Ham 'n Coke

[Cetti]

Before I cook a large piece of ham in Coca Cola, as Nigella suggests, I really need to know if anyone has tried this first - and was it OK or dreadful? I would be grateful for any tips/help etc. Thanks.

[ravenhair]

I've cooked this four or five times now, and it's absolutely delicious. Don't worry that the ham will taste of Coke - it doesn't; it just tastes a little smoky and sweet. I've also experimented and done the ham in cider and in ginger ale. Both of those worked really well too.

[stanbee]

A novel idea that just tastes blah and sweet. Take it or leave it. Would never make it on purpose.

[Cetti]

I love the idea of cider-cooked ham ravenhair - do you think this is a better bet than the coke - last q - does smoked ham work better with these liquids? I'm really grateful for your help and looking forward to doing something a bit different.

[ravenhair]

Hi, Cetti. Actually, I prefer the Coke one, but they're both really good (you honestly don't taste the Coke, don't worry!). I always use smoked ham, as I prefer the taste, but I'm sure either would do. Oh, and one last tip, most of the time I don't bother with the brown sugar crust that Nigella recommends - it makes it look fancier if you're doing it for a dinner party or something, but it tastes just as good without.

[Cetti]

Coke it is, that was the one I wanted to do in the first place. I'm really glad you mentioned about the brown sugar - I wasn't sure if it was that necessary to the finished result or not - here's to you ravenhair, I'm truly grateful for your help!

[dean]

you won't be dissapointed with the result it's fantastic. my tip would be to reduce the sauce on it's own after the ham is cooked down to a lovely syrupy texture.Enjoy!

[Cetti]

Thank you dean for your encouragement - I'm really looking to doing this now!