Turkey ham is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional pork ham. Made from turkey thigh meat, it has a similar flavor and texture to regular ham but contains less fat and sodium. Cooking up a tasty turkey ham at home is easy with the right techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to make a mouthwatering turkey ham meal.
Choosing the Right Turkey Ham
When selecting a turkey ham, you’ll want to look for a few key qualities:
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Well-marinated and smoked – For the best flavor, choose a ham that has been injected with a flavorful brine and slow-smoked over fragrant woods like hickory or applewood. This imparts a delicious smoky ham taste
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High quality – Opt for a reputable brand known for premium turkey hams. Lower quality versions can be dry or bland.
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Fully cooked – Look for one that is pre-cooked for convenience This allows you to heat up and serve immediately.
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Boneless – Boneless turkey hams are easier to carve and serve
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Glazed or unglazed – Glazed options have a sweet, sticky coating while unglazed have a more savory smoked ham flavor.
For a small dinner, a 3-4 lb turkey ham is sufficient. For larger gatherings, plan for 1/2 pound per person.
Thawing a Frozen Turkey Ham
If you purchased a frozen turkey ham, you’ll need to properly thaw it before cooking. There are two recommended methods:
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In the refrigerator: Place frozen ham in a tray to catch drips. Allow 24 hours per pound, thawing for 1-3 days.
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In cold water: Submerge ham in sealed bag in cold water, changing water every 30 mins. About 30 mins per pound.
Avoid thawing at room temp, which can cause bacterial growth. Cook ham immediately after thawing.
Preparing and Seasoning the Turkey Ham
Once thawed, prep your turkey ham with these simple steps:
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Remove packaging and rinse ham under cool water to wash away excess brine or juices. Pat dry thoroughly.
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Score the skin by making shallow diagonal cuts across the surface. This helps the ham absorb any glaze.
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Apply seasoning by rubbing the ham all over with spices, brown sugar, or a dry glaze mix.
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Let stand at room temp for 30 mins to 1 hour before cooking for even heating.
How to Cook a Turkey Ham – 3 Easy Methods
There are several foolproof ways to cook up a juicy turkey ham at home.
Oven Baked Turkey Ham
Baking in the oven lets you easily baste and glaze during cooking.
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Heat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a baking dish or roasting pan.
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Cover with foil and bake 20-25 mins per lb until internal temp reaches 140°F.
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Uncover last 30 mins and brush with glaze. Bake until 160°F internal temp.
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Rest 10 mins before slicing to let juices settle.
Slow Cooker Turkey Ham
Using a slow cooker allows the ham to become tender and infused with flavor.
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Place ham in a slow cooker fat-side up. Pour 1 cup broth, juice, or water in bottom.
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Cook on low 8-10 hours until fork tender. Baste with glaze last hour.
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Rest 30 mins before serving. Slice and spoon over cooking juices.
Grilled Turkey Ham
Grilling gives delicious charred flavor. Cook over indirect heat to prevent burning.
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Preheat grill to medium heat. If ham is glazed, apply half before grilling.
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Grill ham covered over indirect heat for 12-15 mins per lb until 140°F internal temp.
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Brush on remaining glaze and grill 10 more mins until 160°F internal temp.
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Let rest 5 mins then slice to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Turkey ham makes the perfect entrée for holiday meals or weekly dinners. Here are some serving ideas:
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Slice ham and arrange on a platter with sprigs of rosemary or thyme.
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Offer condiments like mustard, horseradish, or cranberry sauce.
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Pair with classic sides like roasted potatoes, sweet potatoes, or green bean casserole.
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Add to omelets, quiches, pasta bakes, and soups.
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Use sliced ham in sandwiches, paninis, and pressed Cubanos.
With its versatility and flavor, turkey ham is sure to become a favorite mealtime protein. Experiment with different prep methods, glazes, and serving suggestions for fantastic results.
Homemade Turkey Ham Recipe
private chefs and event catering
Pineapple Honey Glazed Turkey Ham
FAQ
How long does turkey ham need to be cooked?
COOKING INSTRUCTIONS
Remove packaging and place the ham with cut side down in roasting pan. Add 1/4 inch of water to the bottom of pan. Cover with lid or tin foil. Heat 40-50 minutes or to an internal temprature of 145°F .
What is turkey ham good for?
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Low fat, high protein:Compared to regular ham, turkey ham is considered a leaner option with less fat and more protein, making it a good choice for health-conscious individuals.
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Sandwich staple:The most common use for turkey ham is in sandwiches, where it can be layered with cheese, vegetables, and condiments on bread.
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Flavor profile:While not identical to pork ham, turkey ham has a similar taste and texture, allowing for easy substitution in many recipes.
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Other uses:Beyond sandwiches, turkey ham can be added to salads, scrambled eggs, pasta dishes, or even used as a wrap filling.
What is the proper method of cooking for a ham?
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and adjust oven racks to fit the ham.
- Remove all packaging, including the plastic disc on the flat side of the ham.
- Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake 10-12 minutes per pound for boneless ham or 15 minutes per pound for bone-in ham.
What’s the difference between ham and turkey ham?
There are some basic differences between turkey ham and pork ham. Turkey Ham is leaner than pork, making it a healthier choice. Pork ham is saltier and fattier. Generally speaking, a Turkey Ham costs a little more than traditional ham. Both taste similar to each other.
Can you cook a turkey ham like a traditional ham?
Yes, you can cook a turkey ham in a similar way to traditional ham. However, it is important to note that turkey ham is leaner and may require a shorter cooking time. It is best to follow the cooking instructions provided with your specific turkey ham product or adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent the meat from drying out.
Is honey baked ham as good as regular ham?
The addition of honey will affect the calorie content of the food. One tablespoon of honey contributes to approximately 64 calories. In addition, the use of heat when making baked ham will reduce the quality of the honey.
How long to cook a turkey ham?
Cover the turkey ham with aluminum foil to help keep it moist throughout the cooking process. Bake the turkey ham for approximately 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and baste the turkey ham with its natural juices or a glaze of your choice.
How do you eat a turkey ham?
Carve the turkey ham into thin slices and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for an added touch of flavor and elegance. Serve the turkey ham with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget the condiments!
What is a turkey ham?
A turkey ham is a type of meat that is made from the thigh meat of a turkey. It is similar to regular ham in terms of taste and texture, but it is leaner and typically has less fat and sodium compared to traditional ham. It is a popular alternative for those who prefer a healthier option or do not consume pork.
How to cook a turkey ham in a crock pot?
Bake the turkey ham 15 minutes per pound and uncovered. While baking, baste once or twice more using a total of ¼ of the glaze on the turkey ham. 5. Now, place the pineapple chunks in ¼ of marmalade in oven proof dish. Bake for 10-15 minutes. 6. Serve with ham. Tip: Glaze the remaining marmalade over turkey ham slices. 2.)