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Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham to cook slowly and evenly, ensuring it remains moist and tender.
2. Prepare the Ham:
If you’ve purchased a pre-cooked ham (which most hams are), it will only need to be heated through. Start by removing the ham from the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
Next, remove the rind (if not already done by the butcher) and score the fat in a crisscross pattern. This step not only looks great but also helps the glaze penetrate the meat and gives you that delicious crispy outer layer.
3. Make the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, maple syrup (or honey), apple cider vinegar (or orange juice), cinnamon, and ground cloves. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity if needed, adding a little more sugar or vinegar based on your preference.
4. Apply the First Coat of Glaze:
Place the ham in a roasting pan, fat side up, and brush the entire surface with a generous amount of the glaze. Use a pastry brush to make sure every nook and cranny is covered. The glaze will melt and caramelize as the ham cooks, creating a beautiful and flavorful crust.
5. Bake the Ham:
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes (depending on the size of the ham), basting with the glaze every 30 minutes. This helps keep the ham moist and ensures the glaze develops a rich, caramelized finish.
6. Add the Final Glaze:
During the last 15-20 minutes of baking, remove the foil and give the ham a final glaze. Return the ham to the oven uncovered, allowing the glaze to set and caramelize. You should see the outer layer of the ham turn golden brown and crispy, which is exactly what you want!
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once the ham has reached an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) and is beautifully glazed, remove it from the oven. Let the ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that your ham remains moist and tender when cut.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the ham against the grain into thick or thin slices, depending on your preference. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a festive touch. Serve with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the delicious, melt-in-your-mouth flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ham Recipe:
- Juicy and Flavorful: The slow baking process ensures the ham stays juicy and tender, while the glaze adds a sweet and savory punch to every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few ingredients, you can make a ham that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The combination of mustard, brown sugar, and maple syrup or honey creates a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
- Impressive Presentation: The crisscrossed scored fat and the golden, caramelized glaze make this baked ham a showstopper on any dinner table. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress guests and make your meal feel extra special.
- Versatile: This baked ham is perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or even a weeknight meal. Leftovers can be used for sandwiches, salads, or even a comforting ham and potato soup.
- One-Pan Meal: The baked ham can be easily paired with simple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Baked Ham:
- Choose the Right Ham: Bone-in hams tend to have better flavor and moisture than boneless ones. Look for a ham that is labeled “fully cooked” or “ready-to-eat” to make your cooking process simpler.
- Baste Often: Basting the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes helps to build layers of flavor and gives you that rich, sticky crust on the outside. Don’t skip this step!
- Rest the Ham: Letting the ham rest before slicing helps keep the juices locked in, ensuring your slices are as tender and juicy as possible.
- Leftover Ham: Don’t let leftovers go to waste! You can use any remaining ham in sandwiches, omelets, casseroles, or even in soups. The flavor just gets better with time.
Conclusion:
This Baked Ham recipe is the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion or everyday meal. With its delicious glaze and juicy meat, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or simply want a savory and satisfying meal, this recipe hits all the right notes. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting, mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
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