Are you dreaming of a tender, juicy ham dinner but short on time? Then look no further! This post is dedicated to exploring the magic of the pressure cooker when it comes to cooking ham. We’ll show you how to transform a humble piece of ham into a delicious, healthy meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. These easy recipes are perfect for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike, offering a quick dinner solution without compromising on flavor.
Why Pressure Cook Your Ham?
Pressure cooking ham offers several significant advantages. Firstly, it dramatically reduces cooking time compared to traditional oven methods. Secondly, it locks in moisture, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful ham. This method is a fantastic way to elevate your homemade cooking skills and create truly delicious dishes. Whether you're looking for healthy meals or simply want a quick dinner idea, pressure cooking is the way to go.
Ingredients: Pressure Cooker Ham with Honey Glaze
This recipe uses a bone-in ham for maximum flavor, but boneless works equally well. Adjust cooking time depending on the size and thickness of your ham.
- 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, pre-cooked
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham: Rinse the ham under cold water and place it in the pressure cooker.
- Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pressure cooker. This adds moisture and prevents the ham from drying out.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Glaze the Ham: Pour the honey glaze over the top of the ham, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the pressure cooker to high pressure for 15-20 minutes for a 4-6 pound ham. Adjust cooking time accordingly for larger or smaller hams. Allow for a natural pressure release for at least 20 minutes, followed by a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the ham from the pressure cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pressure Cooker Ham:
- For an even glaze, baste the ham halfway through the cooking process.
- Don't overcook the ham! Overcooked ham can become dry. Always check the internal temperature, it should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked thoroughly.
- Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, salads, or quiches. It's also great for breakfast!
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Brown Sugar Glaze: Replace the honey with an equal amount of brown sugar for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Pineapple Glaze: Combine honey with crushed pineapple for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 (depending on ham size and glaze)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This pressure cooker ham recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal, perfect for any occasion. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and clever cooking techniques to create truly memorable dishes. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking.