When I think of festive meals, the first thing that comes to mind is my family’s Glazed Ham Recipe. This dish has been a staple at our holiday gatherings for as long as I can remember. The sweet and sticky glaze perfectly complements the savory ham, making it a crowd-pleaser. I can still picture my grandma in the kitchen, carefully preparing the ham while the aroma filled our home.
Why Choose Glazed Ham?
Glazed ham is not just for holidays. It’s a versatile dish that works for any gathering. Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper. Plus, it’s easy to slice and serve, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients for Glazed Ham Recipe
Servings: 10-12 servings
Ham Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 lbs)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
How to Make Glazed Ham Recipe
Preparing the ham is simple. First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven heats up, take the ham out of the packaging and place it in a roasting pan. If your ham has a skin, you can score it in a diamond pattern. This step helps the glaze soak into the meat.
Making the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, mix the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Cook this mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory ham.
Glazing the Ham
Once the glaze is ready, brush a generous amount over the ham. Make sure to cover all surfaces. If you have leftover glaze, save it for later. Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes per pound.
Basting the Ham
Every 30 minutes, take the ham out of the oven and baste it with the remaining glaze. This step is crucial for achieving that sticky, caramelized finish. The more you baste, the more flavor you’ll lock in.
How to Tell When the Ham is Done
To check if the ham is done, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also check if the meat is warm throughout.
Resting the Ham
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the ham more tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, I like to slice the ham into thick pieces. Arrange it on a platter and drizzle some of the leftover glaze on top. You can also garnish with fresh parsley, pineapple slices, or cherries for a festive touch.
Storing Leftover Ham
If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze sliced ham for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Ways to Use Leftover Ham
Leftover ham can be transformed into many delicious meals. Here are a few ideas:
- Ham Sandwiches: Layer slices of ham with cheese and your favorite toppings.
- Ham and Cheese Quiche: Add diced ham to your quiche mixture for a savory breakfast.
- Ham Soup: Use leftover ham bone to make a hearty soup with beans and vegetables.
- Ham Fried Rice: Stir-fry diced ham with rice and veggies for a quick meal.
Why This Glazed Ham Recipe is a Family Favorite
This Glazed Ham Recipe has been passed down through generations in my family. It brings everyone together, and the flavors evoke warm memories. The sweet glaze contrasts beautifully with the savory ham, making each bite delightful.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual family gathering, this Glazed Ham Recipe is sure to impress. It’s simple, delicious, and filled with flavor. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do.