Country ham slices are a delicious and savory addition to any breakfast or brunch. They are known for their smoky flavor and firm texture. While there are several ways to cook country ham slices, one popular method is to cook them in water. This method helps to remove some of the excess saltiness that is often associated with country ham, resulting in a more balanced and flavorful dish.

Before cooking the country ham slices, it is important to prepare them properly. Start by rinsing the slices under cold water to remove any excess salt. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This step will help to ensure that the ham slices are not overly salty.

To cook the country ham slices in water, fill a large pot with enough water to cover the slices. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the ham slices to the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the ham to simmer in the water for about 20-25 minutes per pound. This will help to cook the ham slices thoroughly and ensure that they are tender and juicy.

Tip: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the ham slices in water overnight before cooking them. This will help to further reduce the saltiness.

Once the country ham slices are fully cooked, they can be served immediately. They pair well with scrambled eggs, biscuits, or grits for a classic Southern breakfast. The cooked ham can also be used as a flavorful addition to sandwiches or salads. However you choose to enjoy them, country ham slices cooked in water are sure to be a tasty and satisfying meal.

Preparing the Country Ham Slices

Before cooking the country ham slices in water, it is important to prepare them properly to enhance their flavor and texture. Follow these steps to ensure the best results:

1. First, rinse the country ham slices under cold running water to remove any excess salt. This step is crucial as it helps to desalinate the ham and reduce its saltiness.

2. After rinsing, pat the ham slices dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This will help the ham to brown and develop a crispy crust during cooking.

3. Place the ham slices in a large pot or skillet and add enough water to cover them completely. It is essential to use sufficient water to ensure even cooking and to prevent the ham from drying out.

4. Optional: Add herbs, spices, or aromatics such as bay leaves, cloves, or garlic to the pot to infuse additional flavors into the ham slices.

5. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let the ham simmer gently. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the slices, but a general guideline is to simmer the ham for about 25 minutes per pound.

6. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully remove the ham slices from the pot and transfer them to a serving plate or cutting board. Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

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By following these simple steps, you can prepare country ham slices in water that are tender, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy!

Soaking the Ham Slices in Water

Before cooking country ham slices, it is important to soak them in water to remove any excess salt and to rehydrate the meat. This step will help to create a more balanced and flavorful end result. Follow these simple instructions to properly soak your ham slices:

What You’ll Need:

  • Ham slices
  • Large bowl or container
  • Cold water

Instructions:

  1. Start by placing the ham slices in a large bowl or container.
  2. Fill the bowl or container with enough cold water to completely cover the ham slices.
  3. Cover the bowl or container with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the ham slices to soak for a minimum of 4 hours, but preferably overnight.
  4. After the soaking time is complete, remove the ham slices from the water and discard the soaking liquid.
  5. Rinse the ham slices under cold running water to remove any remaining salt or residue.

Now that your ham slices have been soaked and rinsed, they are ready to be cooked. You can proceed with your preferred cooking method, whether it be frying, baking, or grilling. Enjoy your delicious country ham slices!

Boiling the Ham Slices

Boiling country ham slices is a simple and effective way to cook them. Follow these steps to ensure the ham slices are cooked to perfection:

  1. Fill a large pot with water, enough to fully submerge the ham slices.
  2. Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare the ham slices by trimming any excess fat or skin.
  4. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the ham slices into the pot.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium-low, maintaining a gentle simmer.
  6. Cook the ham slices for approximately 25-30 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C).
  7. During the cooking process, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
  8. After the ham slices are cooked, remove them from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon, and transfer them to a serving platter.
  9. Let the ham slices rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute.

Boiled country ham slices are versatile and can be enjoyed on their own, added to sandwiches, or incorporated into various recipes. Remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Adding Flavor to the Ham Slices

While boiling country ham slices in water can result in a delicious meal, adding some additional flavors can elevate the taste even more. Here are some ideas on how to add flavor to your ham slices:

1. Spices and herbs

Using spices and herbs is an excellent way to enhance the flavor of your ham slices. You can try adding a variety of herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to the boiling water. Additionally, you can experiment with spices like black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika to add an extra kick to the dish.

