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December 10, 2024
In this article, we will guide you through the steps of cooking a delicious Felt’s Country Ham. Felt’s Country Ham is a traditional Southern dish that is known for its rich, smoky flavor and tender meat. The ham is carefully cured and aged to perfection, resulting in a unique and unforgettable taste. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you will be able to follow these easy steps to prepare a mouthwatering Felt’s Country Ham for yourself and your loved ones.
To start, it is important to properly prepare the ham before cooking. Before cooking the ham, it is recommended to soak it in water overnight to remove some of the saltiness. This step is crucial as it helps to balance the flavors and ensure that the ham is not overly salty. Once the ham has soaked, it is ready to be cooked.
Next, you will need to decide on a cooking method. There are several ways to cook a Felt’s Country Ham, including baking, boiling, or grilling. Each method will result in a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose the one that suits your preferences best. Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to cook the ham slowly and at a low temperature to ensure that it cooks evenly and retains its tenderness.
Pro tip: You can enhance the flavors of the ham by adding a glaze or seasoning. A popular glaze option is a combination of brown sugar, honey, and mustard, but feel free to experiment with different flavors to create your own unique twist.
While the cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the ham, it is generally recommended to cook a Felt’s Country Ham for about 20 minutes per pound. Utilize a meat thermometer to ensure that the ham has reached the appropriate internal temperature. Once the ham is cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
In conclusion, cooking a Felt’s Country Ham is a delightful culinary experience that will impress your taste buds and guests. With proper preparation and cooking techniques, you can enjoy a succulent and flavorful ham that truly represents the essence of Southern cuisine. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – your family and friends will thank you!
Gathering the necessary ingredients
Before you start cooking your felts country ham, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Felts country ham | 1 |
| Water | enough to cover the ham |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Whole cloves | 10 |
| Honey | 1/4 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
Make sure you have everything on this list ready before you start cooking your felts country ham.
Preparing the ham for cooking
Before cooking your felts country ham, it’s important to properly prepare it. Follow these simple steps to ensure a delicious and perfect ham:
Cleaning the ham
Start by rinsing the ham under cold water to remove any excess salt. You can also soak it in cold water for a few hours to further reduce the saltiness if desired. Pat the ham dry with paper towels.
Trimming the fat
Trim off any excess fat from the ham, leaving a thin layer for added flavor and moisture. Remove any tough outer skin as well, if present.
Alternatively, you can choose to glaze the ham with a sweet or savory mixture, like brown sugar and mustard, before cooking. This will create a caramelized and flavorful crust.
Score the ham
Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts across the surface of the ham, about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the fat render and penetrate the meat during cooking, resulting in a juicy and tender ham.
Once the ham is properly prepared, you are ready to move on to the cooking process. Follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures for the best results, and enjoy your delicious felts country ham!
Cooking the felts country ham
Before cooking the felts country ham, it is important to properly prepare and season the meat. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and flavorful result:
Step 1: Soaking the ham
Start by soaking the felts country ham in cold water to remove excess salt. Place the ham in a large pot or container and cover it with water. Let the ham soak for at least 24 hours, changing the water every 4-6 hours. This will help reduce the saltiness of the ham.
Step 2: Preparing the glaze
While the ham is soaking, prepare the glaze by combining brown sugar, mustard, and other desired spices or flavors. Mix well until the glaze is smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Slow roasting the ham
After soaking, remove the ham from the water and discard the soaking liquid. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up. Score the surface of the ham with shallow cuts in a diamond pattern.
Brush the ham with the prepared glaze, making sure to coat the entire surface. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Cook the ham for about 15 minutes per pound.
Halfway through the cooking time, remove the ham from the oven and baste it with more glaze. Cover the ham again and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Letting the ham rest
Once cooked, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and tender ham.
Serve the felts country ham with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a delicious meal!
