There’s something truly magical about preparing a glazed ham for the holidays! The sweet, sticky glaze caramelizes beautifully as it bakes, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes your mouth water. I always look forward to this centerpiece during our family gatherings—it’s not just a dish; it’s a tradition that brings everyone together. Picture your loved ones gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating that first slice of juicy, flavorful glazed ham. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish that makes memories, and you’ll want to savor every bite!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create that perfectly glazed ham! Trust me, gathering these ingredients is half the fun, and it all comes together so deliciously.
- 1 fully cooked ham (10-12 pounds) – A bone-in ham is best for flavor and juiciness!
- 1 cup brown sugar – This is where the sweetness comes from, and it caramelizes beautifully.
- 1/2 cup honey – Adds a lovely stickiness and depth to the glaze.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – This gives a nice tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar – Just a splash for a bit of acidity to brighten everything up.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves – A warm spice that enhances the holiday flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Because what’s a holiday feast without a hint of cinnamon?
Make sure to have everything ready before you start, and feel free to adjust any ingredients to fit your taste! You’re going to love how this all comes together.
How to Prepare the Glazed Ham
Now, let’s dive into how to make that beautiful glazed ham! Trust me, it’s easier than you might think, and I promise you’ll be amazed by how delicious it turns out. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
Preheat and Score the Ham
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While that’s heating up, take your fully cooked ham and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern—this not only looks gorgeous but also allows the glaze to seep in beautifully. Make sure to cut through the fat layer but not too deep into the meat!
Prepare the Glaze
Now, let’s whip up that glaze! In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. The glaze should be thick yet pourable—if it’s too thick, just add a splash of apple cider vinegar to loosen it up a bit. Wow, it smells amazing already!
Apply and Bake the Ham
Time to coat our ham! Generously apply the glaze all over the scored surface of the ham, making sure to get it into those diamond cuts. Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it moist while it bakes. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Don’t forget to baste the ham every 30 minutes with the juices that collect in the pan. This is key for that delicious, sticky finish! During the last 30 minutes, remove the foil so it can caramelize beautifully.
Rest and Serve
Once your ham is beautifully glazed and caramelized, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period is super important—it helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and arrange it on a platter. I like to drizzle a bit of the leftover glaze over the slices for that extra touch of sweetness. Your guests will be in awe!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! This glazed ham is not just a feast for the eyes; it also packs a decent nutritional punch. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per slice:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 12g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portions you use. But don’t worry too much about the numbers—this glazed ham is all about enjoying those festive flavors and the joy it brings to your holiday table!
FAQ About Glazed Ham
What type of ham is best for glazing?
When it comes to glazing, I always recommend going for a bone-in ham! It not only adds fantastic flavor but also keeps the meat juicy and tender as it cooks. Look for a fully cooked ham in the 10-12 pound range; it’s the perfect size for feeding a crowd. Trust me, the bone adds a richness that just can’t be beat!
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the glaze ahead of time is a great way to save some stress on the big day. Just mix all your glaze ingredients together, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep well for about 3-5 days. Just give it a little stir before using, and you’re all set to go!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Once the glazed ham has cooled down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can also slice it and store it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, you can freeze the slices! Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks!
- The sweet and savory glaze creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone adores.
- It makes for a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests and family alike.
- The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply heavenly.
- Leftovers are just as delicious and can be used in sandwiches or salads.
- It’s a versatile dish, allowing you to tweak the glaze to fit your personal taste.
- It’s a true holiday classic that brings warmth and joy to every celebration.
Tips for Success
Ready to make your glazed ham the star of the show? Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your ham turns out perfectly every time!
- Choose the right ham: A bone-in ham not only tastes better but also stays juicier during cooking. If you can, opt for a spiral-cut ham for easy slicing!
- Don’t skip the scoring: Scoring the surface in a diamond pattern isn’t just for looks! It allows the glaze to penetrate better, giving you that delicious flavor throughout.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, feel free to cut back on the brown sugar or honey. You can also add a bit more mustard for a tangy kick!
- Baste often: Basting every 30 minutes is crucial for achieving that sticky, caramelized finish. It’s worth the effort—trust me!
- Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for around 140°F (60°C) for the best results.
- Let it rest: After baking, let your glazed ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice moist and tender.
- Get creative with leftovers: Don’t let any of that delicious ham go to waste! Use it in sandwiches, salads, or even add it to breakfast scrambles for a tasty twist!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a glazed ham that’s not just good, but absolutely unforgettable. Happy cooking!
Variations on Glazed Ham
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your glazed ham! This dish is wonderfully versatile, and a few tweaks can take it to a whole new level. Here are some of my favorite variations to inspire your creativity in the kitchen:
- Maple-Glazed Ham: Swap out the brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness. It pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the ham!
- Pineapple Glaze: Add crushed pineapple to your glaze for a tropical twist. Just mix it in with the other ingredients, and enjoy the juicy bursts of flavor!
- Spicy Honey Glaze: If you like a bit of heat, incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the glaze. The sweet and spicy combo is simply irresistible!
- Herb-Infused Glaze: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to your mixture for an aromatic touch. Just chop them finely and mix them in for a fresh, herby flavor profile.
- Ginger and Soy Glaze: For an Asian-inspired twist, try adding soy sauce and freshly grated ginger to your glaze. It gives the ham a savory umami kick that’s delightful!
- Citrus Glaze: Incorporate orange or lemon juice and zest into your glaze for a bright, zesty flavor. It really lightens things up and adds a refreshing note!
Feel free to experiment with these ideas, or even come up with your own unique combinations! The key is to have fun and let your taste buds guide you. Happy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
Now that we’ve got that stunning glazed ham ready to shine, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! The right side dishes can really elevate your meal and bring out the flavors of the ham. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments that pair beautifully with glazed ham:
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes is not only delicious but also adds a lovely pop of color to your table. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until they’re tender and caramelized—yum!
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice! You can make them buttery and rich or add some garlic for an extra kick. They’re perfect for soaking up that sweet glaze!
- Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add a lovely crunch and freshness to your meal. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens everything up!
- Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread is a delightful complement to glazed ham. Its slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with the savory ham, and it’s great for soaking up any leftover glaze!
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can balance the sweetness of the ham beautifully. I love a creamy dressing with a hint of apple cider vinegar for that extra zing!
- Macaroni and Cheese: For a comforting side, you can’t go wrong with a creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. The richness of the cheese works so well with the sweet and savory ham!
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like apples, grapes, and citrus adds a light touch to the meal. It’s a great way to cleanse the palate between bites of ham!
Don’t forget to set the table with some delicious bread rolls or biscuits, too! With these sides, your glazed ham will be the star of a truly memorable holiday feast. Enjoy every moment with your loved ones around the table!
Z nadrukami
Glazed Ham: 7 Irresistible Tips for Your Holiday Feast
- Całkowity Czas: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Ustępować: 12 servings 1x
- Dieta: Bez Glutenu
Opis
A delicious glazed ham recipe for your holiday feast.
Składniki
- 1 fully cooked ham (10–12 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instrukcje
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
- Apply the glaze generously over the ham.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover loosely with foil.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes for a caramelized finish.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Uwagi
- Choose a bone-in ham for better flavor.
- Adjust the glaze ingredients to your taste.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Czas Przygotowania: 20 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 2 hours
- Kategoria: Main Course
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 slice
- Kalorie: 250
- Cukier: 12g
- Sód: 800mg
- Kwasy: 10g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 3g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 5g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 30g
- Włókno: 0g
- Białko: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Słowa kluczowe: glazed ham, holiday ham, baked ham
