Baked Picnic Ham: Tender, Juicy, and Perfect for Any Occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked picnic ham is a delightful dish that delivers mouthwatering flavor and incredible tenderness. Unlike traditional ham cuts, a picnic ham comes from the pork shoulder, offering a slightly different texture with a rich, juicy bite. This recipe is ideal for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any special occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.

With a simple seasoning blend and slow roasting, this ham becomes infused with deep flavors and develops a beautifully caramelized exterior. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic for sandwiches, soups, and other delicious meals.

Ingredients

• Picnic ham (pork shoulder)
• Brown sugar
• Honey
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic cloves
• Onion
• Cloves
• Ground black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Water or broth
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Position a roasting rack inside a large baking dish.
2. Prepare the ham: Rinse the picnic ham under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Score the surface in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate better.
3. Seasoning base: Rub the ham with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper and smoked paprika. Place the ham on the roasting rack.
4. Prepare the glaze: In a saucepan, mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and a small amount of water or broth. Simmer until the glaze thickens slightly.
5. Apply the glaze: Brush half of the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to coat it well.
6. Roast the ham: Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes per pound.
7. Baste regularly: Every 30-40 minutes, remove the foil and brush more glaze over the ham.
8. Final caramelization: In the last 30 minutes, remove the foil completely and allow the glaze to caramelize, basting one last time for a glossy finish.
9. Rest before serving: Remove from the oven and let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Variations

• Spiced Citrus Glaze: Add orange juice and zest to the glaze for a bright, tangy contrast.
• Maple-Mustard Flavor: Swap honey for maple syrup and increase the mustard for a sharper taste.
• Herb-Infused Roast: Add rosemary and thyme for an aromatic depth.
• Pineapple Glaze: Incorporate pineapple juice and crushed pineapple for a tropical touch.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours (depending on ham size)
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth in a 325°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

What is a picnic ham?

A picnic ham is a cured and sometimes smoked pork shoulder, often labeled as a ham due to its similar preparation.

How do I know when the ham is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for best results.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then transfer to an oven to caramelize the glaze.

Do I have to score the ham?

Scoring helps the glaze penetrate deeper, enhancing flavor and texture.

Can I use a different glaze?

Absolutely! Experiment with mustard, fruit-based, or even bourbon-infused glazes.

Should I cover the ham while baking?

Covering helps retain moisture; remove it in the last 30 minutes for caramelization.

What’s the best way to slice a picnic ham?

Use a sharp knife and slice against the grain for the most tender bite.

Can I use the leftovers for soup?

Yes! The ham bone makes an excellent base for soups and stews.

Is picnic ham salty?

It can be. If concerned, soak it in water for a few hours before cooking.

Can I cook it faster at a higher temperature?

Slower cooking ensures tenderness; avoid rushing the process for best results.

Conclusion

Baked picnic ham is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering. With its juicy texture, caramelized glaze, and easy preparation, this recipe is a must-try for ham lovers. Whether for a holiday feast or a casual meal, this ham delivers unforgettable taste and endless meal possibilities. Try it out and enjoy the delicious results!

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