Are you looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party or a comforting, flavorful meal for a family gathering? Look no further! This corned pork ham recipe delivers incredible taste and tender, juicy meat without the fuss. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, while still enjoying a homemade cooking experience that feels special. Forget expensive takeout – let's dive into this satisfying and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound boneless pork shoulder (butt roast), also called a Boston Butt
- 1 cup coarse kosher salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 4 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 gallon water
Instructions:
Preparing the Brine:
- In a large stockpot, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, light brown sugar, peppercorns, coriander seeds, mustard seeds, bay leaves, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring until the salt and sugars are completely dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let the brine cool completely. This is crucial to prevent cooking the pork before it’s even brined.
Brining the Pork:
- Once the brine is completely cool, submerge the pork shoulder in the brine. Ensure the pork is fully submerged; you may need to use a plate or a weight to keep it under the liquid.
- Cover the pot and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or preferably 24-36 hours. The longer it brines, the more flavorful and tender the pork will become.
Cooking the Corned Pork Ham:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Remove the pork from the brine and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat the pork dry with paper towels.
- Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan.
- Add about 1 cup of water to the bottom of the roasting pan. This helps to keep the pork moist during cooking.
- Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil.
- Roast for approximately 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and the internal temperature reaches 190-195°F (88-91°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; this is the key to perfectly cooked pork.
Resting & Serving:
- Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest, covered, for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
- Slice the pork against the grain and serve. This corned pork ham is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking, or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
- Add other aromatics: Experiment with adding other spices and herbs to your brine, such as juniper berries, cloves, or allspice.
- Make it a slow cooker recipe: For even easier cooking, you can cook the pork shoulder in a slow cooker after brining. Place the brined and rinsed pork in the slow cooker, add 1 cup of water, and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until fork-tender.
- Leftovers: Leftover corned pork ham can be shredded and used in sandwiches, salads, or tacos. It's also great cold, making it a perfect meal prep option for easy lunches.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of the pork shoulder and the number of servings. However, as a general guideline, a serving of this corned pork ham is relatively high in protein and can be part of a healthy meal plan. Consult an online nutritional calculator for more precise information using your specific ingredients and serving size.
This corned pork ham is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!