Honestly? You can eat it cold. Slap it on a sandwich with some mustard and Swiss cheese, and you’re living the dream. But if you’re serving a crowd, baking it transforms it from “meat” to “main event.”
The aroma alone will make your in-laws forget they’re arguing about politics. It’s that powerful.
One last pro tip
Let the ham rest for 10 to 15 minutes after it comes out of the oven. The juices need a minute to settle down. You wouldn’t run a marathon and immediately dive into a pool, would you? (Don’t answer that.)
Slice it up, arrange it on a platter, and watch everyone marvel at your brilliance. Then whisper, “It was already cooked, I just warmed it.” Let them think you’re a kitchen wizard. Your secret’s safe with me.
