Fall recipes

Juicy Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Are you ready to impress your guests with a delectable dish? Look no further than our step-by-step guide on how to make a succulent glazed ham. This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors to create a masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. From prepping the ham to creating the perfect glaze, we’ll walk you through each step to ensure your ham turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients You Need:

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering glazed ham:

8-10 pound (4-5 kg) bone-in fully cooked ham
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup unsalted butter, reduced fat or full fat
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
4 cloves garlic, smashed

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep and Rest the Ham:

Preheat the oven to 300°F | 150°C and arrange a rack in the lower third.
Remove any plastic packaging or netting from the ham.
Trim away the rind and discard. Set the ham aside to rest at room temperature for 1-2 hours.

2. Prepare the Ham:

Remove the rind or skin of the ham, ensuring you leave the fat on.
Use a sharp knife to score a 1-inch-wide diamond pattern over the entire ham (not more than 1/4 inch deep).

3. Initial Baking:

Line a baking tray or dish with several sheets of aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Place the ham in the baking tray and pour 1/3 cup of water into the base of the pan.
Cover the ham with two pieces of foil or parchment paper and bake for 30 minutes.

4. Prepare the Glaze:

While the ham bakes, heat the butter in a small pot or saucepan over medium heat until golden browned.
Add in the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves.
Stir well until the brown sugar has completely dissolved (about 2 minutes).

5. Add Flavorful Touches:

Reduce the heat to low and add in the smashed garlic.
Allow it to become fragrant, cooking for an additional minute or two until the glaze simmers.
Set it aside and let it cool to lukewarm; the glaze should have the consistency of room-temperature honey.

6. Glaze and Bake:

After 30 minutes of baking time, carefully remove the ham from the oven.
Increase the oven temperature to 425°F | 220°C.
Discard the foil or parchment paper covering the ham.
Pour 1/3 of the glaze all over the ham, brushing between the cuts to evenly cover it.

7. Create the Crust:

Return the ham to the oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes.
Remove the ham from the oven and brush with another third of the glaze and some pan juices.
Repeat the glazing process after another 15 minutes of baking.

8. Final Touches:

If the crust is still pink after the suggested baking time, turn on your broiler and allow it to broil for 2-5 minutes.
Keep an eye on it to prevent burning from the sugar.
Let the ham rest for 10-20 minutes before slicing.

Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the best way to score the ham? A: Use a sharp knife to create a 1-inch-wide diamond pattern over the ham’s surface. Be careful not to cut more than 1/4 inch deep to ensure the ham retains its moisture.

Q: Can I use a different type of mustard for the glaze? A: Absolutely! While Dijon mustard adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with your preferred type of mustard for a personalized touch.

Q: How do I achieve a deep golden-brown crust? A: To achieve the perfect crust, make sure to follow the glazing and baking process as directed. Mixing ham pan juices with the glaze also adds depth of flavor and helps achieve the desired consistency.

Q: Can I prepare the glaze in advance? A: While it’s best to prepare the glaze close to the time of baking, you can make it in advance and warm it up when needed. Just ensure it’s lukewarm before brushing it onto the ham.

Q: Should I cover the ham with foil while baking? A: Initially, covering the ham with foil helps keep it moist. However, for the final stages of baking, it’s best to remove the foil to allow the crust to develop.

Q: Can I use this glaze recipe for other dishes? A: Absolutely! This versatile glaze can be used to enhance the flavor of other meats, such as turkey or pork roast. Experiment and enjoy the delicious results!

Creating a mouth-watering glazed ham is easier than you think! By following our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to craft a delicious and impressive dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. From scoring the ham to preparing the irresistible glaze, each step plays a crucial role in achieving a delectable result. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the delightful flavors of this classic dish.

Remember, whether it’s a festive feast or a casual gathering, this glazed ham recipe is sure to be a hit. So, why wait? Give it a try and treat your taste buds to something truly exceptional!