Traditional Glazed Ham

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 2 hours
🍽 Serves: 12
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Traditional Glazed Ham is a showstopper at any gathering, offering a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors. This classic dish is ideal for holidays or any special occasion where you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients for Traditional Glazed Ham

Ham is the star of the show, providing a rich, savory base that pairs perfectly with sweet glazes. Choose a bone-in variety for maximum flavor. Brown sugar adds a deep sweetness that balances the saltiness of the ham. Dijon mustard offers a subtle tanginess that cuts through the sweetness for a more complex flavor profile. Apple cider vinegar brings a bit of acidity to brighten the glaze. Honey adds a smooth, floral sweetness that complements the other ingredients. Finally, ground cloves and cinnamon introduce warm, aromatic notes that elevate the overall flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a sharp knife for scoring the ham to make clean cuts without tearing the meat.
  • For a thicker glaze, reduce the mixture on the stove over low heat before applying.
  • Check the ham’s temperature with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  • To prevent sticking, line your roasting pan with parchment paper.

Serving Suggestions

This glazed ham pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. A side of creamy mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw can also complement the flavors perfectly. For an elevated touch, serve with a warm apple compote or cranberry sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
Yes, but be cautious as it might dry out faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don't have Dijon mustard?
Yellow mustard can work in a pinch, though it will alter the taste slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Traditional Glazed Ham Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This lower temperature ensures the ham cooks evenly without drying out. While the oven is warming up, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This might sound fancy, but it's just a series of shallow cuts that help the glaze seep deep into the meat. Place your scored ham into a roasting pan.

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, ground cloves, and cinnamon. Stir until everything is well mixed, and you've got a glossy, fragrant glaze. Brush half of this glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into those cuts you made earlier.

Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to keep it moist, then slide it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for about 1 1/2 hours. This gives you plenty of time to prepare any side dishes or relax with a good book.

After the initial baking period, remove the foil and apply the remaining glaze. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) to help the glaze caramelize. Bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning. You’re looking for the glaze to be deep brown and slightly sticky. Check that the internal temperature of the ham has reached 140°F (60°C) for safe eating.

Once done, let the ham rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making sure every slice is juicy and flavorful. Slice it up and serve to your eagerly awaiting guests.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a delightful crunch.
  • The scoring technique ensures the glaze penetrates deeply, enhancing every bite.
  • It's surprisingly easy to prepare, yet looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients

1 whole bone-in ham (10-12 lbs)
2 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan.
3. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, cloves, and cinnamon to form the glaze.
4. Brush half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it gets into the scored cuts.
5. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and apply the remaining glaze.
8. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C).
9. Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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