How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Glazed Ham
If you’re searching for a delectable and impressive dish to wow your family and friends, look no further than our guide on making a Brown Sugar Pineapple Glazed Ham. This succulent smoked carver ham, coated with a luscious brown sugar pineapple glaze, promises a symphony of flavors that will elevate any gathering. In this article, we will walk you through the entire process, from crafting the mouthwatering sauce to perfectly baking the ham. Get ready to become a culinary superstar and create a memorable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You Need:
- 1 pre-cooked smoked carver ham
- 1 cup homemade brown sugar
- 1/2 cup cranberry pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice from the slices
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pineapple slices
- Maraschino cherries
- Aluminum foil
Step by Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the homemade brown sugar, cranberry pineapple juice, pineapple juice from the slices, and ground cloves. Stir vigorously until the brown sugar dissolves completely, creating a luscious glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess.
- Slice and Prepare the Ham: Carefully slice the pre-cooked smoked carver ham into thin, even slices. Lay the slices in a baking pan, creating an even layer of ham goodness.
- Coat with Sauce and Fruit: Generously drizzle the prepared sauce over the ham slices, ensuring they are coated evenly. Arrange the pineapple slices and maraschino cherries atop the ham, adding vibrant colors and complementary flavors.
- Cover and Bake: Gently cover the ham pan with aluminum foil, securing it tightly. This will create a steamy environment that ensures the ham remains tender and moist during baking. Pierce a few holes in the foil to allow steam to escape. Place the covered ham in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). Let it bake for 45 minutes to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the ham to absorb the wonderful glaze.
- Glaze and Final Touch: After the initial baking time, carefully remove the aluminum foil, revealing the beautifully glazed ham. Prepare a homemade cranberry orange sauce and generously brush it over the ham. This final touch will enhance the flavors and create an enticing, glossy finish. Return the ham to the oven for an additional five minutes. This short burst of baking time will caramelize the glaze and create a deliciously irresistible exterior.
- Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Once rested, transfer the ham slices to a serving platter, arranging them alongside the pineapple slices and maraschino cherries. The result is a masterpiece of taste and presentation that will delight all who feast upon it.
How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Glazed Ham
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for pre-cooked smoked carver ham, you can adapt it to your preference. Just ensure that the ham you choose is fully cooked and ready to be glazed and baked.
Is there a substitute for cranberry pineapple juice?
Certainly! If you can’t find cranberry pineapple juice, you can use regular pineapple juice or even apple juice. The goal is to achieve a balanced sweet-tangy flavor profile.
How can I make the glaze more or less sweet?
Adjust the sweetness of the glaze by varying the amount of brown sugar you use. For a sweeter glaze, increase the brown sugar; for a milder sweetness, decrease it slightly.
Can I make the cranberry orange sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before using it to glaze the ham.
What side dishes pair well with Brown Sugar Pineapple Glazed Ham?
This ham pairs wonderfully with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and green bean casserole. The sweet and savory flavors of the ham will complement a variety of accompaniments.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned slices?
Certainly! Fresh pineapple slices can be a fantastic addition to this dish. Just ensure they are ripe and juicy to achieve the best flavor balance.
Congratulations, you’ve just embarked on a culinary adventure that promises to delight your senses and impress your guests! This Brown Sugar Pineapple Glazed Ham recipe is a labor of love that harmonizes sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors into a mouthwatering masterpiece. From crafting the homemade sauce to carefully baking the ham to perfection, every step contributes to the final symphony of taste that awaits. So roll up your sleeves, follow our detailed guide, and prepare to savor the rewards of your culinary prowess. Get ready to bask in the praises of those fortunate enough to enjoy your delicious creation!
