How To Cook The Perfect Instant Pot Ham: A Step-by-step Guide

Craving a succulent, juicy ham but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen? Look no further than your Instant Pot! This versatile appliance makes cooking a ham a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful, home-cooked meal in a fraction of the time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how to instant pot ham, from selecting the right ham to using the perfect settings.

Choosing the Right Ham

The first step to a successful instant pot ham is choosing the right cut. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Size: Instant Pots come in various sizes, so it’s important to choose a ham that will fit comfortably inside your appliance.
• Type: Spiral-cut hams cook more evenly and faster than whole hams.
• Bone-in or Boneless: Bone-in hams retain more flavor but take longer to cook.
• Glazed or Unglazed: Glazed hams are pre-seasoned and ready to eat, while unglazed hams require additional seasoning before cooking.

Preparing the Ham

Before placing the ham in your Instant Pot, it’s essential to prepare it properly:

• Trim Excess Fat: Remove any excess fat from the ham to prevent splattering during cooking.
• Score the Ham: Use a sharp knife to score the ham’s surface diagonally, which helps the seasoning penetrate.
• Season the Ham: Season the ham generously with your desired spices. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Cooking the Ham

Now comes the fun part – cooking the ham! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Add Liquid: Pour 1 cup of liquid into the Instant Pot, such as water, broth, or apple juice.
• Place the Ham: Place the ham on a trivet or steamer basket to keep it elevated above the liquid.
• Set the Timer: Set the Instant Pot to the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and adjust the time according to the weight of the ham (see the table below).
• Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.

Cooking Time Guide

Glazing the Ham (Optional)

If you’re using an unglazed ham, you can add a glaze to enhance its flavor:

• Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine your desired glaze ingredients, such as honey, brown sugar, mustard, or pineapple juice.
• Brush the Glaze: Once the ham is cooked, brush the glaze evenly over the surface.
• Broil the Glaze: If desired, broil the ham for a few minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Serving the Ham

Your instant pot ham is now ready to serve! Here are a few tips:

• Let it Rest: Allow the ham to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to let the juices redistribute.
• Carve the Ham: Use a sharp knife to carve the ham into thin slices.
• Garnish and Serve: Garnish the ham with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Ham

• Use a Meaty Ham: Choose a ham with a high meat-to-fat ratio for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can make the ham dry and tough. Stick to the recommended cooking times.
• Add Aromatics: Add herbs and spices to the liquid for extra flavor, such as bay leaves, rosemary, or thyme.
• Make Your Own Glaze: Experiment with different glaze flavors to create a unique and delicious ham.
• Don’t Forget the Sides: Serve your instant pot ham with complementary sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

FAQ

• Can I cook a frozen ham in the Instant Pot? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time by 50%.
• What if my ham doesn’t fit in the Instant Pot? You can cut the ham into smaller pieces or use a larger Instant Pot.
• How do I know when the ham is done cooking? Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham. It should read 145°F for fresh ham and 165°F for cured ham.
• Can I reheat ham in the Instant Pot? Yes, place the ham in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of liquid and cook on the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting for 10 minutes.
• How do I store leftover ham? Store leftover ham in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.