This Tropical Honey Pineapple Ham is a sweet and savory delight that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Perfect for holidays or special gatherings, this dish combines tangy pineapple with rich honey glaze for a memorable main course.
The star of the show is the ham, which provides a savory base that's perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the glaze. The pineapple juice adds a tropical tang while also helping to tenderize the meat. Honey brings a natural sweetness that melts beautifully into the glaze. Brown sugar deepens the flavor profile with its caramel-like notes. Dijon mustard adds a slight sharpness that cuts through the sweetness. Ground ginger, cloves, and cinnamon are the spices that lend warmth and complexity. The pineapple slices and maraschino cherries are not just decorative; they add bursts of flavor and color. Finally, cornstarch and water are used to thicken the glaze into a luscious sauce.
This ham pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, a fresh green bean almondine, or a simple mixed greens salad. For a tropical twist, serve it alongside a coconut rice pilaf. A light, fruity white wine or a sparkling apple cider complements the flavors wonderfully.
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures your ham will bake evenly. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan; this keeps it elevated for better air circulation and even cooking. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham with shallow, diamond-shaped cuts. This not only looks pretty but also helps the glaze penetrate deeper for more flavor.
In a small saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved completely. This creates a fragrant and flavorful glaze.
Brush a portion of this glaze generously over the ham. Transfer the ham to the oven and let it bake uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours. During this time, baste the ham with the glaze every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful. Save some of the glaze for later use.
About 30 minutes before the ham is done, arrange the pineapple slices and maraschino cherries over the surface. Secure them with toothpicks if needed. Return the ham to the oven, allowing the fruit to caramelize slightly and infuse the ham with their juices.
While the ham finishes baking, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Add this mixture to the reserved glaze and heat it until it thickens into a sauce. Once the ham is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier slice. Serve the ham with the thickened sauce on the side.
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