Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature ensures the ham cooks evenly without drying out.
- Prepare the Ham:
- Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. If your ham has a thick layer of fat, score the surface in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to penetrate and create a crispy exterior. If desired, stud the scored sections with whole cloves for added flavor and presentation.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is well combined and heated through, creating a smooth glaze.
- Glaze the Ham:
- Place the ham, cut side down, on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush a generous amount of the glaze all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get into the scored cuts for maximum flavor. Reserve some glaze for basting later.
- Bake the Ham:
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the ham. Plan for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound. Baste the ham with the reserved glaze every 30 minutes, removing the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and develop a beautiful, shiny crust.
- Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C). Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the ham against the grain and arrange it on a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the slices and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a vibrant salad.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Ham
- Choosing Your Ham: Opt for a bone-in ham for richer flavor and moisture. Look for hams that are labeled “fully cooked” for convenience.
- Storage: Leftover baked ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Slice or cube the ham for easy additions to sandwiches, salads, or casseroles.
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to experiment with different glazes! Consider adding pineapple juice, maple syrup, or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your baked ham with classic sides like green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, or cornbread for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Baked ham is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can elevate any meal. Its tender, juicy meat combined with a sweet and savory glaze creates a memorable dining experience for family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal, this baked ham recipe will surely delight your palate and leave everyone asking for more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to impress with this delightful baked ham!
