How to Store a Country Ham: Essential Tips for Preservation

How to store a country ham properly preserves its flavor and texture, ensuring it can be enjoyed to its fullest.

For proper storage, a whole, uncut country ham should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A pantry or cellar is often ideal for storing. Keep it wrapped in a breathable cloth or brown paper.

An uncooked, cut country ham can be refrigerated for two to three months or frozen for one month.

A cooked Country Ham should be refrigerated for seven days and or frozen for one month to ensure quality.

A packaged ham from the store should be refrigerated and stored in the coldest part of the fridge. Ensure the seal remains unbroken.

This article explains each storage method in complete detail and starts with the initial inspection. This includes storing the ham at room temperature, refrigerator or freezer. Also whole, uncooked, cooked, cut, uncut and what to do with mold.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Keto Tip: Good news! You don’t have to give up your favorite bread, pizza and sandwiches to follow a 100% Keto Diet. Find out here, Keto Breads.

Country ham with eggs and muffins. — Country ham with eggs and muffins

Initial Inspection

Before storing country ham, it is important to perform a thorough inspection. Look for any signs of mold, discoloration, or strong off-putting smells. These could indicate spoilage. Be sure to check the entire surface carefully, including crevices and edges.

If some mold is present, it is often harmless. Use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe it away. Also, a mixture of vinegar and water can be used.

Tip: Wearing gloves during this process can help prevent contamination and protect your hands.

Once clean, ensure that the ham is completely dry before moving on. Moisture can affect the quality of the ham over time. A dry ham is less likely to develop unwanted mold.

How to Store an Uncooked, Uncut Country Ham at Room Temperature

Uncooked, uncut country ham can be safely stored at room temperature if done correctly. Ensure the space is dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold growth.

Maintain a consistent room temperature, ideally between 50°F and 70°F. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, as this can cause fluctuations in temperature and humidity, potentially damaging the ham.

Hanging the ham is a traditional method. It should be suspended from a hook in a cool, dry place. Use twine or a strong cord to ensure it is securely fastened. This allows for air circulation around the ham.

Cover the ham with a breathable cloth, such as muslin or brown paper. This helps protect it from dust and insects while allowing moisture to escape. Avoid plastic wraps, as these can trap moisture and cause spoilage.

Monitor the ham regularly for signs of mold or drying. A small amount of surface mold is natural and can be scrubbed off with a brush and vinegar or water. Discard if there are any signs of deep, discolored mold.

These guidelines will help preserve the quality and flavor of the ham while it remains at room temperature.

How to Store an Uncooked, Cut Country Ham in the Refrigerator

When storing uncooked, cut country ham in the refrigerator, wrapping is key. Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to tightly cover each piece. This prevents air exposure, preserving moisture and flavor.

Place the wrapped ham in a shallow, airtight container. This helps to reduce odor transfer and maintain freshness. A suitable container keeps the refrigerator cleaner and more organized.

Set the refrigerator’s temperature to 40°F (4°C) or below. Keep the ham in the coldest part, usually the lower shelves, to ensure it remains at a safe temperature. This helps prevent bacterial growth.

Check the ham regularly for any signs of spoilage. Look for changes in color or smell; these can indicate the ham has gone bad. If you notice any spoilage, discard the ham immediately.

Label the packaging with the date of storage. This helps track its freshness. The USDA says an uncooked, cut country ham can be refrigerated for two to three months.

For extended storage needs, consider freezing and read the next section.

A cooked ham. — A cooked ham Pin to Pinterest

How to Store an Uncooked, Cut Country Ham in the Freezer

Freezing is a reliable method to preserve the freshness of an uncooked, cut country ham. Start by ensuring the ham is cut into manageable pieces, which makes it easier to use later.

Wrap the Ham Properly:

Use heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer paper to wrap each piece.
Follow up with an airtight plastic freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.

A vacuum sealer is the best way to remove as much excess air as possible. Once you use a vacuum sealer you’ll wonder how you did without one. There are many affordable ones on Amazon, I use one made by FoodSaver. Check them out here, vacuum sealers.

Label Clearly:

Write the date of freezing on each package.
Include a brief description, like the type of cut.

Storage Temperature:

Set the freezer to 0°F (-18°C) or below.
Use a thermometer to check periodically.

Avoid Fluctuations:

Consistent temperature is key for maintaining quality. Minimize opening the freezer door frequently.

Shelf Life:

An uncooked, cut country ham can be stored in the freezer for up to one month according to the USDA. This timeframe ensures the best flavor and texture.

Thawing Method:

When ready to use, thaw the ham in the refrigerator. Allow ample time, as larger cuts may take several hours or overnight to completely thaw.

How to Store a Cooked Country Ham in the Refrigerator

Storing a cooked country ham properly in the refrigerator ensures it remains moist and safe to eat. Begin by letting the ham cool to room temperature after cooking.

Wrap the ham tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents any odors in the refrigerator from affecting the flavor of the ham.

Keep the refrigerator set at a temperature of 34°F to 40°F (1°C to 4°C). This range is optimal for food safety and helps slow bacterial growth.

Storage Tips:

Use a shallow container: This allows the cool air to circulate around the ham evenly.
Label the container with the date to track how long it has been stored. A cooked country ham should not be kept in the refrigerator for more than 7 days according to the USDA.
Avoid direct contact with other foods to prevent cross-contamination.

If the ham isn’t eaten within a few days, consider freezing it for longer storage and read the next section.

How to Store a Cooked Country Ham in the Freezer

Storing a cooked country ham in the freezer can extend its shelf life significantly. Begin by making sure the ham is cooled completely. This helps maintain the texture when reheated.

Wrap the Ham Properly:
Use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or freezer paper. Ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Consider double-wrapping for extra protection.

Label and Date:
Using a permanent marker, label the package with the date of freezing. This assists in keeping track of storage time.

Use an Airtight Container:
Place the wrapped ham inside an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. This reduces air exposure and odors that can alter the flavor.

Maintain Freezer Temperature:
Ensure the freezer is set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower. Consistent temperature preserves the ham’s quality for a longer duration.

Storage Duration:
A cooked country ham can be stored in the freezer for up to one month for the best quality. While it is safe after this period, quality may diminish.

Thawing Before Use:
For best results, thaw the ham in the refrigerator. This process may take 24-48 hours, ensuring even and safe thawing.

How to clean and store a country ham.

How to Store an Uncooked, Packaged Ham from the Store in the Fridge or Freezer

When storing an uncooked, packaged ham, maintaining its freshness is crucial. Refrigeration is ideal if you plan to use the ham within a few days. Simply place it in the coldest part of the fridge.

Make sure the seal is not broken. If the seal breaks, the ham should be stored in an airtight container and eaten within seven days.

If more extended storage is needed, consider freezing the ham. Wrap the ham in an additional layer of aluminum foil or plastic wrap to preserve its quality. Store it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This helps to prevent freezer burn.

How to Store a Cooked Packaged Ham from the Store in the Fridge or Freezer

When storing cooked packaged ham, refrigeration is key. Place the ham in the coldest part of the fridge. Ensure it is well-sealed to maintain freshness and prevent odor spread.

Ensure the seal remains intact.

Consider freezing the ham for extended storage. For extra protection, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or freezer paper. Use an airtight container or freezer bag for additional protection.

Storage Guidelines:

Fridge: Store at or below 40°F (4°C).
Freezer: Ideal temperature is 0°F (-18°C). Safely stored for up to 1-2 months.

Tips for Storing in the Fridge:

Keep the original packaging intact.
Label with the date to track freshness.

Tips for Freezing Ham:

Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

Remember to maintain cleanliness. Clean the storage area in the fridge or freezer periodically. This prevents contamination and ensures the ham stays safe to eat.

Handling Mold on Country Hams

Country hams naturally develop mold during the curing process. This mold is often harmless and part of the ham’s unique character. Examine the ham thoroughly to identify surface mold. Most molds appear white or greenish, growing due to the aging process in storage.

Steps to Remove Mold:

Dry Brush: Use a dry, stiff brush to scrub off surface mold.
Wash: Mix equal parts of vinegar and water. Use the solution to wipe the ham.
Dry: Pat the ham dry with a clean cloth or towel.

Note: Ensure the ham stays dry to prevent further mold growth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents, as they may alter the taste.

If stronger mold is present, repeat the washing process. Store the ham in a cool, dry place to maintain quality. This storage helps discourage mold recurrence.

Always discard any ham with unusual odors or colors. Mold that penetrates beyond the surface may indicate spoilage and should not be consumed.