Ep 5. Ham I Am

In season 4 episode 5 of Good Eats, titled Ham I Am, host Alton Brown explores the delicious world of ham. He starts by explaining the differences between various types of ham and outlining the essential steps for cooking a ham perfectly. Throughout the episode, Brown shares tips and tricks for selecting, preparing, and serving ham, including a delicious recipe for glazing the meat using ingredients like honey, mustard, and brown sugar.

The episode begins with Brown breaking down the different types of ham, including country hams, city hams, and prosciutto. He explains the differences in taste and texture between each type and offers suggestions for which one might be best for different dishes and occasions.

Next, Brown walks viewers through the process of selecting and preparing a ham for cooking. He recommends looking for a ham that is pink and firm to the touch, with a layer of fat that is evenly distributed. He also highlights the importance of trimming the fat from the ham before cooking it, in order to prevent the meat from becoming too greasy.

With the ham prepped and ready for cooking, Brown moves on to the cooking process itself. He advises viewers to bake the ham at a low temperature for a long period of time, in order to allow the meat to cook through evenly without becoming dry or overcooked.

Along the way, Brown offers various techniques and tips for adding flavor to the ham, such as using a mixture of honey, mustard, and brown sugar to create a delicious glaze. He also suggests incorporating other ingredients like garlic, fresh herbs, or fruit preserves to create a unique flavor profile that will take the ham to the next level.

As the episode progresses, Brown shares additional ideas for using ham in a variety of dishes, from classic ham and cheese sandwiches to more adventurous recipes like ham and spinach stuffed chicken breasts. He also offers tips for storing and reheating leftover ham, so that you can enjoy this delicious meat for days to come.

Overall, the Good Eats episode Ham I Am is a must-watch for anyone who loves ham or is looking to expand their culinary horizons. With Alton Brown as your guide, you'll be sure to learn some new techniques and ideas for creating flavorful, succulent ham dishes that will delight your taste buds. So whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, be sure to tune in and discover the many wonders of ham!