Picture this: a beautiful, succulent glazed ham, glistening and enticing, taking center stage at your holiday table. This glazed ham recipe is not just any ordinary dish; it’s a showstopper that will have your guests raving about the flavors long after the meal is over. The perfect balance of sweetness and savory richness makes this ham irresistible.
Whether it’s for a festive occasion or a cozy family gathering, this glazed ham is sure to impress. The combination of honey, brown sugar, and a hint of mustard creates a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding an amazing depth of flavor.
Celebrating with a Glazed Ham
Imagine a festive gathering where a stunning glazed ham takes center stage, captivating everyone’s attention. This dish not only elevates the meal but also brings warmth and joy to the occasion.
The glazed ham, adorned with a sweet and sticky exterior, is a blend of honey, brown sugar, and a hint of mustard, creating a flavor profile that is both sweet and savory. Each slice reveals juicy, tender meat that promises a delightful taste experience.
Setting the Scene
A beautifully arranged table enhances the presentation of your glazed ham. Fresh herbs and colorful decorations contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere, making guests feel right at home.
Consider complementing the ham with an array of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or creamy potatoes, to create a well-rounded meal. The visual appeal, combined with the enticing aroma of the glazed ham, sets the perfect backdrop for holiday celebrations.
The Art of Glazing
The process of glazing the ham is a craft in itself. Starting with a fully cooked bone-in ham, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern allows the glaze to seep into the meat, enhancing its flavors.
The glaze, simmered to perfection, coats the ham generously, creating a mouthwatering shine. As it bakes, the sugars in the glaze caramelize, forming a beautiful crust that adds to the overall experience of this special dish.
Garnishing for Impact
Once the ham is out of the oven, garnishing can elevate its appearance further. Whole cloves, studded in a decorative manner, not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal.
Fresh herbs, strategically placed around the platter, bring a burst of color and freshness, making the glazed ham an eye-catching centerpiece. This attention to detail showcases the care taken in preparing the meal.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, presentation is key. Slicing the ham reveals the juicy interior, allowing guests to appreciate the beautifully glazed exterior. Pairing it with your favorite sides enhances the flavor and makes for a satisfying meal.
Offering a variety of condiments, such as a tangy mustard or apple sauce, can further complement the glazed ham, providing guests with options to enhance their dining experience.
Making Memories
A beautifully glazed ham is not just a dish; it’s a centerpiece that invites conversation and connection among family and friends. Sharing meals around the table fosters relationships and creates lasting memories.
This holiday season, let a stunning glazed ham be the highlight of your gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to every occasion. The flavors and aromas will linger long after the last slice has been served, making it a cherished tradition for years to come.
The Ultimate Glazed Ham Recipe
This glazed ham is juicy and tender with a sweet, sticky exterior that enhances its natural flavors. The taste is a delightful mix of sweetness and savory notes, making each slice a flavorful experience.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup apple cider or orange juice
- Whole cloves for studding the ham (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, cut-side down. If desired, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud with whole cloves.
- Make the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and apple cider. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Glaze the Ham: Brush the glaze all over the ham, reserving some for basting later.
- Bake: Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until heated through. Baste every 30 minutes with the reserved glaze.
- Caramelize: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully.
- Serve: Once done, remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 12 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
