What Kind of Ham Should I Buy?

You are shopping for a ham but you have no idea which one to buy. Here is a brief synopsis of different kinds of ham and how they need to be prepared.

Fully Cooked Ham
This is the most popular kind of ham in most supermarkets today. It is fully cooked and ready to eat as soon as you buy it. If you plan on serving your ham warm, bake until the internal temperature reaches 140F.

Cook Before Eating
These hams are processed much in the same way as fully cooked hams, but they are not completely cooked. Once you get it home you will need to heat the ham until it reaches an internal temperature of 160F.

Country Style Hams
These hams are prepared with a special process that gives them a very distinct flavor. Because of the process in which they are made, they can be slightly saltier than other kinds of hams. Since there are so many different kinds on the market, make sure that you follow the packaging directions for best results.

Turkey Ham
These hams are usually skinless and boneless. Turky thigh meat is prepared, smoked and salted to taste like a pork ham. If you would like to serve turkey ham warm, you can heat it to 140f.