Heritage Baked Ham is your go-to for a special occasion or a comforting Sunday dinner. This recipe brings together a beautiful mix of sweet and savory that's sure to become a family classic. Easy to prepare yet impressive on the table, this ham is a celebration in itself.
The star of the show is the whole bone-in ham. It provides a rich, succulent texture and flavor that's enhanced by slow baking. Brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness, while honey brings a floral note that pairs beautifully with the ham. Dijon mustard lends a subtle tanginess, cutting through the sweetness and adding complexity. Apple cider vinegar balances the flavors with its bright acidity, and a touch of ground cloves gives a warm, aromatic hint that rounds out the glaze.
A side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with this ham. For a fresh contrast, consider a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette. You can also serve it with warm dinner rolls to mop up the delicious pan juices.
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). You'll want it nice and hot to get that ham cooking evenly. Next, place your ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down. This positioning helps the ham stay juicy.
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. This is your glaze, and it's going to do magical things to your ham. Brush this mixture generously over the entire surface of the ham. Don't be shy; make sure it's well-coated to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Once glazed, cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. This keeps it from drying out during its time in the oven. Bake it in your preheated oven for about 2.5 hours. After this initial cooking, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. During this time, baste the ham with the pan juices every 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect caramelization.
When the ham is beautifully caramelized and heated through, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before you slice into it. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice as juicy as possible.
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