Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
This Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Glaze is your ticket to a show-stopping holiday ham. With its sweet and tangy flavor, it adds a delightful twist to the traditional ham, making it perfect for festive gatherings or special family dinners.
Share
Ingredients for Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
Crushed pineapple provides a natural sweetness and tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with ham. Brown sugar adds deep, molasses-like sweetness, enhancing the caramelization process. Honey complements the sugars, adding a unique floral note. Apple cider vinegar introduces a tangy element that cuts through the richness. Dijon mustard adds a subtle hint of spice. Ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg bring warmth and depth, while a pinch of salt balances out all the flavors.
Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Tips & Tricks
- If you prefer a smoother glaze, strain the pineapple bits after cooking.
- For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger.
- Prepare the glaze a day in advance to save time on the big day.
Serving Ideas for Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Glaze
This glaze pairs wonderfully with a holiday ham. Serve alongside roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes. For a refreshing contrast, consider a side of tangy coleslaw or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
- Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Just chop it finely and use a bit more if you like extra pineapple flavor.
- How long does the glaze last?
- Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it can last up to a week.
- Can I use this glaze on other meats?
- Absolutely! It works great on pork chops, chicken, or even as a dip for meatballs.
Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Recipe Walkthrough
Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. Pour in the crushed pineapple, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Next, introduce the Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt into the mix. Stir again to ensure all the spices are well incorporated.
Place the saucepan over medium heat. You’ll want to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer away for about 10 minutes. This is when the magic happens — the glaze will thicken slightly. Remember to stir occasionally; this prevents sticking and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Once it’s ready, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the glaze to cool slightly. It'll be ready to use on your ham during the last 30 minutes of baking. Just brush it generously on top and let it work its magic.
Why This Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Glaze Works
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Versatile enough to use on other meats or even as a dipping sauce.
- Creates a beautiful caramelized finish on your ham.
Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed pineapple
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. In a medium saucepan, combine crushed pineapple, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
- 2. Stir in Dijon mustard, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- 3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- 4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- 5. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even consistency.
- 6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using it to glaze the ham during the last 30 minutes of baking.