Have you ever tasted a slice of baked ham so perfect that it feels like you’re biting into a piece of heaven itself? That’s how I felt the first time I cooked and tasted my own baked ham. It was a rich, savory exploration of flavors that satisfied my meat cravings like nothing else. Who said you have to wait until the holidays to enjoy such a treat?
Picture this: a succulent, juicy ham that’s been slow-cooked to perfection, with a golden-brown exterior that’s caramelized just right. The complex interplay between the sweetness of the glaze and the salty ham is akin to a symphony in your mouth. Isn’t it time to bring this savory symphony to your own kitchen?
The History of Baked Ham
Believe it or not, the tradition of baking a ham dates back to pre-Christian times. It began with the Germanic pagan tradition of sacrificing a wild boar to the god Freyr during the Yule celebrations. From there, it evolved and spread throughout different cultures, each adding their own unique twists to the recipe.
In the United States, for instance, baked ham became a staple of Easter and Christmas celebrations. The sweet and savory flavors of the dish paired with festive sides make it a timeless favourite. No wonder it has become a beloved tradition in many households, including mine.
Choosing the Right Ham
The key to a perfect baked ham starts with choosing the right meat. You can opt for either a fresh or cured ham, depending on your preference. Fresh hams are uncooked and unseasoned, providing a blank canvas for you to season according to your liking. On the other hand, cured hams come pre-cooked and seasoned, allowing for a quicker preparation time.
When shopping for a ham, look for a meat that’s pink and firm. Avoid those with excessive liquid in the packaging as this could indicate a low-quality product. Remember, the better the quality of your ham, the better your dish will turn out.
Making the Perfect Glaze
The glaze is what sets a good baked ham apart from a great one. It’s like the icing on a cake – it complements and enhances the flavor of the meat. There are countless glaze recipes out there, from honey mustard to brown sugar, allowing you to customize the flavor profile of your ham.
The trick to a great glaze is balance. You want a mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors to counterbalance the salty ham. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients until you find your perfect blend.
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in fully cooked ham, about 5 pounds
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F and position the rack in the lower third of the oven.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, mustard, honey, vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves to make the glaze.
- Brush the glaze over the ham, making sure to get into the scores.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees F. Glaze every 20 minutes.
- Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Rest Time: 15 minutes
Tips for Baked Ham
Always let your ham rest before carving to ensure the juices are redistributed throughout the meat and not lost on the cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carve the ham. This makes it easier to achieve thin, even slices. If you want a crispier exterior, increase the oven temperature during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This baked ham recipe is a game-changer. It delivers a perfectly cooked, juicy ham with a beautiful, caramelized exterior. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in the glaze complements the salty ham, promising a taste sensation in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 93mg
- Sodium: 1960mg
- Carbohydrate: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 17g
- Protein: 33g