Adding flavor with a delicious glaze
A glazed country ham is a perfect addition to any holiday meal or special occasion. It adds a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that complements the rich and savory taste of the ham. Here are some simple steps to create a mouthwatering glaze for your felts country ham:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, and a pinch of ground cloves. Stir well to combine.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the glaze until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the glaze from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, carefully score the surface of the felts country ham in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush the glaze generously over the entire surface of the ham.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil and roast it in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Every 30 minutes, remove the ham from the oven and baste it with the glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
With its succulent texture and the addition of a delicious glaze, your felts country ham will become the star of any meal. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors that will surely impress your guests.
Serving and enjoying the finished dish
Once your felts country ham is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. Here are a few tips on how to serve it and make the most of its flavors:
1. Slicing the ham
Start by slicing the ham into thin, even slices. A sharp knife works best for this task. You can slice it right before serving or prepare the slices in advance and reheat them when it’s time to eat. The choice is yours.
2. Accompaniments
A felts country ham pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Some popular choices include:
| • Biscuits or cornbread | • Mustard or honey mustard |
| • Red-eye gravy | • Collard greens or green beans |
| • Grits or mashed potatoes | • Fresh fruit or pickled vegetables |
Feel free to mix and match these accompaniments to create a flavor-packed meal that satisfies your taste buds.
When it comes to enjoying the dish, there are no strict rules. You can serve the ham as the main course, use it in sandwiches, or incorporate it into various recipes. The key is to experiment and find out what you prefer.
Lastly, remember to savor every bite of your felts country ham. The rich and smoky flavors make it a true Southern delicacy that deserves to be enjoyed and appreciated.
Tips and Variations for Cooking Felt’s Country Ham
When it comes to cooking Felt’s country ham, there are several tips and variations that can help enhance the flavor and make it a memorable meal. Here are some recommended techniques to consider:
1. Soaking Method
One popular method is to soak the ham before cooking to remove some of the saltiness. Start by rinsing the ham under cold water, then place it in a large container or sink filled with water. Let it soak for at least 24 hours, changing the water every 4-6 hours. This will help reduce the saltiness of the ham and make it more palatable.
2. Baking Method
The most common way to cook a Felt’s country ham is by baking it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham, fat side up, on a rack in a roasting pan. You can add a little water or apple cider to the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist. Cook for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Glazing Options
To enhance the flavor and add a touch of sweetness, consider glazing the ham before baking. Some popular glaze options include a mixture of brown sugar and mustard, honey and pineapple juice, or maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Apply the glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and baste it on the ham every 10 minutes for a caramelized and delicious coating.
4. Slicing Techniques
When it’s time to slice the cooked ham, it’s important to take the right approach. Start by cutting off the skin and any excess fat. Then, carve thin slices against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve the ham warm with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
These tips and variations will help you create a delicious and flavorful Felt’s country ham. Whether you’re cooking it for a special occasion or simply want to savor its unique taste, following these techniques will ensure a memorable meal.
Q&A
What is a country ham?
A country ham is a type of cured ham that is usually salt-cured and aged for several months. It is a traditional Southern American delicacy known for its rich, savory flavor.
How do I cook a country ham?
To cook a country ham, first, soak it in water for 24-36 hours to remove excess salt. Then, place it in a large pot, cover it with water, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes per pound. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Can I bake a country ham instead of boiling it?
Yes, you can bake a country ham instead of boiling it. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and place the ham in a roasting pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Baking will result in a slightly different texture and flavor compared to boiling.
What are some traditional side dishes to serve with country ham?
Some traditional side dishes to serve with country ham include biscuits, grits, red-eye gravy, fried apples, collard greens, and black-eyed peas. These dishes complement the rich, salty flavor of the ham and add variety to the meal.
Can I freeze leftover country ham?
Yes, you can freeze leftover country ham. Slice it into portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer bag. Properly frozen country ham can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
What is a country ham?
A country ham is a type of dry-cured ham that is typically made from the hind leg of a pig. It is salt-cured and aged for several months, resulting in a rich, intense flavor.
How do I select a good quality country ham?
When selecting a country ham, look for one that has a deep, reddish color and a firm texture. Make sure there are no signs of mold or excessive fat. Additionally, check the packaging date to ensure freshness.