There’s something timeless about a well-cooked baked ham. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a special Sunday dinner, or just craving that mouthwatering combination of sweet and salty, a baked ham with a brown sugar glaze is the answer. Today, we’ll journey together through the steps to create the perfect baked ham, while also giving you insider tips to optimize flavor and presentation.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Ham
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s chat about ham selection. Ideally, you’d want a bone-in, spiral-sliced ham. Bone-in guarantees depth of flavor, while the spiral slice ensures easy serving. When shopping, aim for a ham that’s labeled “fully cooked,” which means it only requires reheating.
Ingredients:
- 1 spiral-sliced bone-in ham (about 7 to 10 pounds)
- ¾ cup of packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup of pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves
Directions:
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham, cut-side down, in a roasting pan. Cover it with foil and let it bake for an hour.
- Craft the Glaze: While the ham is baking, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves, about 2-3 minutes. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Glazing Time: After the ham has baked for an hour, remove it from the oven. Brush the top and sides of the ham generously with half of your glaze.
- Final Stretch: Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 30 minutes. Take it out, brush with the remaining glaze, and let it bake for another 15 minutes, or until the ham is golden brown and caramelized.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meat.
The Secrets Behind the Perfect Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe
There’s more to a perfect recipe than just measuring ingredients accurately. Let’s unravel some lesser-known secrets that can elevate your baked ham with brown sugar glaze (or any dish, really) from ordinary to exceptional:
- High-Quality Ingredients: Investing in fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference. For instance, using pure maple syrup rather than artificial alternatives delivers a richer flavor.
- Understand Your Oven: Every oven has its quirks. It’s essential to know hot spots, how long it takes to reach the desired temperature, and if the temperature set is accurate. This ensures even cooking and perfect results.
- Resting Time: Allowing your ham (or any meat) to rest after cooking lets the juices redistribute. This step ensures every slice is juicy and tender.
- Trust Your Senses: While timings are a great guideline, use your senses. The alluring aroma, the caramelized glaze’s golden hue, and the ham’s internal temperature are crucial indicators.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make the glaze in advance?
A: Absolutely! The brown sugar glaze can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it up slightly before applying to the ham.
Q2: How long should I store leftover ham?
A: Leftover ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly in foil or stored in an airtight container.
Q3: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
A: Yes, honey is a fantastic alternative to maple syrup. It offers a slightly different flavor profile, but it complements the ham beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
To truly impress your guests and create a balanced meal, consider these serving suggestions to accompany your baked ham with brown sugar glaze:
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes complements the ham’s sweetness.
- Fresh Salad: A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
- Bread Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover glaze and pair wonderfully with slices of ham.
- Drinks Pairing: A crisp white wine or a light beer balances the ham’s saltiness and the glaze’s sweetness.
- Dessert: Consider a light dessert like a lemon sorbet or a fruit tart to end the meal on a refreshing note.
Remember, the magic of any recipe lies in the hands of the cook. Your personal touches and attention to detail will always shine through. Enjoy the culinary journey!
