Delicious Glazed Ham Recipe

This recipe offers a fresh twist on classic glazed ham, creating an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for any festive occasion. Easy to prepare, it truly showcases how the right balance of sweetness and spice can elevate this traditional centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or a holiday feast, this glazed ham will be the talk of the table.

As a child, I remember my grandmother meticulously preparing this dish every Christmas. The aroma of sizzling ham and the sweet scent of glaze was the highlight of our holiday season. Her recipe was a closely-guarded secret, passed down through generations, which I’ve cherished and tweaked over the years to make it my own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines tradition and innovation, using a unique blend of ingredients to create a rich and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the succulence of the ham. It’s practical enough for any cook to tackle, yet special enough to impress your guests. The glaze carves effortlessly and the leftovers make for a deliciously versatile next-day meal.

Ingredients Notes

While the core ingredient is a hefty cut of ham, the glaze requires a mix of brown sugar, mustard, and cloves to achieve its signature flavor. Consider sourcing fresh cloves and premium-grade mustard for the best results. If necessary, honey can be used as a substitute for brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures a gentle cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld seamlessly.

Step 2

Prepare the ham by scoring its surface in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate deeper, infusing every bite with flavor.

Step 3

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, mustard, and cloves. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4

Brush the glaze generously over the prepared ham. Ensure even coverage for consistent flavors throughout.

Step 5

Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the pan juices every 30 minutes. Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, wrap ham slices tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the ham slices. Reheat gently in a covered dish with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Variations & Substitutions

For a twist, swap the brown sugar for maple syrup. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. If dietary restrictions are a concern, try using a low-sodium ham or a sugar-free substitute for a healthier version.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes or a fresh green bean salad, making it both versatile and satisfying. Serve during festive dinners or weekday family gatherings. Adding a side of tangy apple chutney can further enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to three days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and warm it slightly before applying to the ham. This allows you to save time on the day you plan to serve the dish.

What if I don’t have cloves? While cloves offer a unique spice to the glaze, you can use allspice or nutmeg as a substitute. Each of these alternatives will add their own distinct flavor profile, contributing to the overall taste of the glazed ham.

How do I ensure the ham stays moist? The key is in slow roasting and regular basting. Cover the ham loosely with foil if it starts browning too quickly. Also, ensure to rest the ham after cooking for the juices to redistribute before carving.

Delicious Glazed Ham Recipe

Enjoy this mouth-watering glazed ham with a delightful sweet and savory coating that will be a hit at any gathering. Perfectly balanced with spices and glazed to perfection.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours hours

Total Time: 2 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 8 lb whole ham bone-in, fully cooked
• ▢ 1 cup brown sugar
• ▢ 0.5 cup honey
• ▢ 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ▢ 0.5 tsp ground cloves
• ▢ 0.5 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
• ▢ 1 tsp cinnamon
• ▢ 0.5 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
• In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to make the glaze.
• Brush half of the glaze over the ham.
• Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour.
• Remove foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham. Bake for an additional 30 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.
• Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

This glazed ham pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special family dinner.