Instant Pot Bone-In Ham: A Delicious Centerpiece for Any Occasion

Imagine a succulent, tender ham that practically melts in your mouth, oozing with a sweet and tangy flavor that leaves everyone craving more. That’s exactly what you get with this Instant Pot Bone-In Ham recipe! This dish combines the rich, savory taste of ham with a delightful glaze of brown sugar, pineapple juice, and ground cloves, resulting in an irresistible main course. Not only is this recipe incredibly simple and quick, but it also yields jaw-droppingly delicious results, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a weekday treat. In this post, I’ll guide you through the entire cooking process and share tips to help you master it.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Bone-In Ham

This Instant Pot Bone-In Ham isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that brings families together. Here are a few reasons you’ll adore this dish:

Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot cuts down cooking time significantly compared to traditional methods.
Perfect for Beginners: Simple steps and minimal ingredients make this recipe approachable for all cooking levels.
Ideal for the Whole Family: The sweet and savory flavor profile appeals to both adults and kids alike.
Economical: Bone-in ham is often more affordable, and this recipe turns it into something special.

The Necessary Ingredients

Before you get started, you’ll need to gather these key ingredients:

1 bone-in ham
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup pineapple juice
1 teaspoon ground cloves

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Bone-in Ham: This specific cut is important for flavor and moisture. If you can’t find a bone-in ham, a boneless ham will work, but the texture might differ slightly.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds sweetness and a caramel-like flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar).
Pineapple Juice: Provides a lovely tanginess. If desired, you could use apple juice or another fruit juice as a replacement, but this will change the flavor profile.

How to Prepare the Instant Pot Bone-In Ham Step by Step

Follow these clear steps to create your delicious ham:

Place the ham in the Instant Pot
Start by placing your bone-in ham inside the Instant Pot. Make sure it’s positioned fully within the pot for even cooking.
Pro Tip: If your ham is too big, you can slice it in half to fit.
Mix together brown sugar, pineapple juice, and ground cloves
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, and ground cloves. Mix until you achieve a smooth, thick glaze.
Pro Tip: Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or juice according to your preference.
Pour the mixture over the ham
Drizzle the glaze over the ham. Ensure it’s well-coated, as this will form a delightful crust while cooking.
Pro Tip: Use a brush to spread the mixture evenly if preferred.
Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure
Seal the lid securely and set the appliance to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes per pound of ham.
Pro Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.
Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes
Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes. This allows the meat to rest and retain moisture.
Pro Tip: After 15 minutes, do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Remove the ham, let it rest before slicing, and serve
Carefully take the ham out of the Instant Pot and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time helps redistribute the juices.
Pro Tip: Serve the ham with some of the leftover glaze drizzled on top for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some delicious ideas on how to serve your Perfect Instant Pot Bone-In Ham:

Perfect Pairings

Drinks: Serve with a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Side Dishes: Great side choices include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a citrus salad to balance the flavor.

Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: Perfect for a cozy family meal that feels fancy with minimal effort!
Special Occasion Meal: Ideal for holidays like Christmas or Easter, where it can be the star of the show.

Serving Tips

Consider garnishing your ham with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an elegant touch.
Serve slices on a decorative platter alongside fresh fruit for an appealing presentation.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To enjoy your delicious ham another day, here’s how to store and reheat it safely:

Refrigerated

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezed

If you want to store longer, freeze the ham, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat ham is in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. Put a bit of glaze over the top before covering it with foil to maintain moisture.

Guaranteed Success Tips

Follow these golden rules to ensure your ham comes out perfect every time:

Keep the lid closed during cooking: This maintains pressure and heat, ensuring even cooking.
Allow for natural pressure release: It’s key for tender, juicy meat.
Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are some variations on this classic recipe:

For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of Espelette pepper or red pepper flakes for a nice kick.
For a Citrus Twist: Mix in the zest and juice of an orange for a citrusy glaze.
For a Savory Herb Blend: Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: "Is it necessary to glaze the ham?"

A: While glazing enhances the flavor and appearance, it’s not mandatory. You can roast it simply seasoned with salt and pepper if you prefer.

Q: "My ham came out dry, what did I do wrong?"

A: Overcooking can lead to dryness. Always check the cooking time according to the weight of the ham and rely on a meat thermometer for best results.

Q: "Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?"

A: Yes, you can use honey or agave syrup, but they will change the flavor and texture slightly.

Q: "How can I tell when the ham is done?"

A: Use a meat thermometer; it should read 145°F (63°C) internally.

Q: "Can I cook a frozen ham in the Instant Pot?"

A: Yes, but it will take longer to reach the right temperature. Plan on 50% more cooking time.

Q: "Why is my glaze not thickening?"

A: If the ham releases too much moisture, the glaze may not thicken properly. You can boil it down on the stovetop after cooking for a thicker consistency.

Q: "What should I do with leftover ham?"

A: Leftover ham can be used in salads, sandwiches, or casseroles. It’s versatile and can elevate many dishes!

With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to create a mouthwatering Instant Pot Bone-In Ham that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of cooking this delightful dish, and happy eating!