Freezing ham, is it a good idea?
Freezing ham before or after cooking often causes changes in flavour and texture. Any ham, frozen and then defrosted, might look and feel spongy and may taste saltier. It may not be ideal for company and would be better used in cooked dishes, such as soups, pizza or casseroles.
Cut cooked ham into bite-size pieces before freezing, package in airtight freezing containers or bags, then thaw when needed or add frozen to a dish that will be heated.
Freezing sliced deli ham might make it very moist when thawed. If the flavour is still good, blot the slices dry before using. These thin slices can be used in some great recipes. Try our Baked Eggs in Ham Cups or Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets.
The recommended time for keeping ham frozen depends on if it is cooked or uncooked, cured or not:
- Uncured, uncooked ham can be stored for up to 6 months.
- Cured, uncooked ham can be stored for up to 4 months.
- Cured, cooked ham can be stored for up to 2 months.
Previously cooked ham shines as the star in many of our recipes.
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| Casseroles | |
| Sandwiches | |
| Soups | |
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Looking to cook a ham tonight?
From figuring out ham size to finding the perfect glaze, we have more ham information here.