The holidays are a time for gathering around the table, sharing joy, and indulging in delicious food that brings everyone together.
And what better way to make your celebration unforgettable than with a beautiful holiday ham?
At Wellshire, we believe that a perfectly cooked ham is not just a meal—it’s the centerpiece of your holiday feast. That’s why we’re walking you through how to select, cook, and enjoy a holiday ham that will have everyone talking.
Selecting the Perfect Holiday Ham
The first step to a successful holiday feast is selecting the right ham. With so many options on the market, it can feel overwhelming—but at Wellshire, we make it simple. Our holiday hams are crafted with care, using only the finest ingredients and traditional methods to deliver a superior taste.
Here’s what to look for:
- Quality of ingredients – Wellshire hams are made from responsibly sourced pork, and they’re free of artificial ingredients and preservatives. We focus on delivering a natural, clean taste that shines through in every bite.
- Semi-boneless vs. boneless – A semi-boneless ham offers a richer, more flavorful experience and is ideal for large gatherings, as the bone adds extra flavor while the meat remains tender. A boneless ham, on the other hand, is easier to carve and works well for smaller dinners or a quick meal.
- Spiral-sliced vs. whole ham – Spiral-sliced hams are pre-sliced for convenience, making serving a breeze. If you want the full ham experience, however, a whole ham allows for a bit more personalization in your cooking and presentation.
Cooking The Perfect Holiday Ham
Once you’ve selected your perfect ham, it’s time to cook it! Whether you’re preparing a spiral-cut or whole ham, our easy cooking method will have you serving up a feast in no time.
For the holidays, we prefer to flirt with a bit of sweetness—specifically in the form of our Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham Glaze family recipe.
To prepare, you’ll need:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2oz pineapple juice
- 1oz honey
- 3oz spicy brown mustard
- Wellshire Ham
To cook your holiday masterpiece:
- Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 325°F.
- Prepare the glaze – In a microwave-safe container, combine the brown sugar and pineapple juice. Heat it for two minutes. After heating, add in the honey and brown mustard.
- Score the ham – If using a whole ham, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. (A spiral-sliced ham will already have this pattern.) This helps the glaze soak into the meat, making it even more flavorful.
- Glaze the ham – Brush a generous amount of the glaze onto the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also reserve some glaze to apply later.
- Roast the ham – Place the ham in a roasting pan, and bake for 15-18 minutes per pound. For a half-ham, this typically takes around 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours, while a whole ham may need up to 4 ½ hours. Make sure to baste the ham with more glaze every 30 minutes for that perfect caramelized finish.
- Check for doneness – The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Rest before serving – Let your ham rest for about 15 minutes after removing it from the oven to lock in the juices. Then, carve, serve, and savor.
Creative Ways to Serve Your Holiday Ham
Your Wellshire ham is delicious on its own, but why not elevate it with a few sides and accompaniments? Here are some creative ideas to turn your holiday ham into a complete holiday spread:
- Sausage stuffing – Grab your favorite Wellshire sausage and mix it with onions, celery, garlic, and sage for a savory, salivating holiday side.
- Bacon-wrapped asparagus – Try tender asparagus spears wrapped in Wellshire’s smoky bacon and roasted to perfection for a crispy, flavorful bite.
- Bacon bit corn salad – A refreshing side with a twist—tender corn, fresh herbs, and crispy Wellshire bacon bits tossed together in a light, tangy dressing.
- Pumpkin apple soup– A warm, velvety soup blending the sweetness of apples with the earthy richness of pumpkin, creating the perfect cozy start to your meal. Add bacon for a savory crunch.
If you have leftovers, combine your holiday ham and eggs with your favorite veggies, cheeses, and spices for a holiday morning Ham and Cheese Frittata that’ll carry over last night’s festive flavor into a cozy, satisfying breakfast.
Enjoying Your Ham with Loved Ones (and Wellshire)
A holiday ham isn’t just about the food—it’s about sharing the experience with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying an intimate meal, your Wellshire holiday ham will set the stage for cherished memories.
Ready to bring the perfect holiday ham to your table? You can find Wellshire hams at Whole Foods. Our premium meats are the perfect way to elevate your holiday meals, so you can focus on what matters most—enjoying time with your loved ones.
Sources:
Epicurious. How to Cook a Ham. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/baked-ham-360789
