How to Prepare and Cook an Uncooked Holiday Ham at Home
A ready-to-cook ham needs more planning than a ready-to-eat one. The reward is a fresh-from-the-oven centrepiece, but safe handling and the correct cooking instructions are essential.
This guide explains the process for Lily’s Holiday Ham, a traditionally cured uncooked whole-muscle pork ham. It is not a substitute for the tested cooking directions supplied with your product.
1. Check the label and storage instructions
When your ham arrives, check its condition and the pack guidance. Refrigerate or freeze it as instructed. If it arrives frozen, thaw it safely in the refrigerator rather than on a kitchen counter. The time required depends on the product and your refrigerator.
2. Read the product-specific oven instructions
Before you start, confirm your oven temperature, expected cooking period, tray setup and safe final internal temperature from Lily’s approved instructions. Because these details have not been provided here, we're deliberately not guessing temperatures or times.
3. Plan the kitchen around the ham
Get a roasting tray, clean utensils, a carving board and a working food thermometer ready. Keep raw meat and its juices away from salads, bread and other ready-to-eat foods. Wash your hands and clean equipment after handling uncooked ham.
4. Roast and verify doneness
Follow the supplied oven directions. Measure the centre of the thickest part with a food thermometer, away from any bone if present, and use the required finished temperature and holding time specified in the validated instructions. Do not rely on a browned outside or pink cured-meat colour as proof of safety.
5. Apply the included honey glaze
Lily’s Holiday Ham includes a mini pot of honey glaze. Use it at the stage directed by Lily’s cooking instructions. A glaze may darken quickly, so use the recommended timing rather than leaving the ham unattended.
6. Rest, carve and serve
Follow the supplied resting directions, then slice with a clean knife on a clean board. Serve alongside roast vegetables, mashed potatoes, a salad or warm rolls.
Common questions
Can I eat Lily’s Holiday Ham cold out of the pack? No, it is uncooked. How big is it? Approximately 1.5–1.7 kg before cooking. How many does it serve? About 10–15 guests when included in a larger meal. Do I need to buy glaze? No, honey glaze is included.
Order ahead for Christmas 2026
Deliveries for Lily’s Holiday Ham pre-orders begin 18 November 2026, subject to delivery coverage and available dates.
