how to make pulled ham

3 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to make incredibly tender and flavorful pulled ham! This guide provides a simple, step-by-step process for transforming a bone-in ham into a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a standalone dish. Discover tips and tricks for achieving the perfect texture and flavor, including selecting the right ham and using various cooking methods. Get ready to elevate your ham game!

Selecting Your Ham

The key to amazing pulled ham starts with choosing the right ham. Look for a bone-in ham, either a city ham (fully cooked) or a country ham (requires additional cooking). City hams are generally easier to work with for pulled ham. Avoid pre-sliced hams as they won't hold together as well during the pulling process.

City Ham: Already fully cooked, requiring less cooking time. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Country Ham: Requires longer cooking, resulting in a deeper, more intense flavor. Plan accordingly!

Methods for Cooking Your Ham

There are several ways to cook your ham to achieve perfectly pulled results.

Method 1: Slow Cooker Pulled Ham

This method yields incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth ham.

Prep the Ham: Score the ham's fat cap in a crosshatch pattern. This helps render the fat and allows for better flavor penetration.
Slow Cook: Place the ham in your slow cooker. Add about 1 cup of liquid (apple juice, chicken broth, or water) to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ham is easily shredded with a fork. Check internal temperature; it should reach at least 140°F (60°C).
Shred and Serve: Remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Shred the ham using two forks.

Method 2: Oven-Baked Pulled Ham

This method offers a slightly crispier exterior while maintaining tender interior.

Prep the Ham: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Score the ham's fat cap.
Bake: Place the ham in a baking dish. Add about 1 cup of liquid (apple cider, beer, or water) to the bottom of the dish. Cover with foil.
Bake and Rest: Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C). Remove foil during the last 30 minutes for crispier skin. Let rest before shredding.
Shred and Serve: Once rested, shred the ham using two forks.

Method 3: Instant Pot Pulled Ham (Fastest Option!)

For those short on time, the Instant Pot is a fantastic option.

Prep the Ham: Score the ham's fat cap.
Instant Pot Cooking: Place the ham in the Instant Pot. Add about 1 cup of liquid (water, apple juice, or broth). Cook on high pressure for 40-60 minutes, depending on the size of your ham. Natural pressure release for 20 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Shred and Serve: Let rest before shredding with two forks.

Flavor Boosters: Taking Pulled Ham to the Next Level

Don't stop at just plain ham! Experiment with these flavor additions:

Brown Sugar Glaze: Brush a brown sugar glaze over the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Spices: Add cloves, allspice berries, or a bay leaf to the cooking liquid for a warm, savory flavor.
Fruit: Incorporate apples, oranges, or pineapple for sweetness and acidity.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage complement the ham beautifully.

Serving Suggestions for Pulled Ham

Pulled ham is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas:

Pulled Ham Sandwiches: Serve on crusty rolls or croissants with your favorite condiments (mustard, mayonnaise, BBQ sauce).
Ham Salad: Mix the pulled ham with mayonnaise, celery, and onion for a classic ham salad.
Mac and Cheese with Pulled Ham: Stir pulled ham into your favorite mac and cheese recipe.
Tacos or Sliders: Use pulled ham as a filling for tacos or mini sliders.
Salads: Add pulled ham to your favorite green salads or potato salads.

Conclusion

Making pulled ham is easier than you think! With a little time and these simple steps, you can create a delicious and impressive meal that's perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different flavors and cooking methods to find your perfect pulled ham recipe. Enjoy!