How Long to Smoke a Ham: A Complete Guide

Smoked ham is a holiday favorite, known for its sweet, smoky, and slightly salty flavor. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to prepare, smoke, and serve a delicious smoked ham, specifically using a Traeger pellet grill.

What is Smoked Ham?

Smoked ham is made from "fresh ham," which is first cured with salt, sugar, and spices, then slowly smoked to infuse it with a rich, smoky flavor while preserving its tenderness.

Double Smoking a Ham

Most hams bought for smoking are pre-cooked and smoked, known as "city" hams. Double smoking involves reheating the ham on a pellet grill at low temperatures to enhance the smoky flavor. Recommended temperature settings are no higher than 325°F, and cooking times vary based on ham size—typically 10 to 15 minutes per pound.

Glazing and Resting

While optional, glazing adds an extra layer of flavor and shine. Apply the glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking. After smoking, let the ham rest for at least 30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Making Smoked Ham from Fresh

A fresh ham (uncured and unsmoked) requires curing before smoking. The curing process involves soaking the ham in a brine solution for a period proportional to its weight, usually around one day per pound. After curing, smoke the ham at 225°F to 325°F until the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F.

Serving Suggestions

Smoked ham pairs well with creamy potato gratin, macaroni and cheese, creamed spinach, glazed carrots, and buttery green beans. Leftovers can be used in soups, stews, and sandwiches.

FAQs

1. Smoking Duration: Fresh ham takes 3-5 hours, while double-smoked ham takes slightly less.
2. Best Pellets: Apple, cherry, and hickory pellets offer different flavor profiles.
3. Cuts for Smoking: Popular cuts include ham butt, ham shank, and whole ham.
4. Carving: Slice against the grain and follow the natural contours of the meat.
5. Drippings Usage: Use drippings in gravy, soups, sauces, marinades, and brines.

Sample Recipe: Maple Glazed Traeger Ham

1. Ingredients:
   • 14-16 lb ham
   • Whole cloves
   • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
   • 1/2 cup brown sugar
   • 1/2 cup apple juice
   • 1 tablespoon brown mustard
   • Dash of ground cinnamon and ground ginger
2. Steps:
   • Preheat Traeger to 325°F.
   • Score the ham and insert cloves.
   • Prepare glaze and simmer until sugar dissolves.
   • Smoke ham for 1.5 hours, then apply glaze.
   • Continue cooking until internal temperature reaches 135°F.
   • Rest ham for 20 minutes before serving.

By following these detailed instructions, you can master the art of smoking ham, creating a flavorful and tender centerpiece for any holiday meal.