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2. Broth or stock

Instead of using plain water, you can substitute some or all of the water with chicken or vegetable broth. Broth or stock adds depth and richness to the ham slices, giving them a more savory taste. You can use store-bought broth or make your own with bones, vegetables, and spices.

3. Citrus fruits

Adding citrus fruits like lemon or orange can bring a bright and refreshing flavor to your ham slices. Simply squeeze the juice of a citrus fruit into the boiling water or add in some lemon or orange slices. The citrusy undertones will complement the rich and salty taste of the ham.

4. Sweet glaze

If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider applying a glaze to your ham slices after boiling them. You can make a simple glaze using ingredients like brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, or Dijon mustard. Brush the glaze onto the ham slices and place them under the broiler for a few minutes until caramelized and sticky.

By experimenting with these flavor-enhancing techniques, you can take your country ham slices from delicious to extraordinary. Enjoy the process of discovering your favorite combination of flavors and make your meal even more memorable.

Simmering the Ham Slices

Once the ham slices have been soaked, they are ready to be simmered. Simmering is a gentle cooking method that helps retain the natural juices and flavors of the ham. Follow these steps to simmer the ham slices:

Step 1: Fill a large pot with enough water to completely cover the ham slices. For every pound of ham, use about 4 cups of water.

Step 2: Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Once the water is boiling, lower the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Carefully add the ham slices to the pot, making sure they are fully submerged in the water.

Step 5: Cover the pot with a lid and let the ham slices simmer for about 20 minutes per pound. For example, if you have 2 pounds of ham slices, simmer them for approximately 40 minutes.

Step 6: During the simmering process, occasionally skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface of the water.

Step 7: After the specified cooking time, remove the pot from heat and carefully take out the ham slices using tongs or a slotted spoon.

Step 8: Place the ham slices on a serving platter and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Simmering the ham slices in water helps to keep them moist and tender, making them a delicious addition to any meal. Enjoy!

Serving the Cooked Country Ham Slices

Once the country ham slices are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy their delicious taste. Here are some serving suggestions:

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1. Plating Options

  • Place the cooked country ham slices on a serving platter to create an impressive presentation.
  • For a more casual serving style, arrange the slices on individual plates or serving bowls.
  • You can also serve the slices on a bed of fresh lettuce or mixed greens for added color and texture.

2. Accompaniments

  • Country ham pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with biscuits, cornbread, or bread rolls to create a classic Southern meal.
  • Add some sweetness to the dish by including honey or maple syrup to drizzle over the ham slices.
  • You can also include some tangy flavors by serving the ham with mustard or a tangy barbeque sauce.

3. Side Dishes

  • Complete your meal by serving the cooked country ham slices with a range of side dishes.
  • Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or Southern-style collard greens are popular choices for side dishes.
  • Consider including some traditional Southern sides such as macaroni and cheese, corn pudding, or black-eyed peas.

With these serving suggestions, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal using the cooked country ham slices. Enjoy!

FAQ

What is country ham?

Country ham is a type of cured and smoked ham that is popular in the southern United States. It is typically made from the hind leg of a pig and is known for its salty and savory flavor.

Can I cook country ham slices in water?

Yes, you can cook country ham slices in water. This method helps to remove some of the saltiness from the ham and makes it more tender. To cook country ham slices in water, bring a pot of water to a boil and then add the ham slices. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the ham is heated through.

What other cooking methods can I use for country ham slices?

Aside from cooking country ham slices in water, you can also pan-fry, bake, or grill them. Pan-frying the ham slices in a little bit of oil or butter can give them a crispy exterior, while baking or grilling can help to caramelize the sugars in the ham, creating a delicious glaze.

How long should I cook country ham slices in water?

The cooking time for country ham slices in water will depend on the thickness of the slices. As a general guideline, you can simmer thin slices for about 10-15 minutes and thicker slices for 15-20 minutes. It’s important to make sure the ham is heated through before serving.

What can I serve with country ham slices?

Country ham slices can be served with a variety of side dishes. Popular options include grits, biscuits, scrambled eggs, hash browns, or fresh fruits and vegetables. Country ham also pairs well with sweet and tangy condiments such as honey mustard or red-eye gravy.

What is country ham?

Country ham is a type of cured and smoked ham that is typically made from the hind legs of a pig. It is a popular dish in Southern cuisine.