How to Deep Fry a Ham

If you want to try out a new entree this holiday season, a deep fried ham is a tasty alternative to traditional baked ham. Deep frying a ham is just like deep frying a turkey, and the process can be performed very easily with an outdoor fryer kit. Our deep fried ham recipe also includes a sweet and tangy injection marinade. Follow our step-by-step guide for frying a whole ham to create a delicious crispy skin on the outside and juicy, flavorful meat on the inside.

Deep Fried Ham Video

Watch this video for step-by-step instructions that show you how to inject your ham with marinade and then deep fry it using an outdoor fryer kit.

Deep Fried Ham Recipe

Prep your outdoor deep fryer and get ready to make a deep fried ham with our step-by-step recipe.

Equipment for Deep Frying a Ham

• Outdoor deep fryer
• Peanut oil (enough to cover a fully submerged ham)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Marinade injector
• Deep fry thermometer (usually included with a deep fryer kit)
• Lint-free towel
• Large knife

Ham Marinade

• 8 ounces apple cider
• 1 Tablespoon Coleman’s English mustard
• 2 Tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder

Steps to Deep Fry a Ham

We've provided a step-by-step list with pictures to walk you through our deep fried ham recipe.

• 1.

  In a mixing bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider.

• 2.

  Whisk the mixture until completely dissolved.

• 3.

  Add oil to deep fryer, filling stock pot three-quarters of the way full. Leave enough space so oil does not overflow when ham is submerged. Heat oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

• 4.

  Fill injector with marinade and inject ham in multiple spots to disperse flavor. Use as much of the marinade as possible.

• 5.

  Pat ham with lint-free towel to remove excess moisture.

• 6.

  Using a long chef's knife, make a slit that goes all the way through the center of ham. Insert poultry rack into slit.

• 7.

  Lower rack into fryer. Cook ham for 7 minutes per pound, or until core temperature of ham is 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

• 8.

  Remove ham from fryer and allow excess oil to drain off. Carve ham and enjoy!

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Deep Fried Ham FAQs

We answer the most common deep fried ham questions below:

Can You Deep Fry a Ham?

Yes, you can deep fry a ham. Deep frying a ham locks in moisture and reduces the threat of overcooking, a common mishap when using a standard oven. Use an outdoor turkey fryer to safely deep fry a whole ham.

How Long Does It Take to Deep Fry a Ham?

It will take approximately 7 minutes per pound to deep fry a ham.

How Long Do You Deep Fry a 10 lb. Ham?

At 7 minutes per pound, it will take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to deep fry a 10 lb. ham.

What Is the Right Temperature for Deep Frying a Ham?

For deep frying a ham, the oil should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, and the internal temperature of your ham should reach at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Does Ham Need to Rest After Cooking?

Yes, you should rest a ham for at least 20 minutes after cooking. Just like resting a steak, the cooked ham will reabsorb its juices while it sits. Cutting into the ham too soon will cause the juices to run out and the meat will become dry.

Deep frying a whole ham might seem intimidating, but we simplified the process for you with this easy recipe. Impress your guests and create a memorable menu with a mouthwatering deep fried ham this holiday season. If you're looking for other alternatives to a traditional roasted turkey, try a smoked turkey. Learn more about smoking turkeys and other meats in our meat smoking guide!