Table of Contents

Honey Baked Ham with Glaze: A Festive Delight

Introduction

The holiday season is synonymous with gatherings, celebrations, and, of course, delicious food. One dish that stands out as a centerpiece for any festive table is a beautifully honey baked ham with a sweet and tangy glaze. This recipe combines the rich flavors of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, creating a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the ham. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, a holiday party, or a special family gathering, this honey baked ham will be the star of your table.

The History of Holiday Ham

Ham has been a traditional holiday dish for centuries, with its roots tracing back to ancient Europe. In many cultures, ham was a symbol of prosperity and abundance, often served during significant celebrations. The practice of glazing ham with sweet ingredients like honey and sugar became popular in the 19th century, adding a delightful contrast to the savory meat. Today, honey baked ham remains a beloved holiday staple, cherished for its rich flavor and festive presentation.

Ingredients

To make this delectable honey baked ham, you will need the following ingredients:

1 fully cooked ham (8-10 pounds): Choose a high-quality ham for the best results. A bone-in ham often has more flavor and moisture.
1 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust.
1/2 cup honey: Enhances the sweetness and adds a rich, floral flavor.
1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness, adding depth to the glaze.
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the flavors and tenderize the meat.
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a warm, aromatic touch that complements the other ingredients.

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature ensures that the honey baked ham heats through evenly without drying out.

Step 2: Score the Ham

Place the ham on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This step is crucial as it allows the glaze to penetrate the meat, infusing it with flavor. Make shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep, ensuring not to cut too deeply into the meat. Scoring also helps the fat render out, creating a crispy, flavorful exterior.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The glaze should have a smooth, thick consistency. If you prefer a spicier glaze, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

Place the ham in a roasting pan. Using a basting brush, generously brush the glaze over the entire surface of the ham. Make sure to get the glaze into the scored cuts for maximum flavor. Reserve some glaze for basting during the baking process. For an extra layer of flavor, you can stud the ham with whole cloves, inserting them into the intersections of the scored lines.

Step 5: Bake the Ham

Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Bake the ham for 2 to 3 hours, or until it is heated through and the glaze has caramelized. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 140°F (60°C). If you prefer a more caramelized crust, remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Baste Occasionally

Every 30 minutes, remove the foil and baste the ham with the reserved glaze. This step ensures that the honey baked ham remains moist and flavorful. Re-cover the ham with foil after basting. Basting also helps build up layers of glaze, creating a beautiful, glossy finish.

Cutting the Ham

Once the honey baked ham is fully cooked and caramelized, it’s time to carve it. Here’s how to cut the ham in cross sections for an elegant presentation:

Let the Ham Rest: After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and easier to slice.
Place on Cutting Board: Transfer the ham to a large cutting board. Position the ham so that the flat side is facing down.
Slice Across the Grain: Using a sharp carving knife, make slices across the grain of the meat. Cutting across the grain ensures that each slice is tender and easy to chew. Aim for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick. For a more decorative presentation, you can cut the ham into thicker slices and then cut those slices into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
Serve: Arrange the slices on a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the slices for added flavor and a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This honey baked ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your holiday meal:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the savory-sweet flavors of the ham. For an extra touch, add roasted garlic or chives to the potatoes.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes adds color and nutrition to your plate. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them until tender and caramelized.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the ham glaze. You can make a simple cranberry sauce by simmering fresh cranberries with sugar and orange juice until they burst and thicken.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra glaze. Consider making homemade rolls for an extra special touch.

Tips for Success

Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the best flavor and texture. Spiral-cut hams are convenient but can dry out more easily, so be sure to baste them frequently.
Monitor the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Overcooking can lead to a dry ham.
Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients in the glaze. Maple syrup, orange juice, or even a splash of bourbon can add unique flavors.

Conclusion

Baking a honey baked ham with a delicious glaze is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a stunning centerpiece for your festive table. The combination of brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar creates a glaze that is both sweet and tangy, perfectly complementing the rich flavor of the ham. By scoring the ham and basting it regularly, you ensure that every bite is infused with flavor. Serve the ham with your favorite sides, and enjoy a memorable holiday meal.

Happy cooking and happy holidays!

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