Olivia Carter
Country ham slices are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. Often cured and smoked to enhance their flavor, country ham slices can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in a skillet. This traditional method of cooking allows you to control the doneness and texture of the ham slices, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Before cooking the country ham slices, it’s important to know that they are typically salty. Therefore, it’s recommended to soak the slices in cold water for about 4 to 6 hours to remove some of the saltiness. This step is optional, but it can help balance the flavors and make the ham slices more enjoyable to eat.
To cook the country ham slices in a skillet, start by preheating the skillet over medium-high heat. You can add a little oil or butter to prevent the slices from sticking to the pan. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the ham slices in the pan and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned.
For added flavor, you can brush the ham slices with a glaze or sauce of your choice. This can be a mixture of brown sugar, mustard, and honey, or a simple blend of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Brush the glaze onto the ham slices during the last few minutes of cooking, and allow it to caramelise slightly, creating a delicious crust.
Once the ham slices are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result. Country ham slices cooked in a skillet are perfect as a main course, served with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Now that you know how to cook country ham slices in a skillet, you can enjoy this delicious dish anytime. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a quick and easy meal, country ham slices cooked in a skillet are a flavorful and satisfying choice.
What is country ham?
Country ham is a type of cured ham that is popular in the Southern United States. It is made from the hind leg of a hog and is typically dry cured with a combination of salt, sugar, and other seasonings. The curing process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the desired flavor and texture.
Unlike other types of ham, country ham is not usually smoked. Instead, it is traditionally air-dried or aged in a controlled environment. This allows the flavors to develop and intensify over time.
Flavor and texture
Country ham has a distinctively rich and salty flavor. It is often described as being more robust and intense compared to other types of ham. The saltiness comes from the curing process, which helps to preserve the meat and enhance its flavor.
In terms of texture, country ham can vary depending on how it is prepared. Some people prefer to slice it very thin, resulting in a chewy and slightly dry texture. Others prefer thicker slices, which can be more tender and juicy. The texture can also be influenced by factors such as the age of the ham and the length of the curing process.
Common uses
Country ham can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It is often served as the centerpiece of a special occasion meal or as a festive addition to a holiday spread. It can be sliced and eaten as is, or it can be heated and served alongside biscuits or grits.
Country ham can also be used as an ingredient in various recipes. It can be diced and added to omelets or quiches, crumbled into salads, or wrapped around vegetables or seafood for added flavor. Its intense saltiness can help to enhance the overall taste of a dish.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rich and intense flavor | High salt content |
| Versatile ingredient | Can be expensive |
| Long shelf life | Requires time for curing |
Preparing the ham
Before cooking, it is important to prepare your country ham slices properly. Follow these instructions to ensure that your ham slices are flavorful and tender:
- Remove the ham slices from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- If the ham slices have a visible rind, trim it off using a sharp knife.
- Score the fat on the outside of the ham slices by making shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern. This will help the fat render and add flavor.
- Optional: Some people like to soak their country ham slices in water or milk overnight to remove some of the salty flavor. If desired, place the ham slices in a large bowl or container and cover with water or milk. Refrigerate overnight and discard the liquid before cooking.
Once you have prepared the ham slices, they are ready to be cooked in a skillet. Follow the remaining steps in this recipe to complete the cooking process and enjoy delicious country ham slices!
Trimming excess fat
If your country ham slices have a thick layer of fat on the outside, it’s best to trim off some of the excess fat before cooking. Too much fat can make the slices greasy and overpower the flavor of the ham.
Start by laying the country ham slices flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully trim away any large chunks of fat, making sure to leave a thin layer of fat on the slices. This will help keep the ham moist and flavorful during cooking.
Remember to handle the knife with caution and to keep your fingers out of the way while trimming. It’s best to work slowly and carefully to avoid any accidents.
Once you have trimmed the excess fat, the country ham slices are ready to be cooked in a skillet.
Pro tip: If you prefer a leaner option, you can also choose to remove all the fat from the ham slices. However, keep in mind that this may result in a slightly drier texture and less rich flavor.
Soaking the ham
Soaking the country ham slices before cooking is an important step as it helps to remove some of the saltiness and rehydrate the meat. Follow these steps to properly soak your country ham slices:
- Fill a large bowl or container with enough cold water to fully submerge the ham slices.
- Carefully place the ham slices into the water, ensuring that they are completely covered.
- Let the ham slices soak in the water for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight for the best results.
- During the soaking process, it’s recommended to change the water a few times to further reduce the saltiness.
- After the soaking period, remove the ham slices from the water and pat them dry with paper towels.
By soaking the ham slices, you’ll create a more balanced flavor and ensure a tender and juicy result when cooked.
Cooking the ham slices
Once you have your country ham slices ready, it’s time to cook them to perfection in a skillet. Follow these simple steps to achieve deliciously tender and flavorful ham:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Place the ham slices in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and crispy.
- For a moist and tender result, cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the ham slices to steam.
- Remove the ham slices from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Now you can enjoy the deliciousness of perfectly cooked country ham slices. Serve them alongside your favorite breakfast dishes or incorporate them into a tasty sandwich or salad. The possibilities are endless!
Preheating the skillet
Before cooking country ham slices in a skillet, it’s important to preheat the skillet properly. This will help ensure that the ham slices cook evenly and develop a delicious crust on the outside.
To preheat the skillet, start by placing it on the stovetop over medium heat. Allow the skillet to heat up for a few minutes until it becomes hot to the touch.
Choosing the right skillet
When preheating the skillet, it’s important to choose the right type of skillet. A cast iron skillet is recommended for cooking country ham slices as it provides even heat distribution and retains heat well.
If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet can also work well. Avoid using non-stick skillets as they may not give the ham slices the desired crust.
Add a thin layer of oil
After preheating the skillet, add a thin layer of oil to the bottom of the pan. This will prevent the ham slices from sticking to the skillet and help them develop a crispy sear.
Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable oil or canola oil for this step. Pour a small amount of oil into the skillet and then use a pastry brush or a paper towel to spread it evenly across the bottom of the skillet.
FAQ
What is country ham?
Country ham is a type of cured and smoked ham that is typically served in the southern United States. It is known for its salty and savory flavor.
How do I cook country ham slices in a skillet?
To cook country ham slices in a skillet, start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Place the ham slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy. Make sure to keep an eye on them, as they can cook quickly. Once they are done, remove them from the skillet and serve immediately.
Can I cook country ham slices in the oven instead of a skillet?
Yes, you can cook country ham slices in the oven instead of a skillet. To do this, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the ham slices on a baking sheet and cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once they are done, remove them from the oven and serve immediately.
