Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a brown sugar glazed ham that is perfect for any festive occasion or family gathering. This recipe provides a beautiful blend of sweet and savory flavors, resulting in a mouthwatering centerpiece that will impress your guests. With its stunning golden glaze and rich aroma, this ham will be a hit at your table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4–6 kg (8–12 lb) bone-in ham, rind and fat on
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
3/4 teaspoon mustard powder
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
2 cups water
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Few sprigs of rosemary (or other herbs/leaves)
Ribbon (for presentation)
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1.5–2 hours
Total Time: 2–2.5 hours
Yield: Serves 10–12 people
Enjoy your delicious brown sugar glazed ham!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
– Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan.
– Using a sharp knife, score the rind in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1 cm deep.
Glaze
– In a bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and mustard powder.
– In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and allspice. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
– Add the mustard mixture to the saucepan and stir to combine.
– Remove from heat and set aside.
Baking
– Pour 2 cups of water into the roasting pan to prevent drippings from burning.
– Brush the ham generously with the glaze.
– Place the ham in the oven and bake for 1.5–2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
– If the glaze starts to burn, cover the ham loosely with foil.
Finishing
– Once the ham is cooked through and has a deep golden color, remove it from the oven.
– Let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.
– Garnish with rosemary sprigs and tie a ribbon around the shank for presentation.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
– Serve the ham with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Storage
– Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Tips
– To reheat, cover the ham with foil and warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) until heated through.
Variations
– Feel free to experiment with different spices or glazes, such as adding cloves or using orange juice in the glaze.
Cook techniques
Scoring the Ham
Scoring the rind in a diamond pattern not only enhances the appearance but also allows the glaze to penetrate the surface, resulting in a more flavorful and sticky crust.
Making the Glaze
Combine the Dijon mustard and mustard powder with brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and allspice over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, creating a smooth and rich glaze that will caramelize beautifully while baking.
Basting
Basting the ham every 30 minutes with the glaze is essential to keep it moist and to create a beautiful, caramelized exterior. Remember to cover loosely with foil if the glaze begins to burn.
Using Water in the Roasting Pan
Pouring water into the roasting pan helps prevent drippings from burning and also creates steam, which keeps the ham moist during the baking process.
Resting the Ham
Letting the ham rest for 15 minutes after removing it from the oven allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is juicy and full of flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of mustard for the glaze?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of mustard, such as yellow mustard, but it may alter the flavor profile slightly.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) for a minimum of 15 minutes.
Can I prepare the ham in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ham and apply the glaze in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it when needed.
What can I do with the leftover ham?
Leftover ham can be shredded or sliced and used in sandwiches, salads, soups, or casseroles.
How should I store leftover glazed ham?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Conclusion
The brown sugar glazed ham is a delightful centerpiece for any meal, infusing rich flavors from the sweet and spicy glaze. With its beautiful presentation adorned with herbs and a ribbon, this dish not only satisfies the palate but also enhances the dining experience. Perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings, the preparation may seem extensive, but the result is undeniably worth the effort. Enjoy the juicy, tender meat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Recipe Suggestions with Leftover Ham
– Ham and cheese sandwiches: Layer leftover ham with your favorite cheeses on crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
– Ham and pea soup: Use the ham bone and meat to create a hearty and comforting soup with peas and vegetables.
– Breakfast hash: Sauté diced potatoes, bell peppers, and onions, then fold in chopped ham for a delicious breakfast option.
– Ham salad: Combine diced ham with mayo, mustard, celery, and seasoning for a tasty sandwich spread or appetizer.
Combination Ideas
– Pair with roasted vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes for a balanced meal.
– Complement with a fresh salad: A light salad with mixed greens, apple slices, walnuts, and a vinaigrette can enhance the flavors of the ham.
– Serve with scalloped potatoes: The creaminess of scalloped potatoes pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the glazed ham.
– Accompany with cranberry sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with the ham’s sweetness for an added layer of flavor.
Herb Variations
– Thyme: Use sprigs of thyme instead of rosemary for a different herbal flavor.
– Sage: Incorporate sage leaves for a more earthy taste, perfect for fall feasts.
– Mint: Fresh mint sprigs can provide a refreshing twist to the presentation of the dish.
– Bay leaves: Add bay leaves to the roasting pan for subtle enhancements in aroma and taste.
