Key Takeaways
- Selecting the Right Ham: Choose a high-quality bone-in ham weighing between 8 to 12 pounds, preferably labeled “natural” or “hormone-free” for optimal flavor. Spiral-cut hams can simplify serving.
- Essential Ingredients: Enhance the ham’s flavor using 1 to 2 cups of broth or juice for moisture, a homemade glaze of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard, and season with spices like garlic powder and cloves.
- Ninja Foodi Functions: Utilize the Pressure Cook function for quick cooking while retaining moisture, the Air Crisp function for a crispy exterior, and the Slow Cook option for traditional flavor absorption.
- Cooking Process: Prepare the ham by scoring its surface, applying the glaze, and setting it on the cooking rack. Pressure cook for 15 minutes per pound, followed by Air Crisp for 10 to 15 minutes at 400°F for perfect caramelization.
- Perfect Internal Temperature: Ensure the ham reaches a minimum internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption, allowing for natural release or quick release of steam afterward.
- Creative Leftovers Usage: Repurpose leftover ham into dishes like fried rice, quiche, or tacos, maximizing your meal and minimizing waste for a diverse dining experience.
Have you ever wondered how to cook a delicious bone-in ham without spending hours in the kitchen? If you’re looking for a tasty centerpiece for your next gathering, you’re in the right place. The Ninja Foodi can turn that hefty ham into a succulent dish with minimal effort.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Preparing your ingredients sets the foundation for a successful bone-in ham in the Ninja Foodi. Follow these steps to ensure everything’s ready for cooking.
Selecting the Right Bone-In Ham
Choosing a high-quality bone-in ham is crucial. Look for these options:
- Weight: Aim for a ham that weighs between 8 to 12 pounds for optimal cooking time.
- Quality: Select a ham labeled “natural” or “hormone-free” for better flavor and texture.
- Type: Consider spiral-cut hams; they offer ease of serving and flavor absorption.
Additional Ingredients and Seasonings
Gathering supplementary ingredients enhances the ham’s flavor. Use the following items:
- Liquid: Use 1 to 2 cups of broth, apple juice, or pineapple juice for moisture and added taste.
- Glaze: Prepare a glaze using 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of honey, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a sweet finish.
- Spices: Add garlic powder, black pepper, and cloves to elevate the seasoning profile.
By selecting the right ham and ingredients, you create a flavorful and memorable dish.
Setting Up the Ninja Foodi
Setting up the Ninja Foodi ensures smooth cooking for your bone-in ham. Follow these steps to prepare your appliance and optimize your cooking experience.
Understanding the Cooking Functions
Understanding the functions of the Ninja Foodi is crucial for successful ham preparation. The Foodi offers multiple cooking modes, including Pressure Cook, Air Crisp, and Slow Cook.
- Pressure Cook: This function dramatically reduces cooking time while ensuring juicy, tender ham. It seals in moisture and flavor.
- Air Crisp: Use this function to achieve a delicious, crispy exterior after cooking. Perfect for that golden glaze.
- Slow Cook: Option for a more traditional approach, allowing the ham to cook slowly and absorb flavors.
Using a combination of these functions enhances your ham’s taste and texture.
Preparing the Outer Pot and Cooking Rack
Preparing the outer pot and cooking rack is essential for effective cooking. Follow these steps:
- Clean the Outer Pot: Ensure it’s free from debris. A clean pot helps in even cooking.
- Add Liquid: Pour 1 to 2 cups of broth, apple juice, or pineapple juice into the pot. This liquid keeps the ham moist during cooking.
- Position the Cooking Rack: Place the cooking rack inside the pot. This elevates the ham, promoting even heating and preventing it from sitting in the liquid, which can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
- Secure the Lid: Close the Ninja Foodi lid properly. Make sure it’s sealed if you’re using the Pressure Cook function.
Following these steps sets a solid foundation for perfectly cooked bone-in ham, ensuring it turns out flavorful and tender.
Cooking Steps for Bone-In Ham
Cooking a bone-in ham in the Ninja Foodi is straightforward. Follow these steps to achieve a delicious result.
Prepping the Ham
- Choose a high-quality bone-in ham weighing between 8 to 12 pounds.
