Cooking a large spiral ham on a gas grill can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to grilling or have never cooked a ham of this size before. However, with the right techniques and a little patience, you can achieve a deliciously glazed and perfectly cooked spiral ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook a 10-pound spiral ham on a gas grill, including preparation, grilling, and glazing.
Preparation is Key
Before you start grilling, it’s essential to prepare your spiral ham properly. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Choosing the Right Ham
When selecting a spiral ham, look for one that’s labeled “bone-in” or “shank-end.” These hams have a more even fat distribution, which makes them easier to cook and more tender. Avoid hams that are labeled “boneless” or “lean,” as they may dry out during cooking.
Thawing the Ham
If your spiral ham is frozen, you’ll need to thaw it before grilling. The best way to thaw a ham is in the refrigerator, allowing about 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of ham. You can also thaw the ham in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. However, this method is not recommended, as it can lead to bacterial growth.
Removing the Glaze Packet
Most spiral hams come with a glaze packet that’s designed to be applied during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. However, we recommend removing the packet and creating your own glaze from scratch. This will allow you to customize the flavor and texture of the glaze to your liking.
Setting Up Your Gas Grill
Before you start grilling, make sure your gas grill is set up correctly. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Preheating the Grill
Preheat your gas grill to 325°F (160°C), using the low heat setting. This will help prevent the ham from burning or cooking too quickly.
Setting Up the Grill Grates
Make sure the grill grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent sticking. You can also line the grates with foil or a grill mat to make cleanup easier.
Using a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is essential for cooking a spiral ham, as it allows you to monitor the internal temperature of the meat. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any fat or bone.
Grilling the Ham
Now that your grill is set up, it’s time to start grilling the ham. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Placing the Ham on the Grill
Place the spiral ham on the grill, cut side down. Close the lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the ham is nicely browned.
Flipping the Ham
Flip the ham over and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the other side is nicely browned.
Wrapping the Ham in Foil
After 30-40 minutes of grilling, wrap the ham in foil to prevent overcooking. This will also help retain moisture and promote even cooking.
Continuing to Grill
Continue grilling the ham for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with pan juices every 10-15 minutes to keep it moist.
Glazing the Ham
The final step in cooking a spiral ham is glazing. Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious glaze:
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Applying the Glaze
Remove the ham from the grill and brush the glaze all over the surface of the meat. Return the ham to the grill and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking a spiral ham on a gas grill:
Using a Ham Rest
A ham rest is a device that allows you to cook a spiral ham vertically, promoting even cooking and reducing the risk of burning. If you have a ham rest, use it to cook your spiral ham.
Adding Aromatics
Adding aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the grill can add flavor to the ham and create a delicious pan sauce. Simply place the aromatics on the grill with the ham and cook until they’re tender.
Using Different Glazes
There are many different glazes you can use on a spiral ham, from a simple brown sugar and mustard glaze to a more complex glaze made with ingredients like pineapple juice and soy sauce. Experiment with different glazes to find the one you like best.
Conclusion
Cooking a 10-pound spiral ham on a gas grill can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and a little patience, you can achieve a deliciously glazed and perfectly cooked ham. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create a mouth-watering spiral ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy grilling!
| Internal Temperature | Doneness |
|---|---|
| 140°F (60°C) | Medium-rare |
| 150°F (65°C) | Medium |
| 150°F (65°C) | Medium-well |
| 155°F (68°C) | Well-done |
Note: The internal temperature of the ham will continue to rise after it’s removed from the grill, so it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
What are the benefits of cooking a spiral ham on a gas grill?
Cooking a spiral ham on a gas grill offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows for a crispy, caramelized exterior, which is often difficult to achieve in the oven. The high heat of the grill helps to create a sticky, sweet glaze on the surface of the ham, adding texture and flavor. Additionally, grilling a spiral ham can help to enhance the overall presentation of the dish, making it perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Another benefit of grilling a spiral ham is the ability to add smoky flavor. By using wood chips or chunks, you can infuse the ham with a rich, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the glaze. This is especially useful if you’re looking to add a unique twist to your traditional ham recipe. Overall, cooking a spiral ham on a gas grill is a great way to add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to this classic dish.
