**A Perfectly Cooked Ham**
As we sit down to enjoy our delicious ham, let's take a step back and appreciate the process that went into creating this mouthwatering dish. The recipe begins with the selection of the perfect cut of meat - a brown sugar-glazed ham. The chef starts by pouring a half cup of brown sugar over the meat, allowing for a sweet and caramelized crust to form. This is followed by the addition of a beer glaze, which adds a rich and complex flavor profile.
Next, the chef carefully pours enough beef broth around the meat to create a steaming effect. This technique allows for a tender and juicy ham that's full of flavor. The chef then breaks up some chili into small pieces and adds it to the pot, giving the ham a hint of Mexican flavor. A pat of butter is added on top of the ham, providing a richness and depth of flavor.
The next step is to seal the ham in its pot and place it back on the smoker. The chef adjusts the temperature to 300°F, allowing for a slow and even cooking process. As the ham cooks, the aroma fills the air, tantalizing the taste buds and building anticipation for the final product. After approximately 45 minutes, the internal temperature of the ham reaches 225°, at which point it's removed from the smoker.
**The Magic of Glazing**
The chef then takes a drizzle bottle filled with a mixture of ham juice, beer, brown sugar, and butter, and carefully applies it to the surface of the ham. This glaze adds a sweet and sticky element to the dish, balancing out the savory flavors of the meat. The chef refers to this technique as "au jus," but in his opinion, it's simply a delicious combination of ingredients.
The ham is then basted with barbecue sauce, which adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile. After approximately 8 minutes, the ham is removed from the smoker, and its internal temperature reaches 205°. At this point, the chef proudly presents his masterpiece, showcasing the perfectly glazed surface of the ham.
**The Art of Smoking**
Throughout the cooking process, the chef pays close attention to the temperature on the smoker, ensuring that it's at the perfect level for tenderizing the meat. He also stresses the importance of probing the internal temperature regularly, as this is crucial in preventing overcooking and drying out the meat.
The use of a meat thermometer is emphasized as essential in achieving the perfect doneness. By monitoring the temperature closely, the chef can ensure that every bite of the ham is juicy and flavorful.
**A Tribute to Quality Meat**
As we enjoy our deliciously cooked ham, let's take a moment to appreciate the quality of the meat used in this recipe. The chef expresses gratitude towards Porter Road for their high-quality meats, which are raised with care and attention to detail.
The unique cut of pork wings that was used in this recipe is also highlighted as a key element in its success. The chef notes that cooking something new can be an exciting experience, especially when it comes to trying something entirely different like pork wings.
**A Heartfelt Thank You**
As we conclude our journey through the preparation and cooking of this exquisite ham, let's take a moment to acknowledge those who have made this dish possible. The chef expresses his deepest gratitude towards the servicemen and women who have served in the military, thanking them for their bravery and sacrifice.
The final farewell is also extended to those who participated in filming the video, including Duke, Lulu, and Beig. Although they may not have been able to stay with him throughout the entire shoot, their absence was greatly appreciated by the chef.
**A Cowboy Cooking Tip**
As a final note, the chef shares a little trick for dealing with hot summer days: when the camera overheats, simply stick it in an ice box or freezer for a few minutes to cool off. This simple technique ensures that the cooking process can continue without interruption.
And so, our culinary journey comes full circle as we enjoy the fruits of our labor - a perfectly cooked ham that's sure to become a favorite dish.