham

Season the ham with your preferred spices and herbs. You can use a simple combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with a blend of your favorite seasonings.

5. Apply the Glaze

Generously brush the ham with a glaze of your choice. Some popular glaze options include honey mustard, brown sugar, pineapple juice, or a combination of these ingredients. The glaze will add sweetness and enhance the flavor of the ham.

6. Let it Rest

Allow the ham to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will give the flavors time to penetrate the meat and ensure a juicier end result.

By following these preparation steps, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a delicious bone-in ham in your air fryer.

Cooking the Bone-In Ham in the Air Fryer

Cooking a bone-in ham in the air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a delicious meal. The air fryer helps to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the ham juicy and flavorful on the inside. Here are the steps to cooking a bone-in ham in the air fryer:

Ingredients:

1 bone-in ham
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the packaging from the bone-in ham and pat it dry with paper towels.
Season the ham with salt and pepper on all sides.
Place the ham in the air fryer basket, making sure it’s not touching the sides.
Cook the ham in the air fryer for 10 minutes.
Flip the ham over and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer. It should read 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham.
If the ham is not fully cooked, continue cooking in the air fryer in 5-minute increments until it reaches the desired temperature.
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked bone-in ham from the air fryer!

Serving Suggestions

Once your bone-in ham is cooked to perfection in the air fryer, it’s time to think about how you want to serve it. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to consider:

1. Glazed Ham	For a classic and sweet option, brush your cooked ham with a glaze mixture made from a combination of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices. Return the ham to the air fryer for a few minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a delicious crust.
2. Pineapple Ham	If you like the combination of sweet and savory flavors, consider adding slices of pineapple to the top of your ham before cooking. The pineapple will caramelize and add a burst of tropical sweetness to each bite.
3. Honey Mustard Ham	For a tangy twist, mix together honey and Dijon mustard to create a glaze for your ham. Brush the glaze onto the cooked ham and return it to the air fryer to create a flavorful crust.
4. Ham and Cheese Sliders	If you have leftovers or simply want to enjoy your ham in a different way, consider making ham and cheese sliders. Place slices of ham and your favorite cheese on slider rolls, then warm them in the air fryer until the cheese is melted and the rolls are toasty.
5. Ham Salad	If you have a lot of leftover ham, consider making a delicious ham salad. Chop the ham into small pieces and mix it with mayonnaise, mustard, diced pickles, and any other desired ingredients. Serve the ham salad on bread, crackers, or lettuce wraps for a tasty and easy meal.

Whether you choose to serve your bone-in ham glazed, with pineapple, or as sliders, these serving suggestions are sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy your delicious air fryer-cooked ham!

Q&A

What is an air fryer?

An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it, similar to a convection oven. It uses little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying.

Can you cook a bone-in ham in an air fryer?

Yes, you can definitely cook a bone-in ham in an air fryer. It provides a quick and convenient way to cook the ham, resulting in a crispy and flavorful exterior.

Do I need to season the bone-in ham before cooking it in the air fryer?

It is recommended to season the bone-in ham before cooking it in the air fryer. You can use a variety of seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other herbs and spices of your choice to enhance the flavor.

What can I serve with a bone-in ham cooked in an air fryer?

There are many delicious side dishes that pair well with a bone-in ham cooked in an air fryer. Some options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green bean casserole, mac and cheese, or a fresh salad. It really depends on your personal preference and the occasion.