How do I prepare a 10-pound spiral ham for grilling?
Before grilling a 10-pound spiral ham, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Start by removing the ham from the packaging and placing it in a large container or tray. Score the fat layer on the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. This will help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a crispy exterior. Next, trim any excess fat or skin from the surface of the ham, if necessary.
Once the ham is scored and trimmed, you can apply a glaze or rub. A mixture of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices is a classic glaze for spiral ham. Apply the glaze evenly over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines. If using a rub, apply it liberally, making sure to coat the entire surface of the ham. Let the ham sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to allow the glaze or rub to set.
What is the best way to set up my gas grill for cooking a spiral ham?
To set up your gas grill for cooking a spiral ham, start by preheating the grill to medium-low heat (about 275-300°F). While the grill is heating up, prepare the grates by brushing them with oil to prevent sticking. You’ll also want to set up a drip pan or foil pan under the grates to catch any juices or glaze that may drip off the ham during cooking.
Once the grill is preheated, you can set up the heat zones. For a spiral ham, you’ll want to use indirect heat, so turn off the burners directly under the ham. This will help prevent the surface of the ham from burning or charring too quickly. You can also use wood chips or chunks to add smoky flavor to the ham. Simply place the wood chips in a smoker box or directly on the grates, and close the lid to allow the smoke to infuse the ham.
How long does it take to cook a 10-pound spiral ham on a gas grill?
The cooking time for a 10-pound spiral ham on a gas grill will depend on several factors, including the heat of the grill, the thickness of the ham, and the level of doneness desired. As a general rule, you can expect to cook a spiral ham for about 15-20 minutes per pound. So, for a 10-pound ham, you’re looking at a cooking time of around 2-1/2 to 3 hours.
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140°F. You can insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any fat or bone. Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
How do I prevent the spiral ham from drying out on the gas grill?
One of the biggest challenges when cooking a spiral ham on a gas grill is preventing it from drying out. To combat this, it’s essential to keep the ham moist and add flavor throughout the cooking process. You can do this by basting the ham with pan juices or a glaze every 20-30 minutes. This will help keep the surface of the ham moist and add flavor.
Another way to prevent the ham from drying out is to use a water pan. Place a pan of water or apple juice on the grill grates, and close the lid to create a steamy environment. This will help keep the ham moist and add flavor. You can also cover the ham with foil during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from drying out and promote even cooking.
Can I add wood smoke flavor to my spiral ham on a gas grill?
Yes, you can add wood smoke flavor to your spiral ham on a gas grill. One way to do this is by using wood chips or chunks. Simply place the wood chips in a smoker box or directly on the grates, and close the lid to allow the smoke to infuse the ham. You can use a variety of wood types, such as hickory, apple, or cherry, to add different flavor profiles to the ham.
Another way to add wood smoke flavor is by using a pellet smoker or a gas grill with a smoke generator. These devices allow you to add wood pellets or chips to the grill, which are then ignited to produce smoke. This is a great way to add a rich, smoky flavor to the ham without the need for a charcoal grill.
How do I glaze a spiral ham on a gas grill?
Glazing a spiral ham on a gas grill is a great way to add flavor and texture to the dish. To glaze the ham, start by preparing a glaze made from ingredients like brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices. Brush the glaze evenly over the surface of the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also use a mop or a spray bottle to apply the glaze.
For a caramelized glaze, you can increase the heat of the grill to medium-high (about 375-400°F) during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This will help the glaze set and create a crispy, caramelized exterior. Keep an eye on the ham during this time, as the glaze can burn quickly. Once the glaze is set, remove the ham from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.