Can You Deep Fry A Spiral Ham

So, you're here because you've got a spiral ham and you're wondering, "Can I deep fry this bad boy?" I mean, why not? We've deep fried everything from Oreos to lightbulbs, right?

First things first, let's talk safety. You're dealing with hot oil here, not a warm hug. So, make sure you've got a deep fryer or a large, heavy pot. And for goodness' sake, don't leave it unattended. We don't want any ham-related house fires, do we?

Prep Time

Now, let's prep our ham. You'll want to remove the skin - it's like the ham's winter coat, and it's not going to fry up nicely. Plus, who wants chewy ham skin? Not me, and I'll eat anything if it's deep fried.

Next, score the fat. You know, like you're giving it a little ham tattoo. This helps the fat render out while it's frying. And remember, fat is flavor. We want that flavor to be happy and crispy, not sad and soggy.

Time to Fry

Alright, let's get cooking! Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). You want it hot enough to cook the ham, not just give it a warm bath. And remember, oil temperature drops when you add the ham. So, be patient, let it heat back up.

Now, carefully lower your ham into the oil. If it's not fully submerged, use a spoon or a skimmer to baste it with the hot oil. This helps cook the outside evenly. And hey, if it starts to float, just weigh it down with a clean spoon or a small weight. No need to go full 'A Christmas Story' on us.

Fry it for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's golden brown and crispy. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature - you want it to reach 145°F (63°C). Safety first, folks!

Rest and Serve

Once it's done, carefully remove the ham from the oil and let it rest on a wire rack. This lets the excess oil drip off. And please, don't you dare put it on paper towels. We want crispy, not soggy.

Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it up and serve. And there you have it - deep fried spiral ham. It's like a party in your mouth, and everyone's invited.

But hey, if you're not feeling adventurous, you could always just bake it. I won't judge. Much.