There’s something undeniably special about a holiday ham. Whether it’s the centerpiece of your holiday spread or the showstopper of a winter dinner party, a well-prepared ham has a way of bringing people together.
But not all hams are created equal, and with so many options to choose from, finding the right one for your holiday table can feel a little overwhelming. Fortunately, Wellshire has you covered.
From selecting the perfect cut to creating a crave-worthy meal, here’s how to make your holiday ham unforgettable.
How to Choose the Right Ham
The perfect holiday ham starts with the right sourcing and a clear understanding of the different types available. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which type of ham is right for your celebration.
Smoked Ham
Smoked hams are fully cooked and infused with rich, savory flavor from real hardwood smoke.
This traditional style offers a bold, deep profile that makes it ideal for those who love classic, hearty dishes. And, because it’s ready to serve, it also makes holiday prep quick and easy.
Uncured Ham
Despite the name, uncured ham is cured, just naturally.[1] Instead of synthetic nitrates, we use celery powder and sea salt to preserve and flavor the meat.
The result? Ham that’s incredibly flavorful and delicious, but made without artificial additives. Uncured ham has a cleaner taste that pairs well with bold glazes and savory sides.
Virginia Ham
Virginia ham is a southern-style favorite known for its drier texture and complex sweet-and-salty flavor.[2] Traditionally dry-cured and aged, it’s a bold choice that delivers serious flavor with every bite.
Serve thinly sliced and warmed or at room temperature for an elegant twist on a holiday classic.
Cooking Techniques: How to Prepare Your Ham
Cooking your holiday ham doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few tried-and-true techniques (and a flavorful glaze), you’ll have a showstopper on the table in no time.
Reheating with Care
Hams typically come fully cooked, which means all you need to do is warm them gently without drying them out. Here’s how:
- Remove ham from outer foil wrapper and plastic bag.
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place Ham face down on rack in a suitably sized roasting pan.
- Add ¼” of water to bottom of pan to retain moisture. Cover ham with aluminum foil to prevent moisture from escaping.
- Using a scale of 7-8 minutes per pound, heat ham until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Check using a standard meat thermometer.
Pro tip: Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
The Best Ways to Glaze
A holiday ham without its glaze is like a gift without a ribbon. And while there are plenty of glaze variations out there, the key is finding one that enhances the natural flavors of the ham without overpowering it.
One timeless favorite is a maple bourbon-glazed ham. The combination of pure maple, a splash of bourbon, and just the right hint of spice brings out the savory depth of the meat while adding a glossy, golden finish.
No matter your glaze of choice, think of it as the final flavor layer—one that brings everything together with the right balance of sweetness and shine.
The ultimate secret to success? Timing. Glazing during the final stretch of cooking allows the sugars to caramelize without burning.[3]
Complementary Sides and Pairings
Once your ham is out of the oven and resting (let it rest for at least 10 minutes), it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it. The good news? A holiday ham is one of the most versatile mains on the menu.
Here are some ideas for side dishes that shine:
- Roasted root vegetables – Think carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips tossed in olive oil and herbs for earthy sweetness.
- Brussels sprouts with bacon – The smooth, crispiness of bacon adds depth to this classic side.
- Scalloped potatoes – This favorite is creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting.
Pairing complementary sides elevates your ham from delicious to downright decadent without complicating your holiday cooking.
Finishing Touches: How to Serve It All
Presentation goes a long way in turning a meal into a moment. Here are a few easy tips to make your holiday ham the star of the show:
- Pre-slice before guests arrive – Arrange slices on a large platter with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a rustic, seasonal feel.
- Offer extra glaze on the side – A small bowl of your maple bourbon glaze lets guests drizzle to their hearts’ content.
- Make mini sandwiches – Serve extra ham alongside soft rolls, mustards, and chutneys for a DIY leftover sandwich station.
The holidays are all about sharing, so don’t stress over perfection. A thoughtfully prepared ham and some simple accompaniments are more than enough to create lasting memories.
Taste the Wellshire Difference This Holiday Season
At the heart of every holiday feast is food prepared with love and care. At Wellshire, our holiday hams, Virginia hams, and even ready-to-glaze uncured options are crafted with simple ingredients and time-honored techniques. That means no synthetic nitrate and no shortcuts—just real flavor and quality you can taste.
Choose Wellshire, and let your table reflect what matters most this season: delicious food, heartwarming company, and ingredients you can feel proud to serve.
Sources:
Cooking with Cassandra. Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham. https://cookingwithcassandra.com/easy-brown-sugar-glazed-ham
SaltandLavender. Easy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Recipe. https://www.saltandlavender.com/easy-brussels-sprouts-and-bacon-recipe/
USDA. Hams and Food Safety. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat-catfish/hams-and-food-safety.
Virginia Tourism Corporation. The History Behind Virginia Ham. https://www.virginia.org/blog/post/virginia-ham-history/
Yahoo! Life. Cured vs. Uncured Ham: Are They Actually the Same? https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/cured-vs-uncured-ham-actually
