Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a culinary adventure straight from the Caribbean! Our Caribbean Jerk Style Roast Fresh Ham is not just a meal; it's a vibrant celebration of flavors that will transport you to sun-soaked beaches and lively island festivals. Imagine succulent, juicy ham infused with the bold spices of jerk seasoning, perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and savory undertones. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply craving something extraordinary for dinner, this recipe promises to impress and delight your guests. Dive into the mouthwatering details below and discover how to create this unforgettable dish!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (4-6 lb) fresh ham
- 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the fresh ham from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C), positioning the rack in the lower third of the oven.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a robust marinade.
- Pat the ham dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade adheres properly.
- Generously rub the entire surface of the ham with the prepared jerk marinade, making sure to cover all areas, including any crevices.
- Place the marinated ham in a large roasting pan, fat side up, and cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Roast the ham in the preheated oven, allowing approximately 20-25 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the exterior to develop a crispy, caramelized crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the ham has reached the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes, which allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist, tender result.
- Carve the ham into thick slices and serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Always remove the fresh ham from the refrigerator an hour before cooking. This step ensures even cooking throughout the meat, resulting in a perfectly tender roast.
- Perfect Marinade: For an extra kick, let the marinated ham sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, enhancing the overall taste.
- Monitor the Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on the size of the ham. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Crispy Crust: To achieve that irresistible crispy, caramelized crust, remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of roasting. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Resting Period: After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 364kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 38g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
