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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). If you’re using a convection oven, reduce the temperature to 300°F (150°C).
2. Prepare the Ham:
- If you’re using a bone-in ham, make sure to score the surface in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. This helps the glaze penetrate and creates that beautiful caramelized look.
- Place the ham on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can place the ham directly in the pan, but a rack helps the heat circulate evenly.
3. Make the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and black pepper.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.
4. Coat the Ham:
- Brush the ham generously with about half of the glaze, making sure to coat the surface and get the glaze into the scored areas.
- Tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
5. Bake the Ham:
- Bake the ham for 15-18 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for a pre-cooked ham. If using a raw ham, it may take longer—around 20-25 minutes per pound—and should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Baste the ham with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes to build up layers of flavor and caramelization. If you prefer a more intense glaze, you can increase the heat to 425°F (220°C) during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to bubble and form a crispy crust. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Rest the Ham:
- Once the ham reaches the desired temperature and is beautifully glazed, remove it from the oven. Tent it with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring the ham stays moist and tender.
7. Carve and Serve:
- After resting, carve the ham by slicing along the bone (if bone-in) or slicing against the grain into desired portions. Serve with your favorite sides and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Baked ham pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are some delicious sides that complement baked ham:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of baked ham.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a colorful and flavorful addition.
- Macaroni and Cheese: The richness of macaroni and cheese adds a comforting, cheesy contrast to the ham.
- Crispy Salad: A light, tangy green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the ham and cuts through the sweetness of the glaze.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra glaze or gravy on the plate.
Tips for Success
🌟 Use a Meat Thermometer: For the best results, always check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer to ensure it is perfectly cooked and not overdone.
🌟 Glaze Variations: Customize the glaze to suit your tastes. You can swap the maple syrup for brown sugar and mustard, add orange juice or pineapple for a fruitier glaze, or even try a touch of bourbon for a smoky twist.
🌟 Leftover Ham: If you have leftovers, baked ham makes a great addition to sandwiches, salads, or casseroles. It’s also excellent chopped and added to soups or pasta dishes. Be sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
🌟 Boneless Ham: If you use a boneless ham, it’s typically easier to carve, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster than bone-in ham. Be sure to check the internal temperature as it may cook more quickly.
Why This Recipe Works
This baked ham recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The glaze brings together sweet, tangy, and savory notes that complement the richness of the ham, while the slow-baking process ensures the meat remains juicy and tender. The caramelized, golden-brown crust gives it that irresistible, crispy exterior that everyone loves, while the interior stays moist and flavorful.
Whether you’re serving it for a festive meal or a family dinner, this baked ham recipe guarantees a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s easy to prepare, looks stunning on the table, and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides.
Final Thoughts
Baked ham is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. Its simplicity, combined with the delicious, caramelized glaze, makes it a favorite for family gatherings, holidays, or any occasion that calls for something special. So the next time you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare, turn to this baked ham recipe—you won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy every tender, flavorful bite! 🍖✨
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