Japanese Ham Recipe

Ham: Sliced ham is the main protein in this dish, providing a savory base that absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor that is essential in Japanese cooking.

Mirin: A sweet rice wine that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and adds depth to the dish.

Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the mirin and helps caramelize the ham.

Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a spicy, aromatic kick that complements the other flavors.

When preparing this dish, ensure that the ham slices are evenly coated with the sauce mixture. This can be achieved by gently massaging the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and ginger mixture into the ham slices before placing them in the baking dish. This step helps to infuse the flavors more deeply into the ham, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic dish. Additionally, basting the ham occasionally during baking ensures that the sauce remains evenly distributed and prevents the ham from drying out.

• sliced ham - Substitute with turkey slices: Turkey slices provide a similar texture and can be flavored similarly to ham, making them a good alternative for those avoiding pork.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and offers a similar umami flavor, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• mirin - Substitute with dry sherry: Dry sherry can mimic the sweetness and slight acidity of mirin, making it a good substitute in recipes.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can add a slight floral note, making it a good alternative to sugar.

• grated ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in place of fresh grated ginger, though it is more concentrated, so use less to avoid overpowering the dish.

• Allow the ham to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the ham soggy.
• Transfer the cooled ham slices to an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will keep the ham fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
• Store the ham in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the ham. Place the ham slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents the slices from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the ham slices to a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date.
• Frozen ham can be stored for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, try to use it within this timeframe.
• When ready to use, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
• Reheat the ham gently in a microwave, oven, or on the stovetop. Add a splash of soy sauce or mirin to refresh the flavors if needed.
• Serve the reheated ham with rice or vegetables for a quick and delicious meal.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Place the leftover ham in a baking dish, cover it with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can add a bit of the original sauce or a splash of soy sauce to keep it juicy.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the ham slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. You can also pour a bit of the original sauce over the ham while reheating.

• Microwave Method: Place the ham slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a spoonful of the original sauce or a bit of water to keep it moist.

• Steaming Method: Set up a steamer or use a pot with a steaming rack. Bring water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Place the ham slices on a heatproof plate and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the ham's moisture and flavor.

• Sous Vide Method: If you have a sous vide machine, set it to 60°C (140°F). Place the ham slices in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable bag with the air removed. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 30 minutes. This method ensures the ham remains tender and juicy.

• Oven: Used to bake the ham at a consistent temperature of 180°C (350°F).

• Small bowl: Utilized to mix the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and grated ginger together.

• Baking dish: Holds the ham slices and sauce while baking in the oven.

• Basting brush: Helps to baste the ham occasionally with the sauce during baking.

• Grater: Used to grate the ginger for the sauce.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and grated ginger.

• Knife: If needed, to slice the ham if it isn't pre-sliced.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to slice the ham if necessary.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and ginger in advance and store it in the fridge.

Use pre-sliced ham: Buy sliced ham to avoid the hassle of slicing it yourself.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper or foil to line the dish for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Microwave basting: Warm the sauce in the microwave for easier basting.