How to Smoke a Ham in a MasterBuilt Electric Smoker
MasterBuilt Electric Smokers have become popular among home cooks and enthusiasts who enjoy the art of smoking meats like hams. These smokers offer precise temperature control, which is crucial for achieving perfectly smoked ham. Here’s how you can set up your MasterBuilt Electric Smoker and prepare your ham for smoking:
Step 1: Choose Your Ham
Selecting the right type of ham is essential. A whole pork shoulder or loin is ideal as it provides ample meat for smoking. Ensure that your ham has been properly cured and brined according to the manufacturer’s instructions before placing it in the smoker.
Step 2: Preheat Your Smoker
Before placing your ham inside the smoker, preheat it to the desired smoking temperature. For a whole ham, aim for a temperature range between 250°F (121°C) and 300°F (149°C). Use a digital thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.
Step 3: Assemble Your Setup
Arrange your MasterBuilt Electric Smoker on a level surface with enough space around it to allow airflow. Place your ham onto the rack provided by the smoker. If using a separate rack, make sure it fits snugly within the smoker’s frame.
Step 4: Prepare the Wood Chips
For optimal flavor, use hardwood chips such as applewood, cherrywood, or mesquite. Crush them into small pieces and place them at the bottom of the smoker along with some water to create steam during the cooking process.
Step 5: Set Up the Temperature Control
Adjust the thermostat to the appropriate setting based on the type of wood used. Most MasterBuilds come equipped with adjustable heat settings, allowing you to fine-tune the temperature as needed.
Step 6: Start Smoking
Once everything is prepped, close the lid of the smoker and begin smoking. Monitor the temperature closely throughout the entire process. The smoking time will depend on factors such as the size of the ham, its weight, and the desired doneness.
Step 7: Check Doneness
When the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, check its readiness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham. For a fully cooked ham, this should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 8: Rest and Serve
After removing the ham from the smoker, let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
Additional Tips
- Smoke Time: Typically, a whole ham requires approximately 10 hours of smoking time, but this can vary depending on personal preference and humidity levels.
- Wood Types: Experiment with different types of wood to achieve unique flavors. Each wood adds its own distinct aroma and taste to the final product.
- Water Management: Be cautious when adding water to the smoker, especially if using hardwood chips. Excessive moisture can lead to burning and spoilage.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to smoke your ham to perfection using your MasterBuilt Electric Smoker. Enjoy the rich, smoky flavor that only comes from slow-cooked, carefully prepared meats!