Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham is the star of any festive feast. This recipe combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the kick of bourbon, creating a glaze that's perfect for enhancing the rich flavor of ham. It's a cozy, indulgent centerpiece for your holiday table.
Ham: A bone-in, fully cooked ham weighing 8-10 lbs is the foundation of this dish. It's tender, juicy, and absorbs the glaze beautifully.
Maple syrup: This adds a rich, sweet note that balances the savory flavors of the ham.
Bourbon: Provides depth and a hint of warmth, complementing the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Brown sugar: Enhances the caramelization of the glaze, adding a rich molasses flavor.
Dijon mustard: Brings a tangy sharpness that cuts through the sweetness, balancing the flavors.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity to the glaze, ensuring it's not overly sweet.
Cloves: Whole cloves infuse the ham with a warm, spicy aroma that's quintessentially festive.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle spiciness that pairs well with the sweetness of the glaze.
Ground nutmeg: Provides a nutty, sweet undertone that rounds out the flavors.
This ham pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes. For a touch of freshness, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. A side of creamy mashed potatoes also complements the flavors nicely.
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Make sure to position the oven rack in the lower third to allow even cooking. While the oven heats, start on the glaze. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to ensure everything is blended smoothly.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. You'll know it's ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Once thickened, remove the glaze from the heat and set it aside.
Now, take your ham and place it in a roasting pan. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This not only looks pretty but helps the glaze penetrate the meat. Brush half of the prepared glaze over the ham, ensuring you get it into all the nooks and crannies.
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Let it bake for 1.5 hours. After this, remove the foil and baste the ham with the remaining glaze. Return it to the oven and continue baking for another 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Once done, let the ham rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice. Then, carve it up and serve!
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