- Rinse the ham under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels.
- Score the surface in a diamond pattern to enhance flavor absorption.
- Mix your glaze ingredients—brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard—in a bowl.
- Rub the glaze all over the ham, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the ham on the cooking rack inside the Ninja Foodi, cut side down.
Cooking Time and Temperature Settings
- Pour 1 to 2 cups of broth, apple juice, or pineapple juice into the pot for moisture.
- Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Select the Pressure Cook function. Set the time to 15 minutes per pound. For example, an 10-pound ham requires 150 minutes of cooking.
- After cooking, switch to the Air Crisp function and set the temperature to 400°F. Crisp the ham for 10 to 15 minutes for a nice exterior.
- For Natural Release, allow the pressure to decrease naturally for about 15 to 20 minutes. This method keeps the juices inside the ham and aids in tenderness.
- For Quick Release, carefully turn the valve to venting immediately after cooking. This method reduces wait time but may cause some juices to escape.
- After releasing pressure, open the lid and check the ham’s internal temperature. It should reach a minimum of 145°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serving a bone-in ham opens up numerous delicious pairing options and creative ways to utilize leftovers. Here are some suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Side Dishes Pairing with Ham
Complement your bone-in ham with vibrant side dishes. Consider these options:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes add color and nutrition.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting classic accompaniment.
- Green Bean Casserole: This rich dish balances the flavors with its creamy texture and crispy toppings.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy, creamy side that appeals to both adults and kids.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch provides a nice contrast to the ham’s savory flavor.
These dishes create a balanced plate, enhancing the overall dining experience and ensuring everyone enjoys the feast.
Leftover Ham Recipes
Utilizing leftover ham adds value and reduces waste. Here are some creative ways to repurpose it:
- Ham Fried Rice: Combine chopped ham with rice, peas, and carrots for a quick stir-fry.
- Ham and Cheese Quiche: Whisk eggs, add diced ham, cheese, onion, and bake for a hearty breakfast.
- Ham Sandwiches: Layer slices between your favorite bread with mustard and cheese for a satisfying lunch.
- Split Pea Soup: Use leftover ham bone to add depth to a comforting soup.
- Ham Tacos: Shred ham and serve in tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado and salsa.
These recipes transform your leftovers into new meals, making the most out of your delicious ham.
Conclusion
Cooking a bone-in ham in your Ninja Foodi can be a game changer for your gatherings. You’ll impress your guests with a juicy and flavorful centerpiece that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
With just a few simple steps and the right ingredients, you can achieve a delicious result every time. Don’t forget to explore creative ways to use any leftovers; they can lead to some tasty meals throughout the week.
So go ahead and give it a try. Your friends and family will love it and you’ll enjoy the ease of cooking with your Ninja Foodi. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cook a bone-in ham in the Ninja Foodi?
To cook a bone-in ham in the Ninja Foodi, prepare the ham by rinsing, drying, and scoring the surface. Apply a glaze made from brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Use the Pressure Cook function on high for 15 minutes per pound, then switch to Air Crisp for 10-15 minutes at 400°F to achieve a crispy exterior.
What size ham is suitable for the Ninja Foodi?
A bone-in ham weighing between 8 to 12 pounds is ideal for cooking in the Ninja Foodi. Choose a ham labeled “natural” or “hormone-free” for the best flavor and quality.
What ingredients do I need for the glaze?
For the glaze, you will need brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard. You can also add spices like garlic powder, black pepper, and cloves to enhance the flavor.
How do I prepare the Ninja Foodi for cooking ham?
Clean the outer pot, add moisture (broth, apple or pineapple juice), and position the cooking rack for even heating. Make sure to securely close the lid before starting the pressure cooking.
How do I check if the ham is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the ham reaches at least 145°F. This ensures that it is safe to eat and properly cooked.
What are some good side dishes to serve with ham?
Consider serving roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, macaroni and cheese, or coleslaw as vibrant side dishes to complement your bone-in ham.
How can I use leftover ham?
Leftover ham can be used in a variety of dishes like ham fried rice, ham and cheese quiche, sandwiches, split pea soup, or ham tacos, offering delicious options while minimizing waste.
