The Highlight of My Christmas Every Year: A Festive Recipe That Smells as Good as It Tastes

Directions:

1. Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place your ham in a roasting pan and score the top in a criss-cross pattern. This will allow the glaze to penetrate the meat, making it even more flavorful.
2. Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or orange juice), cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly.
3. Glaze the Ham: Brush a generous amount of the glaze over the ham, making sure to get into all the scored areas. Reserve some glaze for basting during the cooking process.
4. Bake the Ham: Roast the ham in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours (or follow the recommended cooking time based on the weight of your ham). Every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the remaining glaze to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful.
5. Serve and Garnish: Once the ham is golden brown and caramelized, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for a festive touch.
6. Enjoy: Serve with your favorite sides and watch as your guests marvel at the aroma, taste, and beauty of this holiday centerpiece.

Why This Recipe is a Christmas Winner

• It’s Easy Yet Impressive: This recipe is simple to prepare, but the end result is nothing short of spectacular. The sweetness from the brown sugar and honey balances beautifully with the savory flavors of the ham, creating a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The beauty of this recipe is that it’s not just for Christmas Day. Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, soups, or even added to breakfast dishes like omelets and quiches. It’s a versatile meal that keeps on giving.
• Perfectly Paired with Festive Sides: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or your favorite holiday sides for a full festive feast that will delight all your guests.

Other Holiday Favorites

While this recipe might take center stage on your Christmas table, don’t forget to complement it with other holiday favorites that bring the season to life. A classic pumpkin pie, gingerbread cookies, or cranberry sauce can be the perfect sweet and tangy balance to the savory richness of your main dish.

Creating Memorable Moments

What makes Christmas truly special isn’t just the food itself—it’s the memories made while preparing it, sharing it with loved ones, and enjoying each bite. With a dish that’s as fragrant as it is delicious, your home will be filled with the magic of the season. As you gather around the table, you’ll know that this is the highlight of your Christmas—a meal that’s more than just food, but a moment to savor and cherish year after year.

Whether it’s the smell of your favorite holiday ham, the joy of sharing a meal with those you love, or the simple act of making a cherished tradition, this recipe is sure to become the highlight of your Christmas too. Enjoy and have a Merry Christmas!