Tag: Uncooked ham

According to the USDA, a raw or 'fresh' ham is not a common item in most grocery stores and must be cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F. However, preparing this less-common cut can yield a juicy, tender, and incredibly flavorful result that is far superior to its cured counterparts. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to cook a ham that is not precooked.

Dry-curing can reduce a ham’s weight by 18-25% by removing moisture, a critical step that prevents bacterial growth. So, can you eat dry-cured ham without cooking it? Yes, but it's essential to understand the specific type and preparation method to ensure it's ready-to-eat.