Expert: Carol Schlitt - 11/20/2007

Question
Can I derforest a glazed hame in micowave? How long and how high tmp.

Answer
Hi Lydia,

Sure...you can defrost a glazed ham in the microwave.  I suggest doing so at either 50% or 30% power. At 50% power it should take 5 to 6 minutes per pound and at 30% power 8 to 12 minutes per lb.

Start by defrosting for 1/4 of the total estimated time (for a 10 lb ham this would be a 12 to 15 minutes - 50 to 60 minutes at 50% power divided by 4) Shield any areas that feel warm after this initial defrosting time.  Turn the ham over and defrost for the second 1/4 of time or until the surface yields to pressure. Turn over and let stand 10 minutes. Defrost for the third 1/4 time. Shield warm areas and then turn ham over again. Defrost for the remaining time.  Let stand 20 to 30 minutes or until a skewer can be inserted to the center of the ham.

Be sure to refrigerate the ham after defrosting and then use within 4-5 days.  After that time period the ham may be frozen but for maximum quality use the ham within 3 months.

Hope this helps.

Happy defrosting!

Carol