Cranberry Glaze for Ham Recipe

Cranberry Glaze for Ham Recipe

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Cranberry glaze for ham recipe is a delicious way to add flavor and moisture to your holiday meals. The tartness of cranberries pairs beautifully with the savory taste of ham. This glaze is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. It is simple to make and will impress your family and friends.

I have been preparing this glaze for years, and every time I serve it, people ask for the recipe. With its sweet and tangy profile, it compliments the salty goodness of ham perfectly. Join me as I take you step by step through making this delightful cranberry glaze for your next ham dish.

Ingredients for Cranberry Glaze for Ham Recipe

To get started, gather all your ingredients. Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1 tsp grated orange zest
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)

How to Make Cranberry Glaze for Ham Recipe

Making cranberry glaze is easy and quick. Here’s the step-by-step process:

  1. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice.
  2. Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally.
  3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries burst and thicken.
  1. Add zest and spices: Stir in the orange zest and ground spices if using. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Blend if needed: If you want a smoother glaze, you can blend it with an immersion blender.

This glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.

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Choosing the Best Ham

Selecting the right ham is essential for a delicious meal. Here are some tips:

  • Type of Ham: Choose between bone-in or boneless ham. Bone-in offers more flavor, while boneless is easier to slice.
  • Pre-cooked or Raw: Most hams available are pre-cooked. Double-check cooking instructions when buying.
  • Size: Consider how many people will be served. A standard serving is about ¼ to ⅓ pound per person.

How to Prepare Ham with Cranberry Glaze

Once you have your ham and glaze ready, here’s how to prepare it:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Prepare Ham: Score the surface of your ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to seep in and flavor the meat.
  3. Apply Glaze: Brush a layer of the cranberry glaze all over the ham.
  1. Bake: Place the ham in a roasting pan. Bake according to the weight of the ham, usually about 15-18 minutes per pound.
  2. Baste: Halfway through cooking, baste the ham with more glaze.
  3. Finish: When the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), it’s ready. Let it rest before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your glazed ham, there are plenty of options. Here are a few:

  • Side Dishes: Pair your ham with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. The cranberry glaze can also complement mashed sweet potatoes nicely.
  • Salads: A fresh salad can balance the richness of the ham. Consider a spinach salad with toasted nuts and feta.
  • Breads: Warm dinner rolls or cornbread go wonderfully with ham. They can soak up the extra glaze too.
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Storage Tips for Leftover Glaze and Ham

After your meal, you may have some leftover glaze and ham. Here’s how to store them properly:

  • Cranberry Glaze: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for up to three months.
  • Cooked Ham: Wrap leftover ham in plastic wrap and then foil. Refrigerate for up to five days. You can also freeze sliced ham for longer storage.

Using Leftover Ham

Leftover ham can be repurposed in various delicious dishes. Here are some ideas:

  • Ham Sandwiches: Use slices of ham in sandwiches with your favorite toppings.
  • Quiche: Add diced ham to quiche or frittata for a hearty breakfast.
  • Soups and Stews: Diced ham adds flavor to soups and stews. It’s perfect in split pea soup or potato soup.
  • Salads: Toss chopped ham in salads for added protein.

Variations of Cranberry Glaze for Ham Recipe

If you want to try something different with your cranberry glaze, consider these variations:

  • Add Spices: Mix in cloves or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
  • Maple Syrup: Substitute some sugar with maple syrup for a hint of earthy sweetness.
  • Mustard: A tablespoon of Dijon mustard can add a nice tang to the glaze.

Tips for Cranberry Glaze for Ham Recipe

To ensure your cranberry glaze turns out great every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh cranberries. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed.
  • Taste as You Go: Everyone’s taste preferences are different. Adjust sweetness and acidity by adding sugar or orange juice to your liking.
  • Don’t Rush the Cooking: Letting the cranberries fully burst and thicken really enhances the flavor.
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This cranberry glaze for ham recipe is a perfect addition to your festive meals. Its flavors are sure to impress everyone at the table. I hope you enjoy making and serving this delicious glaze. Happy cooking!