Oven Baked Pulled Ham Recipe

Cook Time: 420 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 (6 to 8 pound) bone-in ham (not spiral sliced)
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar barbecue rub
• 6 fluid ounces cola-flavored carbonated beverage
• 1 cup sweet and spicy barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup apricot preserves

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 275F (135C).
2. In a small bowl, stir together the whole grain mustard and liquid smoke. Rub this mustard mixture evenly over the ham. Sprinkle the barbecue rub all over the ham, ensuring its well-coated.
3. Place the ham in a large disposable pan or a large deep pan lined with foil. Pour the cola into the pan and cover it tightly with foil.
4. Bake the ham in the preheated oven for 2 hours.
5. After 2 hours, remove the pan from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 300F (150C).
6. In a separate bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce and apricot preserves. Pour this mixture evenly over the ham, spreading it out to cover the surface.
7. Cover the pan with foil again and return the ham to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 to 6 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the ham reads 205F (96C).
8. Once done, let the ham rest for 10 to 15 minutes to cool slightly and become easier to handle.
9. Shred the ham with two forks, mixing the meat with the pan drippings for added flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	399
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	145mg
Sodium	2493mg
Total Carbohydrate	23g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	18g
Protein	51g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	22mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	853mg

Servings per Recipe: 12

Note: Nutritional information is based on available data. If you follow a medically restricted diet, please consult a doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Oven Baked Pulled Ham is a savory and tender dish, slowly cooked to perfection, offering a delightful combination of sweet and smoky flavors. The slow-baking process allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, making it incredibly juicy and easy to shred. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it yields a large portion and provides a delicious filling for sandwiches.

History of Oven Baked Pulled Ham

The origin of pulled ham can be traced back to the traditional Southern United States, where pork has been a staple for centuries. The method of slow-cooking ham in the oven, specifically using low temperatures and cooking it for hours, is an evolution of older smoking and braising techniques. The dish was likely influenced by regional barbecue traditions, which are famous for their long, slow cooking processes to achieve tenderness and rich flavor. Over time, creative variations, such as adding cola and apricot preserves for extra sweetness and complexity, have become popular.

Regional Variations

In the American South, pulled pork is a beloved dish, but pulled ham offers a slightly leaner alternative. Each region of the South has its own take on this dish. For example, in Texas, barbecue rubs are often spicier, while in North Carolina, a vinegar-based sauce might be used. The Oven Baked Pulled Ham recipe can be easily adapted by swapping ingredients, such as using different fruit preserves or experimenting with various types of barbecue sauces. However, the method remains largely the sameslow and steady for perfect tenderness.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

When compared to similar dishes like pulled pork, Oven Baked Pulled Ham offers a unique twist. Pulled pork is made from the shoulder of a pig and is often smoked or slow-cooked in a crockpot, resulting in a slightly fattier and richer flavor. Pulled ham, on the other hand, uses the ham leg, which is leaner and often offers a firmer texture. Additionally, the inclusion of cola and apricot preserves in the Oven Baked Pulled Ham adds a distinct sweet and tangy profile, which sets it apart from traditional pulled pork or even other forms of roasted ham.

Where It Is Usually Served

Oven Baked Pulled Ham is a versatile dish that can be served at a variety of occasions. It is commonly featured in casual gatherings, family dinners, and festive events like Christmas and Easter. The shredded ham is often used as a filling for sandwiches or sliders, paired with a side of coleslaw or potato salad. It also pairs well with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes, making it an ideal option for a complete meal.

Fun Facts About Oven Baked Pulled Ham

• Many people use cola or soda in cooking to tenderize meat and enhance flavor. The carbonation helps break down the meat's fibers, making it extra soft.
• The tradition of "low and slow" cooking for meats like pulled ham and pork originated in the Southern United States, where meats were slow-cooked over wood or coal fires for hours.
• Ham is considered one of the oldest meats consumed by humans. Ancient civilizations, including the Romans, were known for curing and preserving ham to make it last longer.
• Using apricot preserves in the recipe adds a touch of fruity sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory barbecue sauce, creating a delicious balance of flavors.

In conclusion, Oven Baked Pulled Ham is not just a meal; its a celebration of flavors, history, and culture. Whether you're a fan of slow-cooked meats or just looking for a tasty dish to feed a crowd, this recipe will impress every time.

FAQ about Oven Baked Pulled Ham Recipe

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