When it comes to a show-stopping centerpiece for your family gatherings, a honey-glazed ham is a classic choice that never fails to impress. Its sweet and savory flavors, combined with its tender texture, make it a dish worth celebrating. This recipe will guide you through creating a succulent ham that is sure to leave your guests raving. With easy-to-follow steps and a perfect balance of flavors, you’ll find this dish ideal for holidays, celebrations, or even a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The success of this recipe lies in the simplicity and harmony of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 spiral-cut ham
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Each of these ingredients contributes to the ham’s overall flavor. The brown sugar and honey add a caramelized sweetness, while Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar bring a tangy contrast. Ground cloves offer a subtle, warming spice that enhances the ham’s richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ham
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the spiral-cut ham in a large roasting pan, flat side down. This allows the glaze to seep into the cuts and ensures the ham stays moist.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar fully dissolves. This should take about 3–5 minutes. Once done, remove the glaze from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Glaze the Ham
Using a pastry brush, generously coat the ham with the glaze, making sure to get between the slices for maximum flavor. Reserve some glaze for later basting.
Step 4: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the glaze from burning. Place the roasting pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour.
Step 5: Baste and Finish Baking
After 1 hour, remove the foil and baste the ham with the juices collected in the pan. Repeat this process every 10 minutes for the next 30 minutes. This step ensures the ham remains moist while building up a beautifully caramelized crust.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once the ham is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy and flavorful.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked, spiral-cut ham for convenience and even cooking.
- Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment by adding other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This honey-glazed ham is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. Its sweet and tangy glaze pairs beautifully with side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. It also makes excellent leftovers for sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.
As Julia Child once said, “The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.” The same sentiment applies here—this indulgent dish is worth every calorie.
Nutrition Information
- Serving size: 4 oz
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 8g
Expanding the Dish
To bring even more variety to your table, consider these serving ideas:
- Pineapple-Glazed Version: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical touch.
- Herb-Infused Ham: Include rosemary or thyme in the roasting pan for an earthy aroma.
- Zesty Citrus Glaze: Substitute orange juice for apple cider vinegar to add a bright citrusy flavor.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this honey-glazed ham recipe is guaranteed to be the star of your feast.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about serving a dish that brings everyone together. This honey-glazed ham does just that, with its irresistible aroma, glossy appearance, and delightful taste. Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a casual gathering, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.