Cooking a honey baked ham in an air fryer is an innovative way to enjoy a beloved dish that often graces our tables during festive occasions. The air fryer not only reduces cooking time but also imparts a crisp, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy and delicious. If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve the perfect honey baked ham using this modern appliance, you’re in the right place!
What is Honey Baked Ham?
Honey baked ham has become synonymous with holiday feasts and special occasions. This succulent dish involves a fully-cooked ham glazed with a sweet mixture of honey, brown sugar, and spices. The glaze turns caramelized and crispy during cooking, creating a harmonious balance between savory and sweet flavors.
Why Air Fry a Honey Baked Ham?
Air frying is a method that circulates hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy texture similar to frying, but with significantly less oil. Here are some compelling reasons to prepare honey baked ham in an air fryer:
- Speed: Air fryers cook food faster than traditional ovens, making it perfect for those short on time.
- Crispiness: The air fryer delivers a unique crispiness thanks to its hot air circulation, enhancing the ham’s texture.
- Flavor Enhancement: The caramelization that occurs during air frying amplifies the flavors of the honey glaze.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Honey Baked Ham
Before diving into the preparation, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients. Depending on the size of your air fryer and ham, adjust the quantities as necessary.
| Ingredients | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Fully cooked bone-in ham (fresh or spiral cut) | Approx. 2-4 lbs |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1/4 cup |
| Ground cloves | 1/2 tsp |
| Pineapple juice (optional) | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Steps
Cooking honey baked ham in an air fryer is a straightforward process that can be broken down into several key steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
If you’re using a pre-cooked ham, make sure it’s thawed and ready. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Score the Ham: Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts (about 1/4 inch deep) in a crisscross pattern across the surface of the ham. This helps the glaze seep into the meat, enhancing flavor.
- Trim Excess Fat: If your ham has a thick layer of fat, trim it down to about 1/4 inch. This helps in achieving a better glaze.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a medium bowl, combine the following ingredients to create the sweet glaze:
- Honey
- Brown sugar
- Dijon mustard
- Ground cloves
- Pineapple juice (if using)
Mix them until well combined, then set aside a small amount for basting later.
Step 3: Apply the Glaze
Generously brush the glaze over the scored ham. Ensure that it gets into the cuts you’ve made, as this will intensify the flavor during cooking.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Preheating is crucial to cook the ham evenly and achieve that perfect crispy outside layer.
Step 5: Place the Ham in the Air Fryer
If your ham is spiral cut, place it in the air fryer basket with the cut side facing down. If it’s a whole ham, position it the same way. This orientation secures the juices within the meat and allows the glaze to caramelize beautifully.
Step 6: Air Fry the Ham
Cook the ham for about 10 minutes per pound. For a 2-pound ham, this will take roughly 20 minutes. For a larger ham, adjust the cooking time accordingly. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, baste the ham with the reserved glaze using a brush to enhance the sweetness and color.
Step 7: Check the Temperature
Ensure that the internal temperature of the ham reaches at least 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature by inserting it into the thickest part of the ham.
Step 8: Let it Rest
Once done, remove the ham from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, leading to a more tender and juicy outcome.
Serving Suggestions
Honey baked ham can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your air-fried masterpiece:
1. Side Dishes
Pair your delicious honey baked ham with classic side dishes such as:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes balances the sweetness of the ham perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colors and flavors from seasonal vegetables will complement your ham well.
2. Sandwiches and Wraps
The leftover ham can also be sliced thin to make savory sandwiches or wraps, adding a touch of gourmet to your lunch plans.
3. Accompaniments
Consider serving your honey baked ham with the following accompaniments:
- Dijon Mustard: A tangy glaze that enhances the overall flavor.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tart contrast that balances the sweetness.
Conclusion
Cooking honey baked ham in an air fryer can transform your culinary experience. This method not only saves time but results in a juicy, flavorful, and beautifully caramelized dish that everyone will love. With the right ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can impress your family and friends without the hassle of a traditional oven.
Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this air fryer honey baked ham recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. So dust off that air fryer and prepare to indulge in a dish that’s both comforting and delicious!
What type of ham should I use for air frying?
When cooking honey baked ham in an air fryer, it’s best to use a pre-cooked ham, particularly one that is spiral sliced or pre-glazed. This type of ham can easily absorb flavors and will heat evenly in the air fryer. Look for hams that come with a honey glaze or one that is naturally sweetened. These options tend to complement the air frying method well, resulting in a deliciously caramelized exterior.
It’s important to consider the size of the ham as well. A smaller, pre-sliced ham works best for air frying since the basket space is limited. This ensures that the heat circulates properly, cooking the ham evenly without leaving any part undercooked. If you have a larger ham, you might need to cut it into smaller portions to fit properly in your air fryer.
How do I prepare the ham before cooking?
Before cooking your honey baked ham in the air fryer, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Start by removing any packaging and the plastic disk that may be on the bone. Rinse the ham under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps eliminate excess moisture, which is particularly important for achieving that crispy outer layer in the air fryer.
Next, if your ham does not come pre-glazed, you can create your own honey glaze. Mix honey, brown sugar, and a splash of mustard or apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the surface of the ham, ensuring it’s well-coated in the glaze. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives it a beautiful caramelized finish when cooked in the air fryer.
What cooking time and temperature should I use?
When cooking honey baked ham in an air fryer, a temperature of 250°F (121°C) is generally recommended. This lower temperature allows the ham to heat gently and evenly, which helps to preserve its moisture. Depending on the size of your ham, the cooking time can vary. A general guideline is to heat it for approximately 10-15 minutes per pound.
Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. The USDA recommends that fully cooked ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when heated. Once you approach this temperature, you can turn up the air fryer to a higher temperature for the last few minutes if you want to achieve an extra crispy glaze.
Do I need to cover the ham while cooking?
Covering the ham while cooking in the air fryer can help prevent it from drying out and ensure even heating. However, air fryers work by circulating hot air, which typically means that covering isn’t necessary. Instead, you can loosely tent the ham with foil if you’re concerned about it browning too quickly or if it has a thicker glaze that might burn.
If you choose to cover the ham, make sure not to seal it too tightly. The air fryer needs space to circulate air properly. After a portion of the cooking time, you can remove the foil to allow the glaze to caramelize and achieve that desirable golden-brown finish.
Can I cook other foods alongside the ham?
Yes, it’s possible to cook other foods alongside honey baked ham in an air fryer, but you’ll need to be mindful of cooking times and temperatures. When choosing additional items to cook, opt for foods that have similar cooking times and can handle the lower temperature settings without overcooking. Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans can be great companions to the ham.
To ensure everything cooks evenly, you may need to stagger the addition of your extra ingredients. Add denser vegetables first, allowing the ham to heat up more before introducing quicker-cooking foods. This way, all the components come out perfectly cooked and ready to serve together, enhancing your meal experience.
How do I store leftovers after cooking?
Storing leftovers from your honey baked ham is quite simple. Make sure the ham has cooled down to room temperature before you begin the storage process. Slice the remaining ham into smaller portions to facilitate easier reheating later on. Place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to minimize exposure to air, which could cause drying.
You can store leftover ham in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the ham tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic bags to avoid freezer burn, and it can last for up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the air fryer or another method of your choice.
What are some tips for reheating honey baked ham?
Reheating honey baked ham can be done efficiently in an air fryer, which helps retain moisture while giving you that warm, crispy texture. Preheat your air fryer to around 300°F (149°C). Place the ham slices in the basket in a single layer to ensure even heating. For added flavor, consider brushing the slices with a bit more honey or glaze before reheating.
Heat the ham for about 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to prevent it from drying out. If you’re reheating a whole piece of ham versus slices, you might need to increase the time. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C) before serving. This method will give you deliciously warm ham that tastes almost as good as the first serving.