The Best Type of Ham to Buy, and How to Cook It

“We encourage people to have fun in the kitchen,” she said. “The smoky, salty flavors of the meat pair really well with sweeter or spicier ingredients, so glaze recipes often include honey or molasses, apple cider, brown sugar, pepper and mustard.”

If you choose to glaze, wait to add it until about 15 to 20 minutes before taking the ham out of the oven to keep it from burning, Pall said.

Once the ham is fully reheated, let it rest for about 20 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Some hams come spiral-sliced and can be served immediately.

Since social distancing is now required in so many places and you’re likely stocking your pantry and refrigerator, add ham to your grocery list. Leftover ham can be used in many different recipes, including sandwiches, frittatas, pastas and casseroles.

Proto said he likes to make ham salad by pulsing pieces of ham in a food processor and mixing in mayonnaise. Any bones and attached meat can be tossed into pea or lentil soups, or used to flavor beans.

Ham can be frozen for up to two months, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Proto recommends portioning it out into slices or smaller chunks before freezing to make it easier to use.