My understanding is that smoking meat is a method of preserving and cooking at the same time. The carbon gas in the smoke heats the meat and destroys anything that might cause the meat to decay. So I believe that if it is smoked it should be fully cooked. However, some cuts of meat (bacon e.g.) are not very appetizing without further cooking, and typically reheating will not damage the flavor or texture of smoked meats.
In general, pork products are required to state clearly on the packaging whether they are ready to eat or require cooking. When in doubt, follow these packaging instructions.
Smoked ham is generally cooked and cured. There are fresh hams which are not cooked- so be sure to read the label.
If you but a smoked ham, you'll want to bake it for a few hours to add some additional flavor. Try pushing in a handful of whole cloves, top with pineapple slices, or glaze with a nice mustard sauce and bake in your oven at 300-350* for a couple of hours, (depending on the size). This will get the ham heated through and add lots of flavor.
Answers
April 5, 2010
My understanding is that smoking meat is a method of preserving and cooking at the same time. The carbon gas in the smoke heats the meat and destroys anything that might cause the meat to decay. So I believe that if it is smoked it should be fully cooked. However, some cuts of meat (bacon e.g.) are not very appetizing without further cooking, and typically reheating will not damage the flavor or texture of smoked meats.
In general, pork products are required to state clearly on the packaging whether they are ready to eat or require cooking. When in doubt, follow these packaging instructions.
April 5, 2010
Smoked ham is generally cooked and cured. There are fresh hams which are not cooked- so be sure to read the label.
If you but a smoked ham, you'll want to bake it for a few hours to add some additional flavor. Try pushing in a handful of whole cloves, top with pineapple slices, or glaze with a nice mustard sauce and bake in your oven at 300-350* for a couple of hours, (depending on the size). This will get the ham heated through and add lots of flavor.
April 5, 2010
Yes, if it's a smoked ham it is fully cooked.