How Do I Roast a Picnic Ham?

By: M.H. Dyer

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Roasting a picnic ham, also known as a picnic shoulder, is nearly effortless. Picnic ham, cut from the upper front leg of the hog, is a somewhat tougher but tasty alternative to expensive, traditional hams cut from the back leg. You can also dress up a roasted picnic ham with a simple, sweet and tangy glaze made of ingredients such as pineapple, orange marmalade or brown sugar. Once cooked, you can serve the ham immediately, chill it for later use or incorporate it into dishes such as pork and beans or soup.

Step 1

Place the ham on a rack in a shallow roasting pan with the fat side facing up. Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the ham. If the picnic ham is bone-in, be sure the thermometer doesn't touch the bone.

Step 2

Pour about 1/2 cup of water into the roasting pan then cover the pan securely with aluminum foil.

Step 3

Brush the picnic ham with a glaze, if desired. Make a thick, syrupy glaze consisting of ingredients such as honey or maple syrup, or mix brown sugar with liquids like apple cider, orange juice or beer. Flavor the glaze with mustard or herbs such as parsley or chives. Baste the ham with the glaze every 15 to 30 minutes throughout the cooking time.