Why I Avoid Spiral-Cut Ham: Discover the Best Alternatives for Delicious Holiday Feasts

When it comes to ham, many people think of the convenience of presliced options. However, if you’ve ever tasted a whole, unsliced ham, you may understand why some cooks prefer it. Whole hams stay juicier because they don’t have all those cuts allowing moisture to escape. Presliced hams often dry out, making them less appealing.

In my experience as a recipe developer, I’ve cooked countless spiral-cut hams. While they may be convenient, they just don’t compare to the juicy goodness of a whole ham. I first discovered this contrast about thirty years ago when I tried my then-boyfriend’s family’s traditional ham. It became a staple at our gatherings, especially since my family opted for ham instead of turkey during holidays.

Cooking a whole ham means more flavorful, moist slices. When you slice after cooking, you preserve those delicious juices. I remember baking a whole ham one Thanksgiving; my brother noticed the juices dripped down beautifully as he carved. The messier slices added to the charm and made every bite a delight.

Looking for a whole ham? Not all grocery stores carry them. But you can find them at butcher shops and even Walmart. Often, the shank half is better because it’s fattier and simpler to carve. If you’re serving a crowd, a whole ham is definitely the way to go.

Ready to bake? Here’s my simple method: Place sliced oranges in a roasting pan, then lay the ham on top. Pour some ginger beer over it, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until it reaches 140°F internally. The cooking time averages about 12 minutes per pound, so a large ham will take a few hours. Once it’s done, let it rest before slicing. That’s when the magic happens—the juices mix with the ginger and orange for a delicious finish.

In recent years, many social media platforms have seen a rise in homemade cooking, especially for holidays. With a 2022 survey revealing that 80% of families now prefer celebrating with home-cooked meals rather than takeout, it’s clear that cooking techniques like this are getting popular. As people share their experiences online, the appeal of a juicy ham cooked at home stands out more than ever.

So if you’re in the mood for a flavorful, juicy ham, consider skipping the spiral cuts and opting for a whole one. It’s a choice that pays off in taste and satisfaction.

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