This is a culinary adventure that combines the smoky essence of campfire cooking with the unexpected juiciness and sweetness of watermelon. Here's how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece:
- Select the Right Watermelon: Choose a large, ripe watermelon that can comfortably fit your ham inside. The bigger, the better – you need enough space for your ham and some extra room for the magic to happen.
- Prepare the Watermelon: Slice off the top of the watermelon to create a lid, similar to carving a pumpkin. Using a spoon or melon baller, hollow out the watermelon, removing all the fruit. You can save the watermelon flesh for a refreshing snack or a side dish.
- Prepare the Ham: If your ham is pre-cooked (as most are), you're simply reheating and infusing it with watermelon's moisture and sweetness. If it's raw, ensure it will have enough time over the coals to reach a safe internal temperature. You might want to consider pre-cooking it slightly before the campfire stage.
- Season as Desired: Though the watermelon will impart its own flavor, you can still season your ham according to your preferences. A little brown sugar, honey, or a spice rub can complement the sweetness of the melon and add depth to the dish.
- Insert the Ham into the Watermelon: Place your ham inside the hollowed-out watermelon and put the "lid" back on top. For extra security, you can use skewers or kitchen twine to keep it closed.
- Bake Over the Coals: Place the watermelon on a grill grate over a bed of hot coals. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the ham and the heat of the coals, but a good rule of thumb is to allow about 10 minutes per pound of ham. The watermelon will begin to caramelize and char on the outside; this is normal and part of the process.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham has reached the appropriate internal temperature for safe eating—145°F (63°C) for pre-cooked hams that are being reheated, and 160°F (71°C) for fresh hams.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once done, let the watermelon ham rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve directly from the watermelon for a dramatic presentation, or remove the ham and slice it as you would normally.
This Watermelon Ham is not only a delicious addition to your campfire cooking repertoire but also a conversation starter that'll have your fellow scouts talking for camps to come. The combination of smoky, savory ham and the subtle sweetness of watermelon creates a flavor profile that's truly unique and utterly delicious.