How to Cook a Delicious Ham

2. Choose a Ham

Most ham packages have a “sell-by” date on the label. The ham should be pink in color, with no sign of gray-colored areas indicating spoilage. Choosing the right size of ham is important. The bigger the ham, the longer it takes to cook it. Longer cooking times reduce the juiciness, leaving the ham dry and hard-to-chew. Bone-in hams are ideal for increased flavor values, and the leftover bones are great for adding flavoring to beans, soups, and other dishes. Boneless hams are easier to slice, however. Plan for a serving of about three-fourths of a pound per person for a bone-in ham, and one-fourth to one-half pound per person for boneless hams.