Prairie Roasted Ham

Makes 10 servings

Ingredients

• 8 - pounds fresh ham, whole or half
• 2 - bay leaves, crumbled
• 1 - teaspoon dried sage or thyme
• 1 - garlic clove, minced
• 2 - teaspoons salt
• 2 - teaspoons freshly ground pepper or crushed peppercorns
• 2 - Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 - cup chicken broth

Directions

Preheat oven to 300° F.

1. Score the ham by cutting cross-hatched gashes through the rind and fat.
2. In a mixing bowl, add the bay leaves, sage or thyme, garlic, salt and pepper.
3. Rub into the gashes.
4. Place ham on a roasting pan rack, fat side up, and place in oven.
5. Slowly roast for 2-1/2 hours (25-minutes per pound).
6. During the last 20 minutes, increase temperature to 375° F. and baste frequently with the drippings.  
7. You want to have a crisp, brown skin.  
8. When done, set aside on platter.
9. Skim most of the fat from the drippings, and stir in the flour.  
10. Gradually add the broth and cook briskly, stirring continues, until thickened.  
11. Serve in gravy boat.