Spiral sliced ham smoked over hickory wood, glazed with a sweet and spicy blend of fresh jalapeno peppers, apple juice and brown sugar.

 

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Spiral sliced ham

A spiral sliced ham is a ham that has been pre-sliced into thin, circular slices that are connected at the base. This allows the ham to be easily carved and served. Spiral sliced hams are typically fully cooked and can be reheated in the oven or for some extra flavor the smoker.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar has a rich, molasses-like flavor with hints of caramel and toffee. It is slightly less sweet than white sugar and has a slight gritty texture due to the presence of molasses. The flavor of brown sugar can vary depending on the type of molasses used, with light brown sugar having a milder flavor than dark brown sugar.

Apple

Apples have a sweet and slightly tart flavor. The taste can vary depending on the variety of apple, but in general, apples are crisp and juicy with a refreshing sweetness. Some apples, like Granny Smith apples, have a more tart flavor, while others, like Honey crisp apples, are sweeter. Apples also have a floral aroma and a slightly grainy texture.

Jalapeno

Jalapenos have a spicy, slightly sweet, and earthy flavor. The level of spiciness can vary depending on the variety of jalapeno and how it is prepared. Raw jalapenos are typically hotter than cooked jalapenos. The seeds and ribs of the jalapeno are also hotter than the flesh.

Walnut

Walnuts have a rich, buttery flavor with a slightly sweet and nutty taste. They have a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter aftertaste. The flavor of walnuts can vary depending on the variety of walnut and how they are processed. For example, English walnuts have a milder flavor than black walnuts, and roasted walnuts have a more intense flavor than raw walnuts.

Butter

Butter has a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor. It is made from the fat of milk and has a smooth, velvety texture. The flavor of butter can vary depending on the type of milk used and the production process. For example, butter made from grass-fed cows tends to have a more pronounced flavor than butter made from grain-fed cows. Additionally, the flavor of butter can change over time, becoming more intense as it ages.

Apple Juice

Apple juice has a sweet and slightly tart flavor. It is crisp, refreshing, and has a light, fruity aroma. The taste of apple juice can vary depending on the variety of apples used, in the smoker it adds a little moisture, prevents the sugar from sticking and adds a lingering sweetness.

TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE BEST HICKORY JALAPENO BROWN SUGAR HAM

Alternatives to honey

• Maple syrup: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener made from the sap of maple trees. It has a slightly caramel-like flavor, making it a great substitute for honey in many recipes.
• Agave nectar: Agave nectar is a natural sweetener made from the sap of the agave plant. It has a neutral flavor, making it a versatile substitute for honey.
• Brown rice syrup: Brown rice syrup is a natural sweetener made from cooked brown rice. It has a slightly molasses-like flavor, making it a good substitute for honey in baked goods.
• Coconut nectar: Coconut nectar is a natural sweetener made from the sap of coconut flowers. It has a slightly caramel-like flavor, making it a good substitute for honey in drinks and desserts.
• Stevia: Stevia is a natural sweetener made from the leaves of the stevia plant. It has a very sweet taste, so a little goes a long way. Its also an acquired taste. 
• Monk fruit sweetener: Monk fruit sweetener is a natural sweetener made from the extract of monk fruit. It has a very sweet taste, so a little goes a long way.

How to Select a Spiral Sliced Ham

1. Choose the right size ham. Spiral sliced hams are available in a variety of sizes, so you’ll need to choose one that is the right size for your needs. A good rule of thumb is to allow about 1/2 pound of ham per person.
2. Look for a ham that is evenly sliced. The slices should be about 1/4 inch thick and evenly spaced.
3. Choose a ham that is well-marbled. Marbling is the fat that runs through the meat. It helps to keep the ham moist and flavorful.
4. Check the ham for freshness. The ham should be a deep pink color and have a firm texture. Avoid any hams that are slimy or have an off odor.
5. Buy a ham that is fully cooked. Spiral sliced hams are typically sold fully cooked, but it’s always a good idea to check the package to make sure.
6. Choose a ham that is spiral sliced. This will make it easier to carve and serve.

DO YOU NEED TO BUTCHER YOUR OWN HAM

No, you do not need to butcher your own ham for this recipe. You can purchase a pre-cooked, spiral-sliced ham from the store.

What is cold smoking vs  regular smoking

Cold smoking is a method of smoking food at a low temperature, typically between 68°F and 86°F, for an extended period of time, usually several hours or even days. This process imparts a smoky flavor to the food without cooking it. Cold smoking is often used for meats, fish, and cheese.

Cooking the ham, on the other hand, involves heating it to a higher temperature, usually between 275°F and 325°F, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This process cooks the ham through and makes it safe to eat.

The main difference between cold smoking and cooking the ham is the temperature at which the food is heated. Cold smoking is done at a low temperature, while cooking is done at a high temperature. This difference in temperature results in different outcomes. Cold smoking imparts a smoky flavor to the food without cooking it, while cooking cooks the food through and makes it safe to eat.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

Chef Knife

Whisk

Cutting Board

Aluminum Foil Tray

Smoker

Wood of choice (Hickory, mesquite, oak, apple, etc)

SIMILAR INGREDIENTS TO

Buttermilk Biscuits + Ham & Sausage Red Eye Gravy

Ham, White Bean & Chard Soup

Chef’s Salad + Golden Ranch

ENJOY THIS RECIPE WITH

Roasted Kumato & Garlic Frittata

Spinach Salad, Lemon Croutons & Peppery Blended Arugula Vinegarette

Red Onion & Sage Corn Muffins

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