Uncured ham is a flavorful, natural alternative to traditional cured ham. Unlike cured versions, it’s not preserved with nitrates or nitrites, which gives it a fresher, more natural pork taste. If you’re wondering how to cook uncured ham so it turns out juicy, tender, and delicious, this guide walks you through step-by-step instructions, cooking times, and the best tools to use.
What Is Uncured Ham?
Uncured ham is still technically cured—but it’s preserved with natural ingredients like celery powder and sea salt instead of synthetic nitrates. It tends to taste less salty and more pork-forward, making it a healthier and sometimes preferred choice for families.
Cooking Methods for Uncured Ham
- Baking (Oven Roasting): The most common method for whole uncured hams.
- Slow Cooking: Produces fall-apart tender ham, great for shredded recipes.
- Smoking: Adds deep, smoky flavor to balance the mild pork taste.
- Grilling: Works well for ham steaks or small cuts of uncured ham.
Step-by-Step: How to Bake Uncured Ham
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Place ham flat-side down in a roasting pan with a rack.
- Add ½–1 cup water or broth to the bottom of the pan to prevent drying.
- Cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes per pound until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- During the last 15 minutes, remove foil and apply glaze (honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup).
- Rest 10 minutes before carving.
How to Smoke Uncured Ham
- Preheat smoker to 225°F.
- Smoke ham for 3–5 hours depending on size.
- Use fruit woods like apple or cherry for mild sweetness.
- Cook until internal temperature hits 145°F.
Tips for Juicy Uncured Ham
- Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Keep ham covered for most of the cooking time to lock in moisture.
- Rest the ham before carving to redistribute juices.
- For extra flavor, baste with juices every 30–45 minutes.
How to Store and Use Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Leftover Recipes: Ham and cheese quiche, ham & bean soup, ham fried rice, ham sliders.
Quick Picks: Best Tools for Cooking Uncured Ham
- Best Overall: ThermoPro TP19 Digital Meat Thermometer – Accurate and fast readings.
- Best Budget: Nordic Ware Roasting Pan – Affordable and durable.
- Best Premium: All-Clad Stainless Steel Roaster with Rack – Professional quality roasting pan.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Tools for Uncured Ham
- Roasting Pans: Sturdy pans with racks allow even cooking and prevent soggy bottoms.
- Meat Thermometers: Crucial for food safety and perfect doneness.
- Carving Knives: Long, sharp blades make neat slices.
- Smokers: Add rich smoky depth to uncured ham.
- Storage Containers: Keep leftovers fresh and freezer-safe.
Detailed Reviews: Best Ham-Cooking Tools
ThermoPro TP19 Digital Meat Thermometer
Who it’s for: Anyone cooking uncured ham or large roasts.
- Key Benefits: Instant read, waterproof, backlit display.
- Pros: Affordable, accurate, easy to use.
- Cons: Limited to temperature checking.
Final Verdict: The most essential tool for cooking ham. See price.
Nordic Ware Natural Roasting Pan
Who it’s for: Everyday cooks making ham or poultry.
- Key Benefits: Aluminum build, even heating, affordable.
- Pros: Lightweight, durable, budget-friendly.
- Cons: Not as heavy-duty as premium pans.
Final Verdict: Best budget roasting pan for ham. Order here.
All-Clad Stainless Steel Roaster with Rack
Who it’s for: Serious cooks who want pro-grade cookware.
- Key Benefits: Tri-ply construction, V-shaped rack, oven-safe.
- Pros: Durable, elegant, superior cooking performance.
- Cons: Premium price, heavy.
Final Verdict: The best premium roasting pan. See details.
Wüsthof Classic Carving Knife
Who it’s for: Cooks who want clean, professional slices.
- Key Benefits: High-carbon stainless steel blade, ergonomic handle.
- Pros: Extremely sharp, long-lasting, balanced.
- Cons: Pricier than standard knives.
Final Verdict: Best carving knife for ham. Shop now.
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker Smoker
Who it’s for: BBQ lovers who want smoky ham flavor.
- Key Benefits: Charcoal smoker, built-in thermometer, large capacity.
- Pros: Easy to use, consistent results, durable.
- Cons: Requires outdoor space and charcoal.
Final Verdict: Best smoker for uncured ham. View price.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Material | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| ThermoPro TP19 Thermometer | Checking ham doneness | Digital + steel probe | View Price |
| Nordic Ware Roasting Pan | Budget-friendly roasting | Aluminum | View Price |
| All-Clad Roaster | Premium ham roasting | Tri-ply stainless steel | View Price |
| Wüsthof Carving Knife | Professional carving | High-carbon steel | View Price |
| Weber Smoker | Smoking uncured ham | Steel | View Price |
FAQ: Cooking Uncured Ham
Do you have to cook uncured ham?
Yes. Unlike cured ham, uncured ham is usually sold fresh and must be fully cooked before eating.
What internal temperature should uncured ham reach?
It should reach 145°F, followed by a 3-minute rest for safety.
Does uncured ham taste different from cured ham?
Yes, it’s less salty and has a fresher, pork-forward flavor.
Can you glaze uncured ham?
Absolutely. Honey, brown sugar, maple syrup, or mustard glazes enhance flavor beautifully.
Conclusion
Cooking uncured ham is simple and rewarding. Bake it at 325°F for 15–20 minutes per pound, smoke it low and slow, or try the slow cooker for tender results. Always check doneness with a meat thermometer, and finish with a glaze for extra flavor.
For the best results, use a ThermoPro Meat Thermometer, roast in an All-Clad Stainless Steel Roaster, and carve with a Wüsthof Knife.