What To Know
- Place the glazed ham in a roasting pan and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- If the glaze is too thick to spread, add a splash of orange juice or water to thin it out.
- Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a grand feast, this best simple glaze for ham will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser.
When it comes to holiday feasts, a perfectly glazed ham takes center stage. If you’re seeking an effortless yet delectable glaze, look no further! This blog post will guide you through creating the best simple glaze for ham that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and score the fat in a diamond pattern.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine all the glaze ingredients. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
3. Glaze the Ham: Pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it coats the entire surface. You can use a brush to spread the glaze evenly.
4. Bake the Ham: Place the glazed ham in a roasting pan and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Let Rest: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy ham.
Enhancing the Flavor
- Add a Touch of Spice: For a slightly spicy glaze, add 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger or cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture.
- Experiment with Herbs: Instead of rosemary, try using fresh thyme, sage, or a blend of herbs for a unique flavor profile.
- Use Different Citrus: Swap the orange juice for pineapple juice, apple cider, or even white wine to create a variety of glaze flavors.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Glaze Too Thick: If the glaze is too thick to spread, add a splash of orange juice or water to thin it out.
- Glaze Too Thin: If the glaze is too thin, simmer it for a few minutes longer to reduce it.
- Ham Not Glazing: If the glaze is not sticking to the ham, increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C).
The Perfect Finishing Touch
A simple glaze can transform an ordinary ham into an extraordinary centerpiece. The combination of sweet, tangy, and aromatic flavors will leave your guests wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a grand feast, this best simple glaze for ham will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: What type of ham should I use?
A: A spiral-cut ham is recommended for even cooking and easy glazing.
Q: Can I use a different sweetener?
A: You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the glaze.
Q: How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
A: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil during the last 30 minutes of baking to prevent the glaze from burning.
Q: Can I freeze the glazed ham?
A: Yes, you can freeze the glazed ham for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